Christmas Eve at West Side
Awaken the World with Love
Wednesday, December 24, 2005
On this holy night, the light of the world enters not in grandeur, but through the cries of a newborn in a borrowed stable. Shepherds—outsiders to society—are the first to hear the good news, because God’s love is always seeking the edges. John’s Gospel reminds us that the Word became flesh and dwelled among us, not above us. This Christmas, come and awaken to love made real—love that calls us to live contemplatively, love inclusively, share generously, and act justly.
Lessons and Carols
3:00 PM
Experience the timeless beauty of Scripture and song in this traditional service of Lessons and Carols. Ancient readings, cherished carols, and the glow of candlelight prepare our hearts for the wonder of Christ's birth.
Contemporary Worship and Candlelighting
6:30 PM
Join us for a joyful, family-friendly celebration led by West Side's live contemporary band. With candlelight and carols, we celebrate the light that shines in the darkness and cannot be overcome.
Candlelight Communion Service
10:00 PM
A quiet, contemplative service of Word, song, and sacrament. Gather in the hush of Christmas night to receive communion and reflect on the mystery of the Word made flesh. Pastor Marc Oehler will preach at both the 6:30 PM and 10:00 PM services.
Come as you are. Bring your wonder. Let the light of Christ awaken the world with love.
First Sunday of Advent: Hope
November 30, 2025
Love in Action
This Advent, we’re turning faith into something you can see and touch. Our goal: $30,000 to bring love to life through:
Rise Against Hunger
meal-packing events right here at West Side.
Appalachia Service Project
sending youth + adults to repair homes and build hope.
Because LOVE isn’t just something we say. It’s something we DO.
Give today at westside.org/give → choose "2025 Advent Mission." Let’s awaken the world with love—right here, right now.
Bringing in Christmas
Sunday, November 30, 11:30am in DePhilips Hall
Come create your own Advent wreath to take home as we prepare our hearts for the coming of Christ. We’ll provide the frame, candles, and materials — just bring your family and your Christmas spirit! This is a wonderful hands-on way for children to learn the meaning of Advent and for families to mark the beginning of the season together.
And that’s not all — come and enjoy food, festive music, and warm fellowship as we celebrate the start of Advent as a church family. All are welcome!
Hanging of the Greens
Sunday, November 30, 12:00pm in the Narthex
After Bringing In Christmas, we invite you to stay and take part in Hanging of the Greens!
All ages are welcome to help dress the church for the holiday season. Guided by our Music & Arts Committee, we’ll hang ornaments on trees, wrap garlands, place wreaths, and fill the church with Christmas beauty and joy.
Come celebrate the start of Advent with warmth, laughter, service, and the spirit of Christmas!
Annual Christmas Poinsettia Sale
Poinsettias in honor or in memory of a loved one go on sale to the congregation beginning on Sunday, November 30 and running through the deadline on Friday, December 12.
Second sunday of advent: Peace
December 7, 2025
Third Sunday of Advent: Joy
December 14, 2025
Handel's Messiah in Concert
Sunday, December 14, 3pm
A holiday favorite, the Oratorio Choir, soloists, and period-instrument orchestra will present Handel’s immortal oratorio Messiah in its entirety—every movement, just as the composer intended—which includes some of his best-known music, like "For unto us a child is born" and the powerful “Hallelujah” chorus. Don't miss this FREE concert at West Side Presbyterian on December 14 at 3 p.m.!
Third Thursday Men's Ministry Holiday Gathering
Thursday, December 18
Hosted by Ron Ledwith
Fourth Sunday of Advent: Love
December 21, 2025
The Longest Night: A Service of Light and Hope
Sunday, December 21 at 5 PM
On the longest night of the year, we gather to remember that even in our darkest seasons, light still finds us.
Join us for a family-friendly evening of candle lighting, music, and quiet reflection on the spiritual practice of wintering—finding rest, meaning, and renewal in the waiting.
Come early or stay late to walk the indoor Labyrinth (open 4–7 PM). After worship, warm up with Mulled Cider, Hot Cocoa and good conversation.
We’ll hold hope together in the promise that “The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness cannot overcome it.”