As we enter the Advent season, we’re reminded how grateful we are for the Gayton family God has brought together. At Gayton, we’re committed to growing in faith, serving with joy, and building real community. Our mission is simple and central to all we do: to be disciples who make disciples of all generations.

This first week of Advent centers on hope. Advent invites us to look for God’s light breaking into the world and to remember that Christ’s coming brings strength, peace, and renewed expectation. As we worship, serve, and gather this season, we hold onto the truth that Christ is our hope—both in our personal journeys and in a world longing for light.

This season brings meaningful opportunities to worship, serve, and connect—but it also invites us to remember those who may be entering Advent with heavy hearts: those far from family, those who feel alone, and those unsure of their needs being met. As a church, we hold these brothers and sisters close in prayer, and we seek to be the hands and feet of Christ for anyone who needs care, connection, or encouragement.

We hope you’ll lean in, watch and wait with hope, and join us in embodying God’s love in ways that bring the light of Christ to our community.

To stay up to date on everything happening at Gayton—including upcoming events and opportunities to serve—be sure to check The Glance each week. Click here to subscribe to The Glance.

Note: All news items are due by Mondays at 5 p.m.

Start your morning at 9 AM with the Bridges Adult Sunday School Class, then join us at 10 AM for worship with music, singing, and a message from Rev. Bryon LePere for the first week of Advent—Hope. Drawing from Psalm 122 and Isaiah 2:1–5, Rev. Bryon will open our Advent journey with a message exploring the Hope of Advent, inviting us to trust God’s promises and walk in His light, even when the world feels unsteady.

PLEASE NOTE:

There will be NO Kids Ministry this week (Nursery-5th Grade), so children are invited to join their parents in the 10 AM worship service.

At 11 AM, we will not hold our regular Bible Study classes. Instead, we will gather for a special time of decorating our church for the Christmas and Advent season! Let’s celebrate the joy of the season with Christmas music, cookies, and holiday cheer filling the air. Whether you come on your own, with friends, your family, or your small group, there’s a spot (and a garland!) waiting for you.

Be sure to bring an ornament representing your family for our Gayton Family Tree, which will be decorated that day. Please label your ornament with your name(s) and plan to pick it up on Sunday, January 4.

Come be part of making our space warm, welcoming, and festive as we prepare our hearts and church home to celebrate the birth of Christ. We can’t wait to decorate together!

Wednesday, Dec. 3 | 5:30–6:30 PM

(Rehearsals: Monday, Dec. 1 @ 1 PM & Wednesday, Dec. 3 @ 3 PM)

Join us for a joyful evening of music, laughter, and holiday cheer!

This festive variety show, presented in partnership with ASQ, is open to the public — so invite your friends and family to come celebrate the season.

More information coming soon! For details, contact Pastor Hillary.

Our Youth & Young Adults gathered this past Sunday for a wonderful Friendsgiving celebration, and it was truly a joy-filled evening. Led by Rev. Jennifer, this cherished Gayton tradition brought together students and young adults for a delicious potluck meal, meaningful worship, and rich fellowship.

From laughter around the table to shared stories of gratitude, it was a sweet reminder of the community God is forming in and through our young people. Thank you to everyone who brought food, invited friends, and helped make the night special. Our hearts are full!

Right here at Gayton, we’re collecting new, unwrapped toys for the Northside Outreach Center’s Christmas Store, which helps families in Highland Park shop with dignity for gifts for their children.

🎁 Please bring donations to the drop-off box in Gayton’s Welcome Area. Our collection wraps up on Sunday, December 7.

Additional ways to help:

• Shop the Amazon Wish List

• Drop off toys directly at the NOC Community Thrift Store (Mon–Fri, 10:00 AM–1:30 PM; deadline Wed, Dec. 10)

• •Give Financially (Secure online form)

Thank you for blessing families this Christmas!

• Poinsettia Orders Due: Order online or using a paper order form (available at the Welcome Center). Poinsettias will decorate our Worship Center throughout the Christmas season and may be picked up on Christmas Eve.
• Gayton Post Office Opens: Please write the recipient's first and last names on your cards. Be sure to check the table for your cards!
• Christmas Youth Amazing Race: 2 PM - 8 PM

Join us for Hope Awakes, our annual Christmas concert celebrating the light of Christ and the hope that shines anew this season!

There will be two performances on Sunday, December 14, at 3 PM and 5:30 PM.

We’re currently seeking volunteers to help with food provision and service support as we host this festive and spiritual tradition.

More details coming soon.

We are excited to offer another way to give! Just text “give” to (757) 379-8236 (or scan the QR code) for instructions to complete your gift. It’s quick, safe and convenient! Please reach out to our Financial Administrator Kelly Chin with any questions.

For more information, contact Worship Pastor Matt White.

Here is a summary of the tithes and offerings received in October 2025:

* Total Tithes & Offerings (October): $69,897.06

* October Budget Goal: $65,000.00

* Surplus: $4,897.06

Your generous giving supports ministry, missions, outreach and the daily operations of the Church.

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