• Today through June 20, sign up for VBS 2025
• Today through June 1 Submit Info for Graduation Sunday
• May 25, JDC/Juvenile Detention Center
• May 28, AA Meeting
• May 31, Bread of Life
• May 31, Chris Atwood Foundation HopeFest 2025
• June 1, Last Day to Submit Info for Graduation Sunday
• June 1, NO Fellowship Feast!
• June 7, United Women in Faith General Meeting
• June 7, A Celebration of Bach
• June 8, Graduation Sunday
• June 8, Light Luncheon for the graduates (potluck)
• June 23 to 27 - VBS 2025 "Road Trip"
• July 18 to 26 - Youth Mission to Philippi, WV
• August 16, Community Day and Welcome Back to School Festival

Weekly Events

• Sunday
• Children's Sunday School Classes. 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 relieve the Sunday School teachers so they may periodically 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
• Monday
• Fun with Music, Resuming September 8, 2025
• Mary Martha Circle, online
• Tuesday
• Handbell rehearsals
• Pastor Bruce Bible Study
• Wednesday
• Ruth Circle, will resume 17, 2025
• AA Meetings at 6pm
• Thursday
• Pastor Bruce Bible Study
• Lectio Divina Prayer Group
• Choir Rehearsal at 6:30

Check here for other meetings.

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 after June 30, 2025, you'll need to reschedule for the 2025–2026 year. You can start booking your dates on Monday, July 28, 2025.

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!

Pender Hill Preschool teachers past and present gathered to wish Sarah Hocker a Happy Retirement.

Need a Pender Magnet for Your Car?

Show your Pender spirit on the road!

We have Pender UMC car magnets available in the church office.

Stop by and pick one up—while supplies last!

Do You Recognize This Cabinet?

If this cabinet looks familiar, you might have a mailbox inside!

It’s located near the elevators, and it could be holding something for you.

Please take a moment to stop by and check—your mail might be waiting!

On Sunday, May 18, 2025, Pender’s Impact Youth took the first meaningful steps in creating a vegetable garden to support The Lamb Center—a daytime drop-in shelter serving individuals experiencing homelessness in Fairfax, Virginia.

This slideshow captures special moments from that day as our youth worked together in service, compassion, and community.

🌱 The Garden Project is part of an ongoing mission to provide fresh vegetables to The Lamb Center, helping to nourish both body and spirit for our neighbors in need.

🎶 The background music, “In the Garden,” was performed by Heidi Jacobs as a prelude to Pender's Traditional Worship Service on August 15, 2024.

We are proud of our youth and their heart for service. May their hands continue to plant seeds of hope.

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!

Singing at Sunrise – Team Members Needed!

Do you love sharing music, scripture, and encouragement? We’re forming a new outreach team to bring joy and worship to residents of a local assisted living facility—and we’d love for you to be part of it!

🎶 What is Singing at Sunrise?

A monthly 30–40 minute gathering (currently considering the 4th Sunday of each month) featuring favorite hymns, scripture readings, and prayer. We'll have a printed packet of beloved songs available—and we’ll even take requests on the spot!

🧡 What We Need:

We’re looking for supportive people of all kinds—singers, readers, instrumentalists, and those who just want to be present and participate. No rehearsals are planned, though we may have brief prep meetings.

🎹 Instrumentalists Welcome!

Jane McKee expects to accompany but is happy to share that role if someone else would like to play. All instrumentalists—piano, guitar, and more—are welcome!

🗣️ No Solo Speakers Required

This isn’t about having one designated leader. Instead, we hope to form a team where everyone can contribute. When this ministry existed in the past, different members took turns offering brief reflections month to month.

🙌 Let’s Create Something Together

Right now, this ministry is still in the planning stage. Jane and Andy are working to form the core team, and your ideas, energy, and presence could help shape the future of this outreach.

Interested?

Let us know if you'd like to be part of this meaningful and joy-filled ministry.

All are welcome!

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:

• A variety of braces for back, knee and wrist
• Rolling walker with basket
• Canes
• Blood Pressure Monitor
• Polar Active Ice Therapy
• Crutches

On Loan

• Wheelchair
• Rolling Walker

On Mother’s Day, the Fourth Sunday of Easter (May 11, 2025), the Pender UMC choir sang the uplifting hymn “Everlasting God,” directed by Patrick King, Director of Music Ministries. The performance featured Heidi Jacobs on piano and Kenneth Carr on percussion.

Originally co-written in 2004 by Brenton Brown and Stuart Townend, Everlasting God emerged from a season of personal hardship. Diagnosed with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, Brenton Brown drew strength from Scripture’s portrayal of God as eternal and unwavering—truths he desperately needed during a time of weakness.

This modern worship classic has since become a source of encouragement for believers worldwide, especially those enduring chronic illness, fatigue, or hardship. With its message of renewed strength through faith, Everlasting God continues to resonate deeply.



“The Lord is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth. He will not grow tired or weary…” — Isaiah 40:28

The Story Behind the Song

Brenton Brown, a Rhodes Scholar and Christian musician, was diagnosed with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome in 2003, alongside his wife. What could have been a season of despair became a source of deep spiritual insight. During this time of physical weakness, Brown clung to Scripture passages that describe God as everlasting, tireless, and faithful.

In collaboration with Stuart Townend—another major name in contemporary worship—Brown poured his heart into writing “Everlasting God,” a song that resonated not only with his personal journey but also with countless others facing trials.

“Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall, but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength.”
— Isaiah 40:30–31

A Worship Staple

Since its release, Everlasting God has become a favorite in churches across denominations. It reminds us that no matter our limitations, we worship a God who does not grow faint. This message was especially meaningful as we honored the strength, love, and resilience of mothers on this special day.

Let the words of Everlasting God echo in your heart: “Strength will rise as we wait upon the Lord…”

Read more at https://penderumc.org/pender-blog/hymn-history-everlasting-god/

Join Us for Bread of Life!

Get ready to roll up your sleeves and spread some love!

What: Bread of Life – A chance to give back to the community!

When: Saturday, May 31 from 9:00 AM – 12:30 PM

Where: Pender UMC Kitchen

12401 Alder Woods Drive, Fairfax, VA 22033

Why join us?

• We provide all the ingredients. You bring your enthusiasm and a heart full of love!
• Meet new friends while making a real difference.
• Help those in need and feel the joy of giving back.

All are welcome! Whether you're a seasoned chef or just love the smell of fresh bread, there's a spot for you in our kitchen. Together, we can knead some dough and do good!

See you there – let’s make magic happen!

We are very proud of our 2025 ALL of our high school, trade, technical, apprentice, vocational, college, and post-doctoral graduates and plan to honor them during our Worship Service on Sunday, June 8 at 10am.

A slideshow of our graduates will be shown at the beginning of our worship service.

Questions can be directed to Jane McKee or Arlet Williams

Please let us know about your graduate here.

HopeFest Tickets are On-Sale Now!

Tickets are now available for HopeFest 2025 — don’t miss out on this incredible day of food, fun, and fellowship in support of The Chris Atwood Foundation’s mission to save lives and support recovery!

📅 Saturday, May 31st

📍 Pender United Methodist Church, Fairfax, VA

Enjoy BBQ, raffles, live music, games, and more — all while making a difference in the lives of those impacted by substance use disorder.

Get your tickets today and please consider making a donation of $20 at checkout to help us cover the cost of food and supplies. Just make sure to reserve a ticket in advance so we know how much BBQ to have prepared!

Every contribution helps us continue providing hope and vital support to those on their recovery journey. Invite your friends and family — let’s come together for a day filled with hope, recovery, and community!

GET TICKETS NOW

From HopeFest 2024:

A Message from the Finance Committee

Dear Pender,

Thank you for your generous gifts to Pender and its many ministries.

We have recently analyzed the financial data from January and were concerned that our offerings were about a third less than what we projected based on the annual estimate of giving cards that were turned in late last year.

While we realize that everyone has a different pattern of giving, we greatly appreciate those who are able to give on a regular basis so that we can pay our bills.

We would like to offer a gentle reminder for you to please update your offerings for 2025 if you have not already done so.

Thank you for your support of Pender and God’s work here.

The Finance Committee

As of April 30, 2025:

MTD actual revenue was $58,026;  YTD actual revenue was $198,604;

MTD actual expenses was $45,352; YTD actual expenses was $205,196;

MTD net gain was $12,674 ;      YTD net loss was ($6,592).

Save the Date! Pender VBS 2025 - Road Trip - is coming June 23 to 27th.

Want to volunteer or need the Zoom link? Contact Jane McKee

Signup here!

Help children discover God’s presence everywhere!

Embark on an exciting journey with Road Trip VBS is based on Joshua 1:9 – "The LORD your God is with you wherever you go." Discover God's presence everywhere as we explore new places, make new friends, and experience God's goodness together.

Join us in a fun-filled adventure on the open road, taking all the kids (Travelers) on thrilling journeys to exciting destinations. Led by the Navigator and an adventurous puppet Scout, kids will learn that God is always with them. Through engaging stories from the Navigators' Guide (the Bible), Travelers will delve into timeless tales of faith from the Old and New Testaments. Get ready for twists, turns, and excitement as they face new challenges and find strength in God's presence on this unforgettable trip!

Road trips are a great way to build strong relationships and create indelible memories. This makes Road Trip! VBS not only a fun experience for kids but also an opportunity for them to strengthen their faith and bond with others in their community. With engaging activities, interactive games, and meaningful lessons, children will have a blast while they grow in their understanding of God's love and promises for everyone.

Green Light: “The LORD your God is with you wherever you go.” (Joshua 1:9)

Mile Markers:

God is with us on the journey

God is with us when we go off course

God is with us when we’re joyful

God is with us when we’re lonely

God is with us near and far

Bible Stories

Session 1: Abraham and Sarah Follow God (Genesis 12:1-9)

Session 2: The Israelites Take the Scenic Route (Exodus 13:17-12)

Session 3: Mary & Elizabeth’s Family Reunion (Luke 1:39-56)

Session 4: Jesus Visits Zacchaeus (Luke 19:1-10)

Session 5: On the Road with Paul (Acts 18:1-11)

Teens! Think you're too old for VBS? NO Way!

Get ready for an epic summer adventure with Road Trip VBS 2025 this June!

Dive into a whirlwind of exciting activities where you can:

• 🌍 Champion the environment by sewing your own trendy bag.
• 🧶 Crochet cozy baby blankets for new moms in need.
• 🚗 Engineer and race your very own model car.
• 🍪 Whip up some delicious snacks in our baking blast sessions.
• 🔬 Unleash your inner scientist with mind-blowing experiments.
• 📖 Discover the daring deeds of amazing Biblical figures.

Kick off each day with a special mission to mentor the younger VBS adventurers before embarking on your own thrilling journey.

Spots are limited—sign up now to lock in your summer of fun and discovery!

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!

Western Fairfax Christian Ministries – WFCM - programs are designed to serve as a critical safety net to keep individuals and families in financial crisis housed and fed while providing resources, support, compassion services, and connections to help them work toward financial stability and food security. 

In 1987, Pender UMC along with 11 other local churches saw the need for coordinated aid and formed WFCM. Nearly 40 years later, its primary programs are the Emergency Food Program including two Free Food Markets, 15 satellite site refrigerators, and home delivery and Emergency Housing Financial Services Program (assisting with rent, mortgage, and utility bills) serving an average of 700 families/month, nearly 5,000 individuals/year. WFCM, the anchor community-based organization in Region 4 of Fairfax County, provides food and financial support to families at risk of hunger and homelessness in 9 zip codes in western Fairfax County (Centreville, Chantilly, Clifton, Fairfax, Fairfax Station, Herndon, and Oak Hill).

The WFCM Mission:

As an expression of God’s love and a demonstration of the gospel of Jesus Christ, Western Fairfax Christian Ministries provides food and financial support to those at risk of hunger and homelessness.

If you would like to participate in helping our neighbors, there are several ways 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. 

CURRENT MARKET NEEDS.

Food & Beverages​​​

• Flour
• Sugar (1 or 2 lb. bags)
• Vegetable Oil
• Kidney Beans and Garbanzo Beans
• Cereal (low sugar preferred)
• Hot Cereal
• Pasta Sauce (no glass containers please)
• Diced Tomatoes, Tomato Sauce, and Tomato Paste
• Canned Fruit (peaches, pears, pineapples)
• Family Sized Snacks (pretzels, crackers, nuts, seeds, etc.)
• Hot Beverages (ground coffee, tea bags, etc.)

​

Toiletries

NOTE: Toiletry items cannot be purchased by our clients with SNAP​​

• Body Wash
• Toothpaste 
• Hair Shampoo
• Hair Conditioner 
• Feminine Hygiene Products (Pads preferred)
• Baby Wipes 

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.