The Fellowship Committee, who supplies us with refreshments after Sunday's service, will be taking a break for the month of August.  

Coffee and tea will still be available, as always.

If anyone would like to bring something to share in the interim, please feel free to do so.

Dear Church Family:

One of the ministries of Pender UMC that I have come to appreciate greatly is the Altar Fund. As most of you know, the Altar Fund is dedicated to helping persons with emergency needs of many kinds.  During my three years as your pastor, we have helped individuals and families with gasoline, food, electric bills, phone cards, motel rentals, and a host of other needs. Sometimes the needs are urgent and easily addressed, other times the need is larger and chronic. When it comes to physical necessities, there is obviously only so much a local church can and should do, so partnering with other churches and making referrals to government agencies is also a vital part of this ministry. In every situation, we offer prayer and spiritual support to those we help.  

The Altar Fund ministry of compassion and mercy is not undertaken alone. Our church staff plays a vital role. Vicki, our administrative assistant, is a warm and attentive presence who receives requests and helps me in responding with Christ-like compassion to those in need. From time to time, I have witnessed each of our staff members (and some of you!) provide hospitality and care for those who come to us sometimes in desperate circumstances. Of course, all of this is made possible through the generosity of church members and participants who give regularly to the fund on communion Sundays and at other times. 

Sometimes the needs of others and the call of God are extraordinary. In the past couple days, we were able to help a woman and her son move from a motel into a new apartment. Olga’s already tenuous life caring for an elderly woman was placed in jeopardy when the woman was hospitalized and could no longer pay her day by day. When she called us, she was distraught as her other son died recently. Her surviving son has been traumatized. To help her with her emergency need, Pender partnered with her United Methodist congregation. While her pastor was away on vacation, I prayed with her and encouraged her to trust the Lord with her flood of trouble. With the aid of our Altar Fund, the Lord provided for the material and spiritual need of Olga and James.

In his teaching about the judgment of the nations (Matthew 25:31-46), King Jesus made clear that his faithful servants are those who welcome and care for “the least of these” as if they were caring for him personally. It is a great privilege to give a shared and faithful witness to our Savior and Lord through the ministry of the Altar Fund that brings relief to some of the most vulnerable persons in our community. This Sunday is Communion Sunday, and all who worship with us in person will be invited to contribute to this vital ministry of God’s kingdom as a part of our disciple’s devotion. If you cannot be with us in person, you may also contribute on our Pender website.  

The Lord has blessed us richly with all good things in Christ. May the Lord continue to bless us with compassion and generosity that helps others in such needful ways and demonstrates our love for Christ Jesus.

Pastor Bruce

• July 31, Dinner and a Movie
• August 1, Pender Hikers
• August 3, Mary Martha Circle
• August 4, Pastor Bruce Evening Bible Study
• August 5, Ruth Circle
• August 5, AA Open Meeting
• August 6, Pastor Bruce Morning Bible Study
• August 6, Joyful Thursday
• August 8, Caring Hands
• August 22, Summer Spirit
• August 23, Impact Youth resume
• August 29, Louise Weller Service at noon
• August 30, Patrick's Last Sunday
• September 1, Handbell Rehearsals Resume
• September 3, Choir Rehearsals Resume
• September 8, Handbell Rehearsals Resume
• September 20, Back to Church Sunday
• September 20, Fellowship Feast/BBQ
• September 20, Kid's Sunday School resumes
• October 17, Walk to End Hunger
• October 17, Washington Soloists Ensemble Concert 

Weekly Events

• Sunday
• Children's Sunday School Classes on break until September 20. The children will meet in the sanctuary until just after Children's Time. They will then leave for Sunday School with their teachers. We are asking for volunteers to periodically relieve the Sunday School teachers so they may attend the full worship service.
• Youth Sunday School Class at 10:30
• Seeker Adult Sunday School Class meets at 9:00 am.
• Praying Our Faith at 9:00 am.
• The Impact Youth Group at 5:00 pm On break until August 23.
• Monday
• Fun with Music on break until fall.
  Mary Martha Circle, online
• Tuesday
• Handbell rehearsals on break until September 8
• Pastor Bruce Bible Study
• Wednesday
• Ruth Circle, Second Wednesday of the month
• AA Meetings at 6pm
• Thursday
• Pastor Bruce Bible Study
• Lectio Divina Prayer Group
• Choir Rehearsal on break until fall

Check here for other meetings.

Items below:

• Pender Hikers
• Neighborhood Food Pantry
• WFCM News
• How to add events to the Church Calendar
• Upcoming Events: Creation Care, Back to Church Sunday and more.
• Financial News
• Police Rest Stop
• Library/Bible Request
• Medical Closet
• Pender Hill School

Pender's Dinner and a Movie – The Odyssey

Looking for a fun afternoon of fellowship? Join your Pender friends for Dinner and a Movie on Friday, July 31!

We'll meet for the 2:15 p.m. showing of The Odyssey at Worldgate 9 Theater in Herndon. After the movie, we'll continue the fun with dinner and conversation at The Amphora Restaurant, a longtime local favorite.

Whether you've read the classic story or are simply looking for an enjoyable afternoon with friends, this is a wonderful opportunity to relax, share a meal, and enjoy good company together.

Date: Friday, July 31

Movie: The Odyssey – 2:15 p.m.

Location: Worldgate 9 Theater, Herndon. Jane suggests getting tickets in row G or H so we can sit together.

Dinner: The Amphora Restaurant (following the movie)

For more information, please contact Jane McKee.

We hope you'll join us for an afternoon of great fellowship, entertainment, and delicious food!

A couple weeks ago Pender Director of Music Ministries Patrick King and the Praise Band presented "Cry of My Heart" (#2165 from The Faith We Sing).

Before the anthem, Patrick shared a thoughtful reflection about recently seeing the new film The Odyssey with his wife and how its themes of longing, perseverance, and the search for home echo the deeper spiritual journey found throughout the Bible.

"Cry of My Heart" is a heartfelt prayer of devotion, expressing our desire to seek God, follow Christ, and live faithfully each day. Patrick's introduction offered a meaningful perspective on how timeless stories can point us toward the eternal truths found in Scripture.

The Pender Hikers Make a New Friend!

On Saturday, July 25, 2026, Pender's first group of hikers laced up their walking shoes and set out to explore some of the trails around Greenbriar Park.

Along the way, we met a young deer who seemed just as curious about us as we were about him (or her!). While our new woodland friend calmly munched on leaves, we paused to admire the unexpected visitor—and wondered if we'd stumbled upon the official Greenbriar Welcome Committee.

We also learned an important lesson for future hikes: beginning next Saturday, August 1 at 9:30 am, we'll be parking in one of the softball/baseball lots just north of the Cale Community Center (see map below). It makes for an easier and more convenient starting point for the trails.

Before heading home, we gathered for a group photo. Apparently, the deer didn't want to miss out on becoming a charter member of the Pender Hikers.

As you'll see in the picture, our four-legged friend graciously posed with us—and even rested its head on Jane’s shoulder!

Thank You for Supporting Philippi!

A heartfelt thank you to Saundra Sandrock for sharing her time, talent, and creativity with our church family. Saundra generously created beautiful flower arrangements and donated 100% of the proceeds from their sale to support the Philippi Tiny Homes project.

We are also deeply grateful to everyone in the congregation who purchased bouquets and gave so generously. Together, your kindness and support raised an incredible $3,042.00 for this important mission.



Thank you for helping provide hope and housing through the Philippi ministry. Your generosity is making a real difference in the lives of others!

Creation Care at Pender UMC

A Ministry of Healing, Stewardship, and Hope

As United Methodists, we believe that caring for God’s creation is a sacred responsibility. Scripture calls us to be stewards of the earth (Genesis 1:26-31), not only enjoying its beauty but protecting it for future generations. Creation care is more than an environmental action—it’s an act of discipleship and a reflection of our love for God and neighbor.

On Earth Day, April 22, 2025, Pender UMC embraced this calling with a Community Cleanup, taking the first of many steps toward a more sustainable and faithful relationship with God’s world. Volunteers of all ages came together to clean up public spaces, care for the environment, and celebrate the gift of creation.

This is just the beginning. Explore how you can get involved in Pender’s ongoing commitment to environmental stewardship and learn how our church is living out its mission by loving all of creation.

“The earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it.” — Psalm 24:1

How Can You Help?

Faith in Action: Simple Steps to Save Electricity and Care for God’s Creation

As followers of Christ, we are called to be good stewards of God’s creation. One powerful way to live out that calling is by making conscious choices that reduce our environmental impact—starting with how we use electricity.

According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency, electricity production is the largest source of greenhouse gas emissions in the U.S. In fact, about <b67% of our electricity comes from burning fossil fuels like coal and natural gas. These emissions contribute directly to climate change and environmental degradation.

Thankfully, there are practical steps we can take to reduce our personal and collective impact. The United Methodist Board of Church and Society encourages us to consider the following actions:

Choose Energy-Efficient Lighting

One of the simplest ways to save electricity is by switching to CFL (compact fluorescent light) or LED (light-emitting diode) bulbs. These bulbs use a fraction of the electricity of traditional incandescent ones and last much longer. Every small change adds up—and this is a great place to start!

Upgrade to Energy-Efficient Appliances

When it’s time to replace your refrigerator, washing machine, or other home appliances, consider investing in Energy Star-certified models. They’re designed to use less electricity and water, saving both energy and money over time.

Let the Light In

Sometimes all it takes to save energy is opening the curtains. Letting natural light into your home or workspace can reduce the need to use electric lighting during daylight hours. It’s a simple habit that promotes both energy conservation and a more cheerful atmosphere.

Reduce Air Conditioner Use

Air conditioning is another major energy consumer. Consider adjusting your thermostat, using fans, and ventilating with outdoor air when possible. Small steps like these reduce strain on the power grid and limit your environmental footprint.

Invest in Renewable Energy

If you’re in a position to do so, explore solar panels, wind power, or green energy options from your utility provider. Renewable energy helps reduce our reliance on fossil fuels and supports a more sustainable future.

Rethink Transportation

The vehicles we drive are another major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions. Carpooling, using public transportation, biking, or driving low-emission or electric vehicles can significantly cut down on our carbon output. Plus, sharing a ride often builds community and connection!

Eat Local, Think Global

Our food choices matter too. Eating locally grown produce and goods reduces the need for long-distance shipping, which burns large quantities of fuel. Supporting local farmers is also a great way to care for your community and promote sustainable agriculture.

Living the Call to Stewardship

As people of faith, we are uniquely positioned to lead by example. Small, mindful changes to how we live can have a profound impact—on the planet and on future generations. By embracing practices that conserve energy and reduce emissions, we honor the God who created this beautiful world and commanded us to care for it.

Let’s be a church—and a people—that lives out our faith in every action, including how we power our homes, travel, and care for the earth.

“The earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it.” — Psalm 24:1

Ready to take the next step? Start with just one small change today. Your light—quite literally—can help brighten the world.

Egg Cartons Needed for WFCM

The Ruth Circle is collecting egg cartons for Western Fairfax Christian Ministries (WFCM). The cartons are used to help WFCM clients safely take eggs home.

Please donate any size or type of clean egg carton, but be sure it closes securely.

You can place your donated cartons in the collection box by Pender's front door, where paper bags are also being collected for WFCM.

Thank you for helping us care for our neighbors in this simple but meaningful way!

Neighborhood Food Pantry Box

Pender has a small wooden pantry box at the end of the second church entrance. This pantry box is of great service to our neighbors, friends, and families within the Pender community. 

Please prayerfully consider donating a canned, or boxed food item. We cannot accept expired or fresh produce or pastry items. Please do not include stationary, tracts, containers, or disposal silverware -- just food. 

Many thanks!

Handbells are not just for children and teens! We have adult handbell groups for beginner to advanced ringers.  The difficulty level of handbell music is rated from Level 1 (easy) to Level 6 (most difficult). Each of the groups rings 6-8 times in worship between September and June and participates in the annual Christmas handbell concert. 

The groups also like to participate in the various festivals that are held by the regional handbell guild (Handbell Musicians of America – Area 3). Our rehearsals are full of laughing and ringing (sometimes more laughing than ringing!) You do not have to know how to read music to learn how to ring handbells! 

Carillon Ringers group is for ringers who ring Level 2 and Level 3 music.

Carillon Ringers rehearse at 6:45 Tuesday. The handbells will play during the Traditional Service about once every four to six weeks.  

Joy Ringers group is for advanced ringers who ring Level 4 and Level 5 music

Joy Ringers rehearse at 7:30 Tuesday. The handbells will play during the Traditional Service about once every four to six weeks. 

WFCM Executive Director's Update 

During the month of June, use of our markets increased as the school year ended impacting both students' access to food and income earned by 10-month employees working for the school system. As needs for housing financial assistance remain high, I am grateful that Fairfax County's Emergency Rental Assistance (ERA) Program re-started and we were able to provide more than $160,000 in eviction prevention assistance based on referrals received from the county.

With a new process for Fairfax County's Emergency Food and Emergency Housing grants for Fiscal Year 2027, that begins today July 1st, grant decisions have been delayed until July 15th at the earliest. I am thankful for a generous donation from Centra for $50,000 that ensures we can continue to provide assistance with payments for gas, water, and electric bills without interruption.

I am also thankful to several congregation partners who have provided donations for direct housing assistance to help ensure we can continue providing rent assistance (not limited to the ERA eviction prevention referrals) during the month of July while we await information regarding the county grant. As our Sully District Supervisor, Kathy Smith stated, "In today’s world, given the circumstances that we each deal with, it becomes all the more apparent that we can’t do it alone. That’s why partnership is so important. Corporate giving plays a vital role in strengthening the communities where businesses operate. When companies invest time, resources, and funding into local initiatives, they help foster economic growth, and build trust with the people they serve. Centra's commitment to WFCM not only enhances community well‑being but also creates a positive, values‑driven culture within Centra’s organization. The investments into our community contribute to a more resilient and connected region for everyone.” 

With the partnership of many families, congregations, businesses, organizations, and Fairfax County Government, WFCM provided 1.37 million pounds of groceries and $467,000 in rent/utility assistance to 1,483 unique families* (4,368 people) in Fiscal Year 2026, in addition to providing weekend meals for 674 students and supplemental food for community members via three community Free Food Fridges. Thank you for your support throughout last fiscal year including your generous spring appeal donations that exceeded our goal and help us begin this new fiscal year prepared to meet the needs in our community.

Your partnership is critical and impactful for thousands of community members!

God bless,

Harmonie Taddeo, Executive Director

~~~

Most needed items in the Free Food Markets this month:

• Sugar (1 lb. or 2 lb. bag)
• Oil (vegetable, canola, olive)
• Cereal (low sugar preferred)
• Oatmeal (Quaker Oats)
• Pancake Mix
• Shelf Stable Juice (apple, cranberry, grape)
• Canned Tomatoes (crushed, whole, paste)
• Canned Fruit (pineapple, mandarin oranges)
• Mashed Potatoes
• Canned Fish (tuna, salmon)
• Pasta Sauce (no glass jars)

Toiletries and Household Items:

• Toilet Paper
• Baby Wipes
• Body Wash
• Bar Soap
• Toothpaste
• Body Lotion
• Shaving Cream (full size) and Disposable Razors
• Pull-ups size 4T/5

As a reminder, we accept food and toiletry donations Monday - Friday 8-10 am at 4511 Daly Drive Suite H (Back Door) and on the second Saturday monthly 9-11 am.

Other WFCM needs:

WFCM provides more than food to our neighbors – they also provide direct financial assistance for rent as well as other support programs to help families become self-sufficient. All of these activities are funding by financial donations.

How YOU can help:

1.  Place needed items into the cart at Pender for weekly delivery to WFCM

2.  Provide a monetary donation through Pender by designating WFCM on your check or on-line giving. 

3.  Order from Amazon for direct delivery to WFCM at 4511 Daly Drive, Suite H, Chantilly, VA 20151 (Amazon is best for heavy items.)

4.  Donate your time by volunteering in the Food Pantry or another of their many services.

To learn more, click here to link to the WFCM website. www.wfcmva.org​

If you have any questions, please contact Becky Bryan, the Pender coordinator with WFCM. 

Registration is now open for
the 3rd Walk to End Hunger and Fellowship

Breakfast on Saturday October 17, 2026. The Walk to End Hunger is part of the Centreville Day Parade. 

Sign up today for the breakfast, walk, or both! 

​

Date: October 17

Breakfast: 8:45-10am

Walk to End Hunger: 10:45-11:30am 

The Fellowship Breakfast will feature a hearty meal including pancakes, eggs, crispy potatoes, and breakfast meat. Families can enjoy having their faces painted while we eat, chat, and hear WFCM updates. ​​The Walk to End Hunger is a one-mile family-friendly walk at the end of the Centreville Day Parade to raise awareness about food insecurity in our communities and ​raise funds for our Free Food Markets in Chantilly and Centreville. To learn more about Centreville Day activities, visit historiccentrevilleva.org. 

​

New this year, WFCM participants will have our own shuttle buses between the breakfast location and Centreville Day. While you may register for the breakfast only or walk only, we encourage you to join us for both. If you are concerned about walking the full mile in the parade, you may take the WFCM shuttle and watch the parade, with minimal walking to and from the shuttle drop-off location.

​

Also new this year, instead of a virtual auction WFCM will offer a raffle for dining gift cards for registered participants. Each Adult/Youth registered participant will receive one raffle ticket. You can purchase additional raffle tickets when signing up for the breakfast and or walk online. All prizes are valued at $100+. Limit one prize per person. Raffle ticket sales are tax deductible less the value of any prize won. Raffle sales end October 14th prior to the breakfast and walk. ​

​

All walkers must register by Friday September 18th to receive a t-shirt. 

The parade route is officially .92 miles. the walk will not be timed. Children in strollers are welcome. For safety reasons, please no headphones/ear buds, pets, bicycles, or skates. 

WFCM chartered shuttles will depart from Centreville Day at 1:00pm. Further instructions about the location of the breakfast, walk, parking, and shuttles will be provided to registered participants. 

​ All walkers must submit a signed waiver of liability. Please return completed forms to donorsupport@wfcmva.org Note: If you participated in the 2024 or 2025 Walk to End Hunger, a new waiver is not required.

Does your group meet at Pender—either in person or online?

Help us keep the church calendar accurate! If anything’s changing with your recurring meeting, just shoot an email to webmaster@penderumc.org.

Pender meetings follow the school year, so if your group meets weekly or monthly and wants to continue in the fall, you'll need to reschedule for the 2025–2026 year.

With four other congregations now sharing space at Pender, it’s more important than ever to reserve your room—and release it if you're no longer using it.

Pender members and Pender-sponsored groups (like the Boy Scouts) can click here to add your event. Be sure to include your preferred room number.

Once your event is approved, you’ll get an email confirmation. Just remember: if someone else already booked the room, you'll need to pick another option.

Thanks for helping Pender stay organized!



Fellowship Feasts Return September 20!

After our Back to Church Sunday worship service on September 20, 2026, we're excited to kick off a new season of Pender's monthly Fellowship Feasts!

To celebrate, we're firing up the grill for a church barbecue. The main barbecue items will be provided, and we'd love your help in making the meal complete.

Please bring a favorite side dish to share with your church family. And if you happen to have extra meat for the grill, feel free to bring that along as well!

Fellowship Feasts are a wonderful opportunity to enjoy a delicious meal, reconnect with friends, welcome new faces, and strengthen our church family around the table.



Whether you've been at Pender for years or are joining us for the first time, we hope you'll stay after worship for food, fellowship, and fun. Everyone is welcome!

Established in 1993, Washington Soloist Ensemble has been an integral part of the Korean diaspora that has represented Korean culture in the United States through music. The group has performed in numerous key events over the years including the Centennial of Korean Immigration to the United States. By harmonizing the choral artistry of Korea and the United States, the group’s music resonates with the heart and leaves a lasting impression.

Concert Day: Saturday, October 17, 2026 from 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM

Stewardship is about more than weekly donations. It is a demonstration of your trust, gratitude, and commitment to the Lord Almighty. 

In the weeks ahead, you will hear more about Stewardship and upcoming events relating to Consecration Sunday. 

Take some quiet time through bible study and heartfelt prayer to discern God’s will in your life. 

During this time, we appreciate your continued generosity in providing your weekly tithes and offerings.

As of June 30, 2026:



MTD actual revenue was $44,396;  YTD actual revenue was $266,025;

MTD actual expenses was $52,762; YTD actual expenses was $309,141;

MTD net loss was ($8,366);      YTD net loss was ($43,116).

Our First Responders need bottled water!

Lend a helping hand to our local heroes by contributing to the Pender Police Rest Stop! We are collecting a variety of items that our officers greatly appreciate during their shifts. You can drop off your donations at the church office, clearly marked "Rest Stop."

Here’s what our officers are currently enjoying:

• Celsius Energy Drinks to keep them energized
• Drizzilicious Rice Cakes for a light snack
• A variety of chips for that perfect crunch

Additionally, we're always in need of:

• Full-size water bottles (Please note: the 4oz bottles are not utilized)
• Refreshing beverages like seltzers, Gatorade, Propel, Aspire, and other energy drinks
• Individual-sized snacks such as potato chips, jerky, cookies, and nuts

Your contributions make a real difference in the daily routines of our police officers, providing them with the sustenance and morale boost they need to keep our community safe.

Drop by with your contributions and show your support!

The Pender Medical Closet Back!

Ruth Circle has restarted Pender's Medical Closet—a valuable resource we had years ago, and one that our community needs again! This lending library of medical equipment will provide wheelchairs, walkers, ice machines, canes and other essential items to those who need them, free of charge.

Here’s how you can help:

✅ Donate gently used medical equipment.

✅ Lend equipment you’re not currently using but may need in the future.

✅ Borrow items if you or a loved one has a temporary need.

Drop-off & Pick-up: Donations and borrowed equipment must be brought to and picked up from the church.

Sign-up Sheet: A log is available in the office to track donations and checkouts. Find it on MaryO's door.

For questions, donations, or lending, please call Roberta Pont.

Our goal is to support our church family and community by making these resources available to those in need.

Thank you for helping us bring this important ministry back to life!

Right now we have:

• NEW! A motorized scooter
• Nasal Mask
• Electric Wheelchair
• Wheelchairs
• Three rolling walkers
• A cane with built in seat
• Rolling walker with basket
• Canes and crutches
• A variety of braces for back, knee, leg and wrist
• Blood Pressure Monitors
• Polar Active Ice Therapy
• Wedge pillow - good for backs and after knee surgery
• Treadmill
• Low exercise bike. Contact Roberta for help moving this - there's a truck available.

On Loan:

• Two Wheelchairs
• Rolling Walker

Pender is an open and welcoming church. We accept and embrace all persons, period. All people are blessed children of God. Pender is a caring and praying church community; we believe as Christians that we are called to follow and practice the ways of Jesus Christ, who is our ever present and living God.

Our mission is to practice and embrace, providing unconditional love and acceptance of all of God's children as He loves and accepts all of us.

We do not discriminate based on age, mental, physical, or intellectual ability, culture, gender, race, religious belief or unbelief, or sexual orientation.