Adopt-A-Child Tree is Back!

ADOPT-A-CHILD TREE

October 6 - 27, 2024

During the month of October, empower our foster families by donating $25 Walmart gift cards to make this Christmas a memorable one! Donate online and we’ll purchase gift cards on your behalf!


You can join us and let foster families in Leavenworth County and Atchison County know that we are for them by giving them $25.00 gift cards to help them buy gifts for the children they have brought into their home. Being a foster family is a huge calling and we want them to feel our love and be encouraged this Christmas.

The Adopt-A-Child Christmas tree will be in the back of the Church with Donation Tags on the tree limbs beginning on October 6. Take a tag and donate in $25 increments in Walmart gift cards. Bring the tag and the card(s) back by Sunday, October 27. There will be a basket by the tree to collect the tags and cards.

Donations can also be made on our website or app by October 31 and we will purchase the gift cards for you. All donations will be used to help foster families provide Christmas gifts for their foster children.

For more information or for questions, contact Caroline Webster at cwebster@westsideleavenworth.com.

Meet Patty Cogswell!

Hey Westside Family! 

I was so excited to announce last Sunday that we have hired our Counseling Director, Patty Cogswell. Now I want to introduce her to you. Patty and I sat down together this week so you could learn more about her. You can watch that conversation below. 

Patty has already begun to lay a foundation to build a healthy, robust, and thriving counseling ministry that will primarily serve our church family and eventually grow into serving our cities.  

Thank you for praying for this desired position for over two years! AND, thank you for faithfully giving to Westside in this UNSHAKEABLE initiative. Please continue to pray as we wrap God's family around those in their point of pain. AND, please continue to faithfully give. Your generosity has made this possible and will continue to make it possible to minister to those who are suffering emotionally, mentally, and relationally for years to come.  

I'm so grateful to be on this mission together with you. 

In Christ, we are UNSHAKEABLE!

Kasey Robinson

Sign up for BlessEveryHome.com

Sign up for BlessEveryHome.com and receive an email or push notification every day to pray for 5 of your neighbors. You can sign up to pray for as many neighbors as you desire. You will receive a daily prayer and scripture that you can use to pray for them. Once you pray for them, click “Pray.”

You will also be notified when a new neighbor moves into your neighborhood. This gives you the opportunity to show God’s love by accepting them into your neighborhood. You may even get the opportunity to invite them to come to your group or a church service.

Continue to pray for opportunities to BLESS your neighbors.

Begin with prayer (God, in whose life are you working, and how can I join You there?)
Listen and engage.
Eat.
Serve.
Story.

Make sure you follow along with our Everyone Everywhere series to learn how to make the BLESS rhythm a part of your daily life.

Invite someone: At the Movies is June 9-30

Jesus used culturally relevant stories to timeless truths about the Kingdom of God. We are using million dollar stories to share the kingdom truths of the gospel. This is a great time to come, to invite, and to see God transform your life and someone else’s life.

Re-stream Availalbility

These teachings will not be available on demand. You can only experience At the Movies while at a service on site or at church online. We will re-stream the services regularly at church online. Invite your friends and family to watch it there if they cannot join us on site.

Weekly Movies

June 6: Spider-man: No Way Home
June 16: The Martian (Father’s Day)
June 23: Wonka
June 30: A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood

Each week, you will receive notes that will share the kingdom truths that lead us to know God and follow Jesus so you can experience the full life He wants for you. Those notes and cue sheets will be posted weekly on our “messages” page

Invite others

Save the images below to your device to send to others and invite them to join you.

What will the services be like?

Here are the exciting things that will be different during “At the Movies.”

MESSAGES: We will still have engaging preaching that will inspire and challenge you to grow in your faith and follow Jesus. We will use movie clips to share biblical truths to lead you to grow in your faith and follow Jesus—but the gospel won’t change. You will receive notes with a “Talk-it-over” so you can talk with a friend or your family and follow Jesus together.

We will continue to sing songs that focus our hearts and minds on God and have times where we pray together so we can share Jesus with one another.

POPCORN: That irresistible buttery popcorn will be FREE and you can eat as much as you want. We know it will be before lunch, but we know popcorn is awesome regardless what time of day it is.

MIDDLE & HIGH SCHOOL VIP SECTION & WRAP PARTY: Middle & High School students are invited to our VIP Section. You’ll know exactly where it’s at! Plus, all Middle & High School students are invited to a “Wrap” party in the Loft with snacks and drinks right after each service. This party will be about 15 minutes and then students will be released to go home. So parents, please plan to stay a little extra so your student may connect with others their age.

Middle School Services & High School Underground

We will not have Middle School Services or High School Underground during At the Movies. Make sure they join our VIP experience! We will also not have MS/HS services on July 3 or July 7. Services will resume on July 10.

Start the Party with Us at This Year's KiDSGiG VBS!

This summer, July 29-August 2 (5:30p-7:30p), Westside Leavenworth's KiDSGiG (VBS) invites children to join in the most joyous celebration of the summer. Themed "Start the Party," the program is set to transform traditional vacation bible school into a dynamic, week-long festivity filled with lessons on friendship, belonging, forgiveness, abundant life, and purpose.

"Start the Party" isn't just a theme, however; it's a call to celebrate the unparalleled joy that comes from knowing Jesus. Recognizing that the Gospel is the best news ever, we’ve has designed a VBS that makes biblical truths accessible and engaging for children through festivities of faith, fun, and fellowship.

The KiDSGiG curriculum promises a comprehensive experience, equipping KiDS for a memorable week. It includes detailed programming and activity plans suitable for various groups, ensuring that every child feels included. Moreover, the curriculum is thoughtfully crafted to accommodate kids with special needs, guaranteeing an inclusive environment where every participant can enjoy the celebration.

Children attending KiDSGiG will explore these significant themes:

  • Friendship: Learning the value of building strong, supportive relationships.

  • Belonging: Understanding their place within their communities and the larger world.

  • Forgiveness: Discovering the power of grace and starting anew.

  • Abundant Life: Embracing the fullness of life offered through faith.

  • Purpose: Finding meaning and direction in a life guided by faith.

We’re excited to not only offer a spectacular week but to close out a summer filled with celebrations of faith and a love for Jesus! “Start the Party” promises to be an uplifting, enriching experience that children will carry with them long after summer fades.

Parents and guardians interested in registering their children in KiDSGiG can look forward to a program that doesn't just entertain but also deeply enriches. We invite you to "Start the Party" this summer and join a community celebrating the greatest story ever told!

Invite others to the Party! Share this image on social media!

KiDS Promotion Sunday is June 2

We will be promoting our KiDS on June 5th. All of our K-5th graders will be transitioning to their next age group. For our PreKs, they will promote based on their birthday. Outgoing 5th Graders will promote to the Middles School Service at 9:30am on Sundays.

We want to make this as easy of a transition for your KiDS. If you have any concerns about your child, please contact our Family Team.

Caroline Webster (Early Childhood Minister): cwebster@westsideleavenworth.com

Jenni Keltner (Grade School Minister): jkeltner@westsideleavenworth.com

Caleb Klinger (Middle & High School Minister): cklinger@westsideleavenworth.com

New Series: Wilderness of Loneliness Begins Apr 7

Many people are struggling with loneliness. Loneliness isn't necessarily a problem with you nor does it mean something is wrong with you. Loneliness is a reminder that something is wrong in our world. In our busy, crowded world, many are in a wilderness of loneliness and they want out. In this series, we will see what scripture has to say to the lonely and how the gospel brings hope to the lonely.

Save the images to your device to invite others to our new series, “The Wilderness of Loneliness.”

KC Shooting: Resources for You

ONE: Talk with someone.

Click below to talk with someone ASAP.

TWO: Text 913-297-9707 for prayer

Text 913-297-9707 to pray with someone via text message

THREE: Our building is open from 6-8pm for reflection, prayer, and worship.

Please feel free to come and find a safe space to pray, reflect, or just sit to process what happened yesterday.

FOUR: Position yourself to listen to someone who’s impacted, love them, and pray for them.

Many kids and teenagers have been impacted by the shooting. Download the resource below to see how you can talk with a child or teen about what they may be experiencing. Please feel free to contact us if you need to connect a child or teenager with a counselor.

Grow in a Group

Our faith grows when we engage scripture and engage in community. We have some great opportunities for you to connect and grow with us!

Connect & Grow

Explore which of these four different groups will best help you grow in your faith

LifeGroups

LifeGroups will kick off the week of February 18. We will have several options for you to choose. Groups will follow our Matthew Series. During each of the 6-7 weeks, groups will watch excerpts directly from the Gospel of Matthew and then discuss five questions together. This is a great opportunity to invite friends and family who may be curious about Jesus or Scripture. Want to lead a LifeGroup? Click here.

Rooted Discipleship Experience

Rooted is a discipleship journey where you will experience life transformation. This 10-week journey will lead you into seven disciplines that will grow your faith. Learn more and sign up here.

Grief Share (Care Group)

GriefShare is for those who are suffering and managing their pain from loss. Life gets complicated when we lose a loved one, a dream, an opportunity, or a relationship. The people in GriefShare want to come alongside you. GriefShare begins Jan 22. Sign up here.

Celebrate Recovery (Care Group)

Do you have a habit or a hangup in life that you just cannot overcome? Celebrate Recovery will give you the tools you need to live in the freedom God’s given you through Jesus Christ. This community is celebrating their lives of freedom together and want to come alongside you so your story can become a freedom story. Learn more here.


GroupLink is Jan 28 & Feb 4

We will have GroupLink on January 28 & February 4. Group leaders from all the groups above will be available at the end of each service to answer your questions and get you connected to their group.

For more questions about groups, contact Joe Klassen (jklassen@westsideleavenworth.com)

Weather Update: One Service on Jan 14 at 9:30am

One Service | 9:30am

Due to inclement weather, we are adjusting our schedule for tomorrow, January 14, 2024. There will be ONE SERVICE at 9:30am. 
All KiDS and Middle School services will be open. 

Your safety is our priority.
Please carefully consider the weather conditions and make the best decision for you and your family. If you choose to attend in person, please exercise caution while walking on the parking lot. 

Alternatively, you can join us for Church Online, live at 9:30 am.
Also, get access to notes, streaming resources, and materials for KiDS.

Help us share this update. Copy the images below to your device and share on social, text, or email. 

We look forward to being with you for the start of our new series, whether on-site or online. Stay safe!



Current Series:
Life's Toxic Game of Fame and Shame

We continue our series tomorrow. We all struggle with the inclination to promote ourselves. This is a response out of insecurity. Come and learn how our desire to make a name for ourselves is something that humanity has dealt with for a long time—and it is toxic. 

 
 

Celebrating Christmas, NYE, and more

Celebrating Christmas Together!

`December 24

8:15, 9:30, or 11:00am

We are excited to celebrate Christmas with you this Sunday. Please consider inviting someone. We baptized someone last Sunday who was first invited to our church by a friend. There are people in whom God is working, and an invitation from you may be what they need to come.

Save the image below to your device to share by text or social. We will have KiDS services for 6-weeks to kindergarten.

Please consider attending our 8:15 or 11:00am service to make room at our 9:30am service for those who are bringing guests. 
I hope to see you on site or join you online.


New Year's Eve Services

December 31
8:15, 9:30, or 11:00am

Let’s close the year out right… together loving Jesus, becoming like Jesus, and sharing Jesus. We will have KiDS environments open for kindergarten and under. All other KiDS, Middle, and High School Students will join us in the service.


Year End Giving

We are so grateful for those who faithfully give our advance God's mission and kingdom through our church!

For those who are wanting to make an end of your gift, you may give online, in a service, or by mail before January 1, 2024 (mail must be postmarked Dec 31 or earlier).


21 Days of Fasting + Prayer + Scripture

Start the year off becoming the best you by becoming more like Jesus. I invite you to join me in a 21-day challenge of fasting, prayer, and reading scripture. Learn more or join me by clicking the link below.

Big Give + Your Opportunity to Serve

Give now through Dec 3!

On December 3, we will have our Big Give during all of our services at Westside. However, if it is more convenient, you may give online now!

As our church family prays about what God will lead them to give, Westside has committed to give away the first $50,000 of this weekend’s offering away to organizations in Leavenworth County that are reaching the lost, caring for the least, or serving the last. We are committed to building an Unshakeable Faith and releasing God’s Unshakeable Love.


Don’t just give… Serve!
Wrapping God’s Family around those at their point of pain

We have opportunities where you can serve in our community.

Community of Hope Night Shelter: Serve a 3-hour shift at the night shelter.

Project Sunshine: Greet Richard Warren Intermediate students as they come to school.

Saturday Community Meals: Serve a meal and help defeat weekend hunger.

Westside Meet the Need: Receive emails when a family is in need of a meal. You can sign up to provide dinner.

Weather Update: One Service at 9:30am (Nov 26)

Due to anticipated inclement weather, we are adjusting our schedule for tomorrow, November 26, 2023. There will be a single service at 9:30 am, and we invite all ages in Kindergarten and above to join us in the main service. Classes will be available for children aged 6 weeks to PreK.

Your safety is our priority, so please carefully consider the conditions and make the best decision for you and your family.

If you choose to attend in person, please park in the south parking lot and exercise caution while walking. Alternatively, you can join us for Church Online, live at 9:30 am. Click the link below for access to notes, streaming resources, and materials for KiDS.

We look forward to being with you for the start of our new series, whether on-site or online. Stay safe!


Thank you for helping us spread this update. Copy an image below to your device and share it via social, text, or email.

3 Big Things for You this Thanksgiving!

Celebration + BiG GiVE Sunday
December 3 (All Services)

We will celebrate our commitment to build Unshakeable Faith by releasing an Unshakeable Love.
Please be praying about what God may lead you to give. We will give the first $50,000 of Dec 3rd's offering away to organizations in Leavenworth County who are reaching the lost, serving the last, and caring for the least.

Make Your Unshakeable Midpoint Commitment

1. Commit to finish strong.
2. Join us and make a new commitment.
3. Increase your Unshakeable commitment.


Jingle Jam
December 8, 6:00-7:30pm

It's a KiDS party that's BIG enough for parents too!


Thank you for being on this mission together with us.
In Christ, we are Unshakeable!

A Christian's Response to Israel Vs Hamas

Pastor Kasey has written a heartfelt expression of his perspective on the conflicts in the Middle East, centered around our Christian faith and the teachings of Jesus. This is a preview of what may be published in the Leavenworth Times on October 21, 2023.


By Kasey Robinson (Lead Pastor at Westside Family Church in Leavenworth, KS, westsideleavenworth.com). Exclusively for The Leavenworth Times (October 21, 2023 Pastor’s Corner)

 

A Christian’s Response to Israel and Hamas

There are various opinions regarding the heartbreaking pictures and stories emerging from the Middle East. As Christians, it is essential to maintain a biblical worldview that guides our prayers and provides hope amid these tragic events. I write this not as a theological discourse but as a guide for those Christians who are unsure about how to respond and pray.

The only true answer to these conflicts that will lead to lasting peace is not found in war or policy. Instead, it lies within the Kingdom of God that Jesus established through His life, suffering, death, and resurrection.

The world is in need of a new humanity that possesses a renewed way of thinking and living, firmly rooted in the truth of Jesus Christ. The Kingdom of God represents this new humanity, which submits to Jesus as the one True King and has accepted Him as their Savior. This is how God's Kingdom is established in our world – by transforming people's thought processes through His truth and changing the way they perceive and treat one another. As Christians follow the way of life demonstrated by Jesus Christ, they love each other and all others— even their enemies, just as Christ has loved them. This is the only answer that can restore peace in our world.

The way Jesus teaches us to pray is precisely what our world needs to undergo transformation, and it is the way Christians ought to live.

"This, then, is how you should pray: 'Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name,  your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us today our daily bread.  And forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors.  And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one.’" (Matthew 6:9-13, NIV)

I invite Christians to pray in this manner and to live out their faith in this way:

"God our Father, we declare Jesus is Lord over all things. Let your kingdom come within us and through us. Make us more like Jesus Christ. May we stand in Christ's righteousness. May that give us the power and boldness to live rightly and to do what is just. May we have a peace that comes from knowing that your Spirit is with us no matter what we face, and may we be peacemakers. May we have a joy that comes from knowing that our identity is Christ and make our joy complete as we honor you in everything we think, say, and do. We want your will more than we want our way. Show us your will for today. We depend upon your provision. Help us be content with all that you've given us and with our extra may we be generous to those in need. We depend upon your forgiveness. We trust in your measure of justice on all sin—including the sins against us—so give us the strength and grace to forgive all others. We depend upon your protection. Lead us to do the loving thing, which is the selfless thing that protects us from doing the evil thing. In Jesus' name, amen.

Get Ready for the 2nd Half of Unshakeable!

We are about to launch into the second half of our Unshakeable Generosity Initiative. Don’t miss this Sunday as we celebrate what God has done through our faithful giving and what we have yet to do.

Also, we have two requests of you:

  1. Wear your Unshakeable shirt on October 22, 2023.

  2. Share your Unshakeable Story with us.

We would like to hear how God has been growing you in your faith through your commitment to be Unshakeable. How is Unshakeable challenging you or encouraging you? How has God revealed Himself to you? What would you say to encourage someone else?

 
 

Middle & High School Resources for Parents

We want to give your teen a Biblical worldview on their sexual identity and how God sees relationships, sex, and temptation. This series will give your Middle or High Schooler a Biblical worldview to build and maintain relationships that honor God.

We have put together several resources for parents to talk with their teen about what they are learning in The Loft. Click below to access all the parent resources for the new series in The Loft.

Week 1: Relationships
Week 2: Lust or Love
Week 3: Sex is a Big Deal to God
Week 4: Dating

Middle School Begins September 17 at 9:30am in The Loft

High School Begins September 20 at 6:30pm in The Loft

Contact Caleb Klinger with any questions or to learn more. (913) 890-4044