Our study this semester is “Women of the Old Testament”.  There is a study guide that accompanies the study. For planning purposes, please sign-up at the Information Center if you are considering the Sunday morning class.  If you have any questions, please contact Susan Watson at 987-3220.

Somebody recently asked, “What is the purpose of Community Game Night and who should participate?”

Good question and one that those of us that are regulars at CGN probably just assume that everybody else already knows the answer to.    The two primary purposes are: Fellowship and Outreach.  CGN is intended as a monthly event that brings members of the church together for some fellowship.  It is an opportunity for families or small groups or even individuals to just get together and have some fun together.  It is also intended as a monthly event to introduce non-members to Westview.  Some Christians find it awkward or difficult to invite friends and neighbors to church so this is a non-threatening way to invite people to have some fun and gently introduce them to Westview.  So… everybody is welcome and should participate.  We typically play a wide range of games including card games, family games, party games, and strategy games.

Come explore how you can help by serving on the Alpha Team!

The Alpha course is an opportunity to explore the Christian faith in a relaxed, non-threatening manner over six thought provoking weekly sessions.  Join us for the Alpha kick-off dinner, Wednesday, January 28, 6-8 pm, at the church.

We are continuing our theme, Bethlehem Stories, this Sunday with our Children’s musical, More than a Story.  Please invite your friends!  You can find an email invitation on the church website, which you can forward on to your friends. (www.westview.org <http://www.westview.org/>  - look under Contacts, Jay’s Blog, “Christmas”)  There are also some invitations sitting on the table in the front foyer.

Dec. 7   Life is a Mess
Dec 14  More than a Story (Children’s Christmas musical)
Dec. 21 Born in a Small Town
Dec. 24 No Room in the Inn  (Christmas Eve, 6 pm)
Dec. 28 Escape to Egypt

Thoughts from our special meeting on the church’s financial picture.
Last Sunday many of you stayed for a meeting about the status of Westview’s finances and our ministry situation.  I was very encouraged by your interest, your questions and your ideas!  I said it last Sunday and I want to repeat it here. I believe that God will use the difficult times we are facing to build us into a stronger, outward focused church.
Concern for those without jobs
Many people have lost jobs lately.  This is an opportunity for those of us who follow Jesus to be the church in action.  Please be praying for those who are out of work.  Ask God to lead them to good jobs.  Be ready to share your resources with someone who isn’t getting paid and is wondering how to pay the bills.  You might have some contacts to share with people who are job hunting.  Let them know about that opportunity you heard about or that friend you have who works for a good company.  Let’s come together and surround those in the Westview family with love and support during this tough time.  We will continue to serve those outside of our church while we offer help to our brothers and sisters in the Lord who are looking for work.

Year End Giving

As we come to the end of 2008 (can you believe it?) would you take a moment to think about your giving to Westview Church?  If you need to catch up in what you had planned to give, this is a good time to do so!  If the Lord is leading you to give a year-end gift to Westview Church, it will be greatly appreciated!  Remember – contributions must be received or postmarked by Dec. 31 for 2008 giving.