“Making Spirits Bright” is a festive, joyful, and surprise-filled Advent and Christmas series that highlights how God continually shows up in ways we do not expect. From fiery furnaces to dancing bones, overflowing feasts to the Word made flesh, Advent has been a story of holy surprises. This series captures the beauty, humor, and delight of Christmas while pointing us toward the Savior who brings light into every corner of our lives.

Nov 30 - Unexpected Hope: When God Shows Up in the Flames

Dec 7 - Unexpected Peace: When Bones Start Dancing

Dec 14 - Unexpected Joy: Free Refills at God’s Table

Dec 21 - Unexpected Love: God Wrapped in Skin

Dec 24 - The Most Unexpected Christmas

Dec 28 -Unexpected Testimony: When the Light Points Us Forward

Help us prepare the church for the Christmas season! Join us for the Hanging of the Greens after worship on Sunday Nov 30. All are welcome as we come together to decorate and celebrate the joy of Advent. Let’s make our space beautiful for this special season!

Join us in making the season brighter for children in the Lealman area! We are collecting new, unwrapped toys for our annual Toy Drive, in partnership with The Florida Dream Center, Police Athletic League (PAL) Pinellas, and the Lealman Fire District.

Please bring your donations to the church by Monday, December 9. Let’s work together to share God’s love and hope with our community this Christmas. Thank you for your generosity!

Are you experiencing sadness, grief, or loss during this holiday season? You are not alone. We invite you to a Blue Christmas Service on Tuesday, December 9, at 6:30 pm, in the sanctuary at First United Methodist Church of Gulfport.

This special service provides a quiet, contemplative space for reflection, prayer, and healing. Designed for those who find the holidays challenging, it acknowledges the pain many carry while offering the promise of hope and God’s comforting presence.

Come as you are and find solace in the stillness. Whether you’re seeking a moment of peace or simply a place to share your heart, you are welcome here. Bring a friend or loved one who may also benefit from this time of gentle worship.

We look forward to journeying together toward the light, even in the midst of darkness.

Purchase a poinsettia in honor or memory of a loved one to adorn our sanctuary this Christmas. Order by Dec 14 using the form in the bulletin or on our website. Thank you for enhancing our celebration of Christ’s birth!

CLICK HERE TO PURCHASE YOUR POINSETTIA

Celebrate the joy of Christ’s birth with us at our Christmas Eve Candlelight Worship Service on Sunday, December 24, at 6 pm. Experience the beauty of scripture, carols, and candlelight as we welcome the Light of the World. Bring family and friends—all are welcome!