LHF This Week Celebrating Our Year-End Highlights and Welcoming 2026 with Hope and Joy

Living Hope Fellowship
Dec 29, 2025
4 min read

As the holiday lights dim and the echoes of Christmas carols gently fade, we find ourselves standing on the threshold of a brand new year. With 2025 drawing to a close and 2026 just around the corner, it’s the perfect moment to reflect on the blessings of the past weeks and look ahead with hope and excitement. Whether you spent Christmas surrounded by family, friends, or in quiet reflection, we pray your heart was filled with peace and joy. Now, as we prepare to welcome the new year starting this Thursday, let’s take a moment to wrap up the final week of 2025 and glimpse what lies ahead for our community.

Weekly Wrapup: A Christmas Week to Remember

This past week, our schedule was lighter than usual, allowing many of us to savor the true spirit of Christmas. We hope everyone enjoyed a wonderful holiday filled with warmth, love, and meaningful moments. The trimmed-down activities gave space for rest and reflection, which is so important as we close one chapter and prepare for the next.

Our church family came together in a spirit of gratitude and celebration, embracing the message of hope that Christmas brings. It was a time to pause, appreciate God’s blessings, and recharge for the journey ahead.

Worship Recap: Closing 2025 with Praise and Reflection

Our final worship service of the year was a beautiful occasion that captured the essence of Christmas. The spirit of the season was alive as we gathered to encourage one another and lift our voices in praise to our Savior.

The worship team led us with heartfelt renditions of classic Christmas carols, creating an atmosphere of joy and reverence. A special highlight was Rob Coffey’s moving performance of “Mary Did You Know?” which touched many hearts with its tender message.

Pastor Derek delivered the sermon from Matthew 2, focusing on the Magi’s journey to see Jesus. He reminded us of their obedience and faith as they traveled far to worship Christ - a journey which took two years and constant dedication. Their example challenges us to seek Jesus with the same dedication and humility in our own lives. The heart with which they followed God's direction and the joy they felt when arriving at the feet of Jesus encourage us to carry the spirit of Christmas with us all year round. You can find audio of the message at our website, or apple or spotify. You can also watch the message at our YouTube Channel.

To close the service, Brittany Rayan shared a song she wrote for the Christmas season. Her beautiful voice and heartfelt lyrics added a personal and inspiring touch to the evening, leaving us uplifted and ready to embrace the new year.

Youth Stay Up All Night: Starting the New Year Early

While New Year’s Eve is often known for late-night celebrations, our youth group decided to kick off the festivities a little early. On Sunday night, nearly 30 teens gathered for an all-night lock-in that transformed the church into a lively recreation hall.

The night was filled with games, fellowship, and laughter as the young members of our community bonded and celebrated together. This event was more than just fun—it was a chance to build strong friendships and deepen faith through shared experiences.

The energy and enthusiasm of our youth remind us of the vibrant future of our church. Their commitment to fellowship and faith is inspiring as we look forward to all that 2026 holds.

This Week’s Highlights: Opportunities to Connect and Grow

As we step into the new year, several important events are on the horizon. Here’s what you can look forward to in the coming days:

Thursday: UP – 24 Hours of Unceasing Prayer

Join us in dedicating a full day to prayer for our city and Christian witness in our area. This powerful time of intercession will strengthen our community and deepen our connection with God. Learn more at lhfellowship.com/prayer.

Friday: Men’s Bible Study at 7 a.m.

Meet at Panera Bread in Brannon Crossing for a study of the book of Acts. This early morning gathering is a great way to start the day with fellowship and spiritual growth.

Sunday: Elder Meeting at 8 a.m.

Our church elders will convene to plan and pray for the ministry ahead. Please keep them in your prayers as they guide our community.

How Are You Reading The Bible This Year?

Each year, many at LHF look forward to the opportunity to read through the Bible. This year, we invite you to join together in reading the Word of God in chronological order. It is a great way to see God's great story unfold in historical fashion. You can get a copy of the reading plan at church on the info table by the front door, or click the image below to download a digital copy.

Prayer List: Holding Our Community in Heartfelt Prayer

We ask you to join us in lifting up these members of our church family who need support and healing:

Lynda Falin – Recovering from a fall that resulted in a broken wrist and sternum.
Archie Falin – Receiving hospice care.
Alan Hinkle – Battling cancer and currently in hospice.
Flynn Family – Facing illness.
Major Family – Also dealing with illness.
Pastors Chris and Derek – Preparing for their mission trip to the Philippines from January 8 to 21.
Liam Coffey – A precious baby who came home this week, bringing joy to the Coffey family.

Your prayers and support mean so much to those going through difficult times. Let’s continue to surround them with love and faith.

Looking Ahead: Embracing 2026 with Hope and Joy

As we move into 2026, we carry with us the lessons and blessings of the past year. The journey of the Magi reminds us to seek Christ with open hearts and obedient spirits. Our youth’s enthusiasm encourages us to build strong, faith-filled relationships. The upcoming prayer events and Bible studies offer opportunities to deepen our walk with God and strengthen our community.

This new year is a fresh start, a chance to grow in faith, serve others, and share the love of Christ in our city. Let’s step forward together with confidence, knowing that God’s grace will guide us every step of the way.

May 2026 be a year filled with hope, joy, and abundant blessings for all of us.