• October 19, Fall Festival/Trunk or Treat
• October 20, Information Session
• October 20, Flood Bucket Assembly
• October 25, Information Session
• October 26, United Women of Faith General Membership Breakfast
• October 26, Church Council
• October 27, JDC, Juvenile Detention Center
• November 2, Bread of Life Ministry
• November 3, All Saints Sunday
• November 3, Fellowship Feast
• November 10, Charge Conference
• November 16, Faith Promise Missions Meeting will be followed by a Pot Luck Luncheon
• November 23, Sacred Harmony Concert
• November 24, Consecration Sunday
• December 7, Christmas Caroling
• December 10, Santa's Ride
• December 14, Breakfast with Santa
• January 12, Poetry Slam

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 Time TBD
• Connections Adult Class Time TBD
• The Seeker Sunday School Class meets at 9:00 am.
• Pray for Pender
• The Impact Youth Group at 5:00 pm
• Monday
• Fun with Music
• Book Squad!
• Mary Martha Circle, online
• Tuesday
• Handbell rehearsals
• Pastor Bruce Bible Study
• Wednesday
• Ruth Circle
• AA Meetings at 6pm
• Thursday
• Pastor Bruce Bible Study
• Lectio Divina Prayer Group
• Choir Rehearsal at 6:30
• Praise Band Rehearsal at 7:30

Check here for other meetings.

All Pender Meetings run by the school year. Recurring meetings (weekly or monthly) taking place after June 30, 2024 will need to be scheduled again for the 2024-2025 school year.

Pender Members and Pender-sponsored groups such as Boy Scouts should go here, click add event. Please list your first-choice of room number. 

You will get an email when your event is approved. Note that you cannot add an event to a room that is already reserved for another meeting.

Dear Church Family:

Have you ever had a period in your life when everything seemed to be coming at you at once? When there were more tasks and responsibilities than hours in the day? When the load seemed too heavy to bear?

Of course you have. We have all had such times and likely will again. We say about those seasons, “It’s just one thing after another.” And as the burdens mount, it can feel overwhelming if I feel that it is all up to me to face the challenges and respond wisely and lovingly, if I’m operating only by my own wisdom and strength.  

As Christians, when we face the difficulties of extraordinary times, we find hope and take consolation in knowing that, as Paul wrote from prison, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me” (Philippians 4:13). Those words were recently stenciled on the hallway leading to my study at the church, and they have served as a powerful reminder to me of the truth and grace of God that infinitely surpasses my own strength and that is available to me in every circumstance as I strive to follow Christ daily.  

The stencil on the other side of the hallway reminds me of my purpose in every season: “Whatever you do, do all for the glory of God” (1 Corinthians 10:31). 

Churches too face such challenges from time to time and need a renewed sense of purposeful direction.  

As members and friends of Pender UMC, many of you know that we are living together through a transitional season in these days. Changes are coming that will impact us all and our future together as a congregation. Some of us have been working deliberately for months to address the known challenges facing us and for wisdom to discern what is not yet clear. Many more of us have been praying for God’s will to be accomplished in our Pender family in this time, for the strength of Christ in all things to follow in his holy way, and for God’s glory to be manifested in us through it all.  

As your pastor, I see powerful signs that our prayers are being answered, and the glory, power, and Spirit of the risen Lord is coming to pass in new ways and in every needed way. As one thing after another comes toward us, the glory of God is our aim and the Son of God our strength.  

The time has now come for all of us together to consider God’s new work among our Pender family and to give our input.

Elsewhere in this newsletter you will see an invitation to important conversations taking place soon at Pender. On October 20 following worship, and again on Friday, October 25 at 7:00, we will hear from our Council Chairperson, Lay Leader, Finance Chair, and myself about new developments, pending decisions, and hopeful possibilities for our life together in Christ’s service. You will also have a chance to give your feedback and ask pertinent and needed questions. These conversations will be of interest to each of us, and I strongly encourage every member and congregant to participate in one session or the other. You are, of course, welcome to attend both if you wish.  

Yes, the Body of Christ at Pender is living through a consequential season that demands attentiveness and faithfulness from us all. How good to know that in this time God’s glory shines on us, the strength of Christ enables us, and the Holy Spirit is providing everything necessary for us to live into the new day of God’s purpose at Pender. I hope you will join us to prayerfully consider and discuss these issues, so that we might move together into the glorious future of God our Maker and Savior.   

I am grateful to be following the living Lord with you in these days,

Pastor Bruce

Hurricane Flood Relief

The United Methodist Church in keeping with our Wesleyan heritage of embodying the gospel in acts of charity, is quickly responding to the great human need following the flooding in North Carolina and elsewhere. The Virginia Conference is encouraging every congregation to contribute to UMCOR (United Methodist Committee on Relief) that is already on the ground to bring relief to the suffering.  

Next Sunday, October 13, we will receive a special offering in worship for UMCOR. Please make out your check to Pender UMC and mark it for “Flood Buckets.” If you are donating online, you may go to Pender’s Giving page and mark your donation for Flood Buckets.  

One hundred percent of the money will be used to buy the requested items in bulk. The 5 gallon buckets have a specific inventory list from UMCOR. Each one costs $75.00 and our goal is to raise money for as many as possible.

Sunday, October 20, we will assemble Flood Buckets after the Information Session

Thank you for helping Pender to respond to human need with Christ-like compassion.

Pastor Bruce and your Church Leadership would like to discuss some information with the congregation prior to our annual Charge Conference in November. 

Please plan to attend one of two information sessions happening this month. 

The first session will be immediately following the worship service on Sunday, October 20th and the second will be in the evening of Friday, October 25th at 7 pm. 

Both sessions will be in the Gathering Place and all are encouraged to attend.

On the fourth Sunday of the month, October 27, people in the Pender community lead a one hour worship service at Fairfax Juvenile Detention Center (JDC). This worship service supports teenagers (7th to 12th grade) and the staff.

Worship service is from 1:30 to 2:30 PM. Volunteers are asked to meet at JDC at 1:15 PM. You do not need to have any special skills, just a willing heart and spirit to share the gospel with teens and young adults.

Great artists take numerous musical styles and influences, add their own talents and personality, and create a unique sound all their own. Sacred Harmony personifies that. With a sound unlike any other group in Gospel music, the Tennessee-based trio is breaking through barriers with their blended style.

       Over the last few years, the trio has been blessed to perform at numerous major events across the nation on concert stages with groups like -The Hoppers, Jason Crabb, The Nelons, ,The Blackwood Brothers Quartet, Michael Combs, The Guardians, The Lefevres and many more than can mention. Sacred Harmony performed at the American Gospel Celebration hosted by Pastor John Hagee, one of their favorites. Because of their crossover appeal, they have even been invited to sing for sold out crowds with artists such as Larry Gatlin and TG Sheppard. They have led worship in large contemporary cathedrals , universities and at small country churches of all denominations and are regulars at major events such as THE ARK ENCOUNTER, KENTUCKY OPRY, DOLLYWOOD, NATIONAL QUARTET CONVENTION, etc. “Our passion is not where we sing but rather who we sing about. Our goal is to impact people wherever God opens the door, to share the love of His son Jesus Christ,” stated Janet Weaver, the founder. 

      With over two decades of ministry behind them, Sacred Harmony has seen God do some mighty things in their lives and in their music. There most recent ten years led them to the decision to travel more extensively and in 2016 they signed with Butler Music Group in Nashville, TN. Soon after they released their "BELIEVE" CD , which proved to be a breakout album for the group. They partnered with Grammy award winners and Gospel music icons, the Fairfield Four, to record the song, “BURY THE WORKMAN.” Much like that song, the entire album highlighted the abilities of Sacred Harmony to glean from other genres while making a song their own. In 2017, Sacred Harmony was honored to take home the "SUNRISE TRIO OF THE YEAR" award at the SGN Scoops Diamond Awards. They were recognized as a Top 5 nominee for "Video of the Year.-LET YOUR LIGHT SHINE"  In 2018 they were presented "A Day of Recognition" proclamation from  Governor of Tennessee, Bill Haslam followed by 3 Top-80 songs on the National Singing News Chart from their "BELIEVE" CD -"JESUS DID WHAT HE CAME TO DO", “GRAVE ROBBER” and "UP TO SOMETHING" in 2018- 2020 with 2 more charting songs- top 40 "LET YOUR LIGHT SHINE" and top 80 "ONE IN THE NUMBER" both from a former cd project produced by Phil Cross "Champion Collection". 

     They spent 2019 & 2020 focusing on their CD project called “IT AIN'T OVER YET” with John Darin Rowsey, as arranger and Matthew Browder as producer at the phenominal Blackbird Studio in Nashville, TN. The project theme was appropriate with the tornados and the Covid 19 pandemic interruptions to finalize the vocals. It has been exciting what God is doing with this project since the first song was released to radio "SING JOY TO THE WORLD" which hit the Singing News Chart TOP 40 as well as SGN Scoops top 40. Their next release was another top 40 and recognized as "TOP NEW RADIO RELEASE " out to radio April 2021 "BREATHE IN, BREATHE OUT, written by Jason Crabb and John Darin Rowsey. Then came "IT AIN'T OVER YET" project title song which was a top 30 in Singing News and SGN Scoops followed by more charting songs in in 2022 “I Can't Wait” and in 2023 “I'VE GOT A FRIEND” and “HIGHER” .  God really worked thru their "IT AIN'T OVER YET TOUR" from the titled CD and online thru a themed Video produced by Godsey Media which was introduced in the fall 2021 , and can be viewed on Singing News TV channel, their website and You Tube channel. Sacred Harmony signed a media management agreement in 2020 with Godsey Media, the top in the industry , and continues to enjoy working with them today!  They released a new CHRISTMAS CD Oct 2022 which was recorded with Godsey Media with Scott Godsey and Paul Secord recorded in the world class Zenith Studio just on the outskirts of Music City of Nashville and it sure will set the mood for a time of worship of our Savior and celebration of his birth! Their recent 2024 charted radio release was “WORSHIP MY WAY HOME” title cut from their new worship CD which ushered in the “IT IS WELL TOUR” and they are excited to see how this new music will usher the holy spirit into the worship experience. However, their current radio release" Turn Your Eyes" has already charted with SGN Scoops and climbing to chart on the Singing News next month. Stay Tuned. 

      With so many blessings behind them, it’s what the future holds that is the most exciting as you will see a country style added to their set and new faces in 2024. “We are excited to see the doors that the Lord is opening to spread his word in song. We truly appreciate each church, each concert, and each person that we are blessed to worship with,” stated. Janet Weaver .

https://sacredharmony1.com/bio-our-story

Ministry opportunity - would you like to serve your church and the Lord?

Please consider signing up to serve communion. We celebrate this sacrament on the first Sunday of each month and on other special Sundays throughout the year. 

Please contact Donna Parker at musicalmother@gmail.com if you would like to be a part of this wonderful ministry.

We need you! Our wonderful and dedicated children's Sunday School teachers deserve the opportunity to attend the worship service with their families. 

There are sign up sheets in the Narthex with two slots available each Sunday between now and the end of the year. 

You do not have to plan any lessons or even teach. 

We are just in need of extra hands and eyes in each of the two classrooms. 

Please prayerfully consider volunteering for just one Sunday and give our teachers a blessing. 

You will be equally blessed!! 

There will be two clear tubs in the Narthex labeled "Trunk-or-Treat donations".

All candy must be individually wrapped.

Thanks to all contributors for being SO SWEET!!

Pender's Annual Trunk or Treat is returning bigger and better than ever!

Get ready for some fall fun! Join us for the Pender Fall Festival on October 19, from 2-4 pm in the church parking lot.

Here’s what’s in store:

Trunk or Treat – Wear your costumes and collect tons of candy! (Hint - adults can dress up, too)

S’mores Station– Snack on ooey-gooey s’mores!

Karaoke Station – Show off your singing skills with your favorite tunes!

Estimation Station – Test your guessing skills and see how close you get!

Bring your family, friends, and all your fall vibes for an afternoon of fun! You won’t want to miss it!

This will be a lot of fun for everyone.

Calling All Musicians: Join Our Church's Vibrant Music Ministry! 🎶🙌

Are you passionate about music? Do you feel called to share your musical gifts in a community of faith? Pender is seeking talented musicians to join our vibrant Music Ministry team and contribute to our uplifting and spiritually enriching worship services!

What We're Looking For:

• Instrumentalists: Whether you shine on the strings, whisper with the woodwinds, or resonate with the brass, we need your skills to fill our sanctuary with harmonious sounds.
• Vocalists: Sopranos, altos, tenors, and basses—lend your voices to help lead our congregation in song and praise.
• Handbell Ringers: We will teach you to play during our services and special events.

Why Join Us?

• Community Impact: Through your music, you can touch the hearts of our congregation and inspire joy and contemplation in our weekly gatherings.
• Spiritual Growth: Participate in a ministry that not only serves others but also nurtures your own faith and connection to the divine.
• Musical Development: Collaborate with experienced musicians and vocalists that will help you hone your craft and explore new musical opportunities.

Get Involved:

• Rehearsals: We meet weekly to practice and prepare, ensuring every service is both spiritually and musically fulfilling.
• Sunday Services: Be a part of our regular worship schedule and special holiday performances that highlight the church calendar.
• Community Outreach: Occasionally, our music ministry participates in local events and services, expanding our impact beyond the church walls.

If you're excited about making a joyful noise unto the Lord and enhancing our worship experiences, we would love to hear from you! Contact our Music Director today to learn more about how you can get involved.

Let your talent soar in a place where music meets ministry, and together, we'll create beautiful worship experiences that resonate with all who attend.

Join us and be a key note in our melody of faith! 🎵✨

Blessing Box

Pender has a Blessing Box at the end of the driveway near the lower parking lot which could always use donations. When you’re near Pender, please pay it forward and share a few groceries with those in need. There is no lock on it- it’s open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

“Take what you need.

Leave what you can.

Little becomes much

In the Master’s hand.”

Hebrews 13:16: “Do not neglect to do good and to share what you have, for such sacrifices are pleasing to God.”

No clothing, note cards, calendars, plastic utensils, glass items, expired food, fresh, or frozen food items.

Some ideas:

Rice

Dry beans (red, black, pink, pinto, black recipes)

Pasta

Canned spaghetti sauce (traditional)

Canned tomato sauce

Canned diced or whole tomatoes 

Canned tomato paste

Flour

Sugar

Yeast packets 

Baking powder

Baking soda

Oil

Salt

Pepper

Soy sauce

Taco seasoning mix

Canned tuna

Canned mackerel 

Canned chicken 

Canned salmon 

Spam

Canned luncheon meat

Canned fruit (packed in juice)

Canned jalapeños

Canned adobo peppers

Oatmeal

Grits

Yellow or white cornmeal

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

The following donations are currently needed: individual packages of chips, beef jerky, 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!

Pender Hill School will be collecting toys for the Santa's Ride program again this year. We are excited to work with the Fairfax County Police Motor Squad to collect new toys and books for children in local hospitals.

Coming soon - Items can be donated in the marked bins in the Church Lobby and the downstairs Preschool hallway until December 10.

The date for the motorcycle Santa, will be December 10^th.

Please contact Sarah Hocker with any questions.

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") Current Request for Donations

WFCM has been providing food and services to the community for 37 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.  Please contact her with any questions.

In May more than 700 families were provided groceries from the Food Pantries, a 15% increase over May of 2023. Serving more families means we have a greater opportunity to make an impact with our donations. 

There are multiple ways you can support this community ministry.  The ways we hear of most often are donations of goods or money. Another way to participate is through volunteering of time to work in the Food Pantry.  If you are interested in volunteering, contact the WFCM office or Becky Bryan.

Financial donations to be used to stock the Food Pantry can be made to Pender to be forwarded to WFCM.  In a recent newsletter, WFCM explained that, because of the savings that flow out of bulk purchases, a donation of $100 is used to purchase the equivalent of $600 of food. 

For donations of food and toiletry items, you may leave your gifts in the grocery cart located by Pender’s front doors.  OR, you can order from Amazon for direct delivery to WFCM at 4511 Daly Drive, Suite J, Chantilly, VA 20151.

~~~

The WFCM blue cart is between the two front doors of the church.

Most needed items in the Free Food Market this month:

• Flour (Maseca preferred)
• Sugar (1 or 2 lb. bags)
• Vegetable Oil 
• Pasta Sauce
• Pasta
• Cereal (low sugar preferred)
• Pancake Mix 
• Family Sized Snacks (crackers, pretzels) 
• Canned Chicken 
• Toiletries: bar soap, body wash, toothpaste, hair shampoo, toilet paper, and baby wipes (NOTE: we are not currently in need of diapers size 0-5 due to our partnership with Greater DC Diaper Bank. Please only donate larger size pull ups size 4T/5T for toddlers, size 6 diapers, or baby wipes if you want to donate items for babies.)

Please only donate larger size pull ups size 4T/5T for toddlers, size 6 diapers, or baby wipes if you want to donate items for babies.

Please no:

* Expired food

* Glass jars

* Egg Cartons

Read this month's WFCM Newsletter.

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.