Dear Church Family:

As you are probably aware, the General Conference of the United Methodist Church will meet in Charlotte NC from April 23-May 3. Every four years lay and clergy delegates from across our international United Methodist church meet to worship, discern, and legislate about the enduring mission and present priorities of the denomination. The takeaway of each General Conference is an updated Book of Discipline that informs and guides our shared life as a connectional church body. Every conference is consequential for the denomination and for local congregations, but this one is filled with heightened expectation of the possibility of significant changes that could impact us all. Some are eager for these changes while others are concerned about what is being proposed. For now, there is great uncertainty.

To prepare us for the uncertainties and the future possibilities, Pender UMC will hold three General Conference informational meetings this week (Sunday, March 10 between services, and Wednesday, March 13 at 11:00am and 7:00pm). Each session will take place in the Gathering Place and will be accompanied by a Power Point presentation and handouts that will help us all to understand the issues and the process, and to keep up with the developments. Donna Parker, our Church Council chairperson, and I will lead the presentations. Everyone attending will also be able to express your questions, concerns, and thoughts. We will address questions and clarify information about the conference itself at those times. Issues and concerns that cannot be addressed in such a short timeframe will be held and revisited later once we have clarity on the specific outcomes of the conference. The Church Council is committed to hearing your voices, and to make sure that we as a congregation can have the conversations necessary to discern our way forward as a church. This will not be easy work, but it is necessary. Moreover, it is work we must do together as a church, and I strongly encourage you to attend and give your input at one of the three sessions, and then to walk with us through this entire needed process. Through it all, we will strive to embody a Christ-like spirit of grace, truth, and love.

In the meantime, how else might we prepare ourselves and Pender to discern a faithful path forward during this uncertain but consequential season? The theme of this year’s conference is “…and know that I am God.” Many will recognize these words as a portion of Psalm 46:10. The whole verse reads, “Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.” It is the prayer of many United Methodists to better know the heart, mind, and will of the living God in this conference season. At the same time, we are living through the present Lenten season that reminds us of the first admonition of God through the Psalmist: “Be still…” As in, those who would know the mind and will of God must first humble and quiet themselves before the Lord. Our lives, and the conference, are noisy affairs. But the Holy Spirit is pleased to speak the needed word of grace and truth to those who humble themselves to be “still” before God in prayer and by searching the Scriptures. Each Wednesday during Lent (5:00-6:15), some come by the sanctuary to read God’s Word, to pray for themselves and the church, and to receive Holy Communion during a silent “Time with God.” Others gather to pray between our worship services each Sunday. Some of you devote time each day to “seek the face of God” in your homes or at a break in your day. As we make ourselves still before God, personally and together, we are journeying prayerfully together through this Lenten season of preparation.

If we would truly know the Great I AM, the divine mind and will for the challenges of our time, and discern our path ahead following Christ, the faithful will “be still” and let the Spirit of God speak to us of the mind, heart, and way of God revealed in Jesus Christ for this time. The Lord God will be exalted among the nations in all the earth. If he is to be Lord of Pender UMC for now and the future, then let us each call on him to be exalted first in our hearts, minds, lives, and fellowship. Please know also that your pastor is praying for you and for Pender. I covet your prayers for me, for our church leadership and fellowship, and for the body of Christ in the United Methodist Church.

Pastor Bruce

As Christians we know that God has acted in Jesus Christ to be in relationship with us, and we want to grow in our relationship to God. From the start, this has also been a central feature of Methodist Christianity. But how does this growth happen? And what is our part? Beginning next week, we will begin a new study and conversation to consider the ways God works in our lives with grace, and the specific ways in which we can participate in the process of knowing and loving the Lord. 

If you are interested, join us either on Tuesday at 7:00pm or on Thursday at 10:00am in the library.

We will order books soon and encourage anyone who is able to reimburse the church for the cost ($16) If that is a stretch for you, the church will pick up the cost. Since growing in our relationship to God is a topic that is relevant to every person, feel free to invite a friend or acquaintance beyond our congregation. I hope to see you there. Pastor Bruce

Setting The Tone

I have heard some folks say that the Bible is well and good, full of ancient wisdom, but doesn’t really speak to our modern age of technology, division, and pessimism. I beg to differ! 

Nathaniel would be a master of modern social media, where overreactions are par for the course. He goes from full snark in John 1:46 (“Can anything good come from Nazareth?”) to gobsmacked praise in 1:49 (“OMG! Truly you are the Son of God!”). 

Which goes to show that times and technologies change, but people are still people. We’re full of pride and jealousy, grab and boast. Whether gossiping under a first-century fig tree or hanging out on Facebook, our instincts are to put others down in order to lift ourselves up. Nor has the news changed that much in 2,000 years: rumors, wars, disasters, and politics are all grist for our grisly conversation mill.  

Jesus’ brother James wrote, “Think about this: A small flame can set a whole forest on fire... With [the tongue] we both bless the Lord and Father, and curse human beings made in God’s likeness. Blessing and cursing from the same mouth. My brothers and sisters, it just shouldn’t be this way!” (James 3:5b,9-10 CEB). 

We recently made the shift from the tired old year of 2023 to the shiny new year of 2024. Traditionally this is a time of resolutions. We promise ourselves that we’ll do something different so that the new year will be better than the old year. ... And then we pick up our phones and go right back to doomscrolling and trash talking. Got some juicy bad news or a half-baked hot take? Let’s repost it and share it and fan the flames! 

My sisters and brothers, it shouldn’t be this way! In his commentary on Nathaniel in John 1:46, John Wesley wrote, “How cautiously should we guard against popular prejudices... But [Nathaniel’s] integrity prevailed over that foolish bias, and laid him open to the force of evidence, which a candid inquirer will always be glad to admit, even when it brings the most unexpected discoveries.” 

As Christians, we have a better path. Instead of reposting popular prejudices, Jesus repeatedly invites us to “Come and see... Follow me” (1:39,43), words echoed by Philip to Nathaniel (1:46b). And what we witness in our Christian walk is a Jesus who consistently calls his followers to love God, love one another, love their enemies, love the least and the lost, love like Jesus loves. When we shape our lives according to the love of Christ, what unexpected discoveries we make! 

A few years ago, I challenged a church to join me in a “Good News Challenge.” For several weeks we gave up reading or watching bad news on TV and the internet. Instead we read scripture and looked for the Good News of God’s kingdom breaking forth in the world around us. And we looked for ways to be witnesses to the Good News of what Jesus is doing. It was a transformative experience of positivity, love, and grace! 

Isn't that our United Methodist mission? “To make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world.” Wouldn’t you like a better world? ... What are you going to do about it? 

If you really want 2024 to be a new and better year than 2023, then it’s time to set a different tone. Whether it’s your online life or your day-to-day chats with family, friends, co-workers, and strangers, this year let us focus on the kingdom love of Jesus Christ and share it widely. Less cursing, more blessing! 

Prayer: Dear Lord, so far today I’ve done alright. I haven’t gossiped, haven’t lost my temper, haven’t been greedy, grumpy, nasty, selfish, or over-indulgent. I’m really glad about that. But in a few minutes, I’m going to get out of bed. And from then on, I’ll be needing your help. Amen. 

(https://www.beliefnet.com/prayers/protestant/morning/morning-prayer.aspx) 

Author: Park Hunter - UM District Superintendent, North East District

After a four-year delay, the 2020 General Conference will take place April 23-May 3, 2024 in Charlotte, NC.

Over the next several weeks, the Virginia Conference of the UMC will be sharing resources to prepare United Methodists in Virginia for the upcoming General Conference. These resources, which will include videos, podcasts, and print resources, will be available through the conference social media channels and on a dedicated conference webpage. That can be found at https://vaumc.org/gc2024

Check out this premiere video featuring Bishop Sue Haupert-Johnson, Lay Leader Martha Stokes, and Director of Connectional Ministries for Innovation and Creativity Jonathan Page!

On February 18, 2024, Donna Parker, the chairperson of Church Council for Pender UMC, addressed the congregation about the General Conference of the United Methodist Church, which is a global assembly of delegates occurring every four years to govern the church, in lieu of a singular spiritual head.

She mentioned the specially called conference in 2019 and the postponed 2020 conference, now rescheduled for April 23 in Charlotte, North Carolina, with subsequent conferences in 2026 and 2028 to realign with the original schedule.

With around 2,000 legislative issues expected at the upcoming conference, the Church Council and Pastor Bruce feel it's crucial to inform the congregation about the conference's workings and potential impacts on Pender.

To facilitate this, meetings are scheduled for the week of March 10th, with both in-person and possible Zoom participation. These sessions aim to educate the congregation, address their questions, and ensure everyone is informed.

Donna emphasizes the importance of an educated congregation for effectively addressing church issues and asks for prayers for the church's leadership as they navigate these challenges.

NEWS from the Delegation

VAUMC General Conference Delegation Endorses Christmas Covenant Regionalization Plan.

Overview

The VAUMC General Conference Delegation unanimously supports the Christmas Covenant regionalization plan as the wisest and most hopeful way forward for the United Methodist Church. At the June 2023 Annual Conference, the General Conference Delegation made a short presentation on this matter. The Virginia Annual Conference then voted to endorse the Christmas Covenant regionalization plan as well.

In September 2023, the authors of the Christmas Covenant joined with the Connectional Table and the Standing Committee on Central Conference Matters to submit updated regionalization legislation for General Conference. This updated plan will be considered at General Conference 2024. If this regionalization plan passes, Annual Conferences will have to vote to ratify the resultant constitutional amendments. We, the General Conference delegation, are grateful that the Virginia Annual Conference voted to endorse the Christmas Covenant regionalization plan in advance of the 2024 General Conference.

Regionalization FAQs

Finance Chairman David Kinard brings an exciting update to the Pender community about our dynamic financial endeavor, the "Bridge of Hope" campaign. This initiative isn't just a campaign; it's a journey towards a brighter future for our church, and every member's contribution is a pivotal step on this bridge.

As of March 7, 2024, our collective efforts have already amassed a remarkable $159, 380! What's even more heartening is that $10,000 of this is a matching grant from a generous member of our church family. This means every contribution to the "Bridge of Hope" is effectively doubled, up to an astounding $92,000. Every penny you give becomes two, making your impact even more significant.

Pamela and I are personally committed to this cause. All our weekly offerings are now channeled directly to the "Bridge of Hope," ensuring we fully leverage this matching opportunity. We encourage you to consider doing the same. Remember, undesignated funds go into our general fund, so let's be intentional with our giving. It's as simple as marking "Bridge of Hope" on your check, envelope, or selecting it from the dropdown menu when giving online.

Our goal is to maximize this matching gift and double our financial strength. This campaign is more than just numbers; it's about sustaining our beloved church's future. Over the past few years, our savings have dwindled as we've struggled to cover monthly expenses. The "Bridge to Hope" is our path to financial stability, ensuring we don't deplete our reserves.

To help everyone understand the depth and importance of this campaign, we've prepared informative handouts and giving cards available in the Pender narthex. These include answers to frequently asked questions and contact information for any further queries you might have.

Join us in this remarkable journey of faith and generosity. Let's seize this opportunity to double our impact and secure our church's financial future. Your participation in the "Bridge of Hope" campaign is not just a donation; it's an investment in the heart and soul of our Pender community.

To give, click here and choose "Bridge of Hope" - thank you!

Hello Pender Family!

We're excited to see all the wonderful meetings and gatherings being planned within our community! To ensure everything runs smoothly, we kindly ask that all Pender meetings, whether they're happening on-campus, off-campus, or virtually via Zoom, be included on the church calendar. This little step helps us all stay connected and informed.

If you're looking to request a meeting, it's super easy! Just fill out this form, and voilà, you're on your way. We'll send you an email to let you know once your event is approved. Just a heads-up: if a room is already booked, we won't be able to schedule your event there, but we'll do our best to find a great alternative for you.

We appreciate your patience in waiting for the approval of your meeting. We know you're eager to get together, but it's best to hold off on resuming meetings until you get the green light. This ensures that your space is confirmed and ready for you. Remember, completing the form is the first step, but your room isn't booked until you receive that approval email.

Thanks for helping everything run like clockwork at Pender! We can't wait to see all the amazing things you'll be doing in your meetings. 

Questions or need help? Email webmaster@penderumc.org.

Blessings and Happy Planning!

Meeting this Saturday (3/9/2024)

All are welcome to join us for a discussion to consider “Questions in Faith” that pertain to us all, no matter our station of life or faith. 

We will meet in the library at 10:30 to talk about biblical answers to questions about God, faith, and life that relate to us all. 

If you plan to come, contact me to make arrangement to get you a study book that will be the basis of our discussion. 

Bring your Bible with you and invite a friend.  

Lectio Divina, or “divine reading” is a traditional Christian practice that helps you dive deeply into a passage of scripture and see how God speaks to you.

The group reads a Bible passage, reflects on the passage, responds to what God’s word is saying to us and rests to meditate on the Bible passage.

The group is meeting by Zoom. This event is every Thursday except for the first Thursday of each month, Thanksgiving, and other holidays to be determined.

Please contact Carol-Anne Kay or Arlet Williams for Zoom information.

Support our First Responders by helping us restock our Rest Stop.

The following donations are currently needed:16 oz bottled water and energy drinks.

Donations can be dropped off in the Church Office.

Our officers continually let us know how blessed they are to have a safe place here at Pender! In turn, we are safer because of their presence!

The scheduled UMM Breakfast planned for this Saturday has been cancelled due to the facilitator having been tested positive for COVID.

It will be rescheduled and communicated in a future announcement.

Hi Sunday School Families & Friends, 

There are some wonderful family/children's activities happening ithis year. Please come and enjoy! All are welcome -- and invite a friend!

Discover a supportive space for new beginnings! Join us every Wednesday at 6:00 PM in the serene ambiance of Pender UMC's Library.

At 5:00 PM there is a time of casual chat, known as the "meeting before the meeting".

Engage in meaningful conversations and find camaraderie at our AA meetings, guided by the experienced Tom O, a dedicated long-term member.

These are open meetings.

OPEN (Open to anyone interested in Alcoholics Anonymous' program of recovery from alcoholism)

DISCUSSION (Group participation in discussion of topic relevant to the AA program)

STEP (Group discussion of the 12 steps of AA)

Pender VBS Registration is open!

VBS will be the week of June 24 through June 28

In the bustling, whimsical world of Hero Hotline Headquarters, superheroes of every shape, size, and superpower come together under the watchful eye of the wise Professor and the legendary Super Meer, a daring Meerkat hero.

Here, in this vibrant hub of heroism, young and old heroes alike answer the call of duty, joining forces to lend their extraordinary talents to Hero Teams across the globe.

Whether it's solving perplexing puzzles, battling dastardly villains, or rescuing those in peril, these superheroes are always ready to save the day with a dash of fun, a sprinkle of humor, and a whole lot of heart.

Register at https://penderumc.org/vbs

Eggstravaganza Alert for 150 Little Explorers!

Get ready for a spectacular Outdoor Easter Egg Hunt, where adventure awaits and excitement is just a hop away! This event is a dream-come-true for every bunny in the family - from the tiniest of tots to the coolest of kids.

Here’s what’s in store:

• Egg-citing Easter Egg Hunt: Dash and dart through the great outdoors on a quest to find the most eggs!
• Nature's Palette of Eggs: Dive into a world where vibrant eggs are nestled among spring's finest backdrops.
• Snack-a-thon Station: Refuel with scrumptious snacks, popcorn that pops with flavor, and lemonade as sweet as spring.
• Sunshine and Smiles: Bask in the glow of the sun and the joy of the day with friends and family.
• Goodie Bags & Raffle Fun: Every explorer gets a goodie bag and a raffle ticket for a chance to win egg-cellent prizes.
• Bunny Bingo & Bunny Hop: Get your game face on for Bunny Bingo and show off your best moves in the Bunny Hop.
• Safe for All: We’ve got allergy-friendly options, so every child can join the thrill of the hunt.

Gather Your Baskets!

• Date: March 30, 2024
• Time: 10:30 AM - 12 PM
• Check-In: 9:45 Pender. Be on time to grab your child's goodie bag and raffle ticket!

Three Age Divisions: Ensuring fair play and fun for all, with little ones, middles, and big kids each having their own egg-ventures.

Don't miss out on this springtime fiesta! Bring your baskets, wear your sunniest smiles, and let’s hop into a day of joy and jolly-good fun!

See you at the starting line, egg-hunters!

Schedule:

Outside:

10:30-11:00 Preschool age egg hunt

11:00-11:30 Kindergarten- second grade egg hunt

11:30-12:00 2rd-6th grade egg hunt

Inside while the hunts are happening:

Cottontail Cafe - popcorn and lemonade

Brief film

Bunny Bingo and prizes for EVERY child.

Bunny Hop Dance

Raffle for 2 local merchant gift cards every half hour!

At noon - final raffle for large, loaded Easter basket!!

It's free, but we can only accommodate 150 children plus their parents. Please let us know you're coming!

Spring is coming! Please support BSA Troop 1530’s Mulch Sale!

Order at: www.bsatroop1530mulch.org

We are keeping the price same at $5.50 per bag this year. Delivery is free to your driveway starting March 9^th and ending by March 16^th.

(Also accepting donations, if mulch is not on your shopping list this year.)

Thank YOU for your consideration and support!

You can get a supportive text message and Bible verse on your phone everyday by texting the word "hope" to 540-712-6275.

Unsubscribe any time.

Western Fairfax Christian Ministries ("WFCM") Current Request for Donations

WFCM has been providing food and services to the community for 35 years. Pender was one of the twelve founding churches that set the path and began the journey. Becky Bryan is our current liaison with WFCM.

Thanks goes out to all of you who continue to support WFCM many programs.

~~~

The WFCM blue cart is outside the church.

WFCM pantry needs:

• Canned peaches and canned fruit cocktail, no sugar added
• Oatmeal, grits
• Canned tomatoes, stewed or crushed
• Risotto
• Brown rice
• Toiletries: toothpaste, lotion, toilet paper

All donations of food and toiletries are welcomed and needed.

Please no:

* Expired food

* Glass jars

* Egg Cartons

Thank you for your continuing generous support of WFCM.

The WFCM Food Pantry is accepting outside donations at their address below. There is a greater need for food but fewer donations.

You can also help by ordering from Amazon for delivery to WFCM. Rice, beans, canned fruit, diapers (Sizes 4, 5, 6), pasta, pasta sauce, etc.



                   WFCM

                   4511 Daly Drive, Suite J

                   Chantilly, VA 20151

Financial contributions are also accepted (cash, check or through our website). Please mark your tax deductible donation "WFCM Food Pantry." This will be recorded on your giving statement.

Thank you for your continuing support of WFCM. In 2021, Pender donated 6,128.74 pounds of food and personal care items to help the needy in the community. Thank you for your ongoing and generous support of WFCM.

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.