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Sunday Worship:
In Person and
Streaming
10:00 am
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This Week at Pender
June 5, 2025
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By following Jesus
and reaching out to others,
we seek God's transformation
of ourselves and our world.
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Pentecost and Graduation Sunday June 8, 2025 “Led by the Spirit”
Join us for a special worship celebration on Pentecost Sunday and Graduation Sunday, as Pastor Bruce Johnson shares a message titled “Led by the Spirit.”
Scripture Readings:
Together, we’ll reflect on the gift of the Holy Spirit and what it means to be guided by God in every stage of life—from the first steps of faith to new beginnings for our graduates.
Come celebrate the movement of the Spirit and the achievements of our students. All are welcome!
There's no dress code - whether you prefer jeans and a t-shirt or a dress and suit, you'll fit right in.
Services are also posted in our sermon archive.
Join us in person or tune in live to witness this powerful reminder of faith and sacrifice. There's no dress code - whether you prefer jeans and a t-shirt or a dress and suit, you'll fit right in.
Join us live at Pender UMC
12401 Alder Woods Drive, Fairfax, VA US 22033
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Pender's Worship Service June 8, at 10:00 am will be in person and live-streamed. | | |
Sunday is Pentecost
From a historical perspective, Christianity didn’t start with Jesus’ birth, his death or even his storied ascension to heaven. It started with Pentecost — the day the “Holy Spirit” entered a room holding Jesus’ apostles and entered each of them, an event which — as my minister uncle tells me — “makes the church the church.”
Although Pentecost is chock full of religious significance, it is a holiday not widely celebrated. Sort of the opposite of Hanukkah, which is widely celebrated but not religiously important. My uncle says Pentecost is a bigger deal in liturgical churches, which follow a formal, standardized order of events (like Catholics). “Non-liturgical” refers to churches whose services are unscripted (like Baptists).
Back Story: At his Last Supper, Jesus legendarily instructed his 12 disciples to go out into the world to minister and heal the sick on their own. It was at that point that they became “apostles.” Fifty days after Jesus’ death, as the story goes, the Holy Spirit (part of the Holy Trinitity — God the Father, God the Son and God the Holy Spirit ) descended onto the apostles, making them speak in foreign tongues. This “Pentecostal” experience allowed the apostles direct communication with God, which signaled a major shift in the religious landscape and laid the foundation for what would become Christianity. You’ll notice that the disciples are always depicted in artwork as regular-looking men while the apostles are depicted with halos around their heads. (Several other apostles came later — namely the famous Paul who is credited with writing much of the New Testament.)
Although all the original 12 apostles are important, some get top billing. Here’s why:
- Peter (also called Simon Peter) established the first church in Antioch and is regarded as the founding pope of the Catholic church. Instrumental in the spread of early Christianity, Peter was said to have walked on water, witnessed the “Transfiguration of Jesus” and denied Jesus (for which he repented and was forgiven.) The Gospel of Mark is ascribed to Peter, as Mark was Peter’s disciple and interpreter.
- John also is said to have witnessed the Transfiguration of Jesus and went on to pen the Gospel of John, the Epistles of John and Book of Revelation. He died at age 94, having outlived the other apostles — all of whom, according to legend/history/whatever, were martyred. John is often described as “Jesus’ favorite” and depicted as the disciple sitting to Jesus’ right at the Last Supper.
- Thomas (“Doubting Thomas”) is best known for questioning Jesus’ resurrection when first told of it. According to the Bible, Thomas saw Jesus himself several days later and proclaimed “My Lord and my God,” to which Jesus famously responded: “Blessed are they that have not seen, and yet have believed.” (John 20:28.)
via Pentecost is this Sunday. What the heck is Pentecost?.
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"Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances for this is God's will for you in Jesus Christ. " 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
Pender is a church committed to the power of prayer. Our "prayer chain" is a group of church members constantly in prayer for the needs of our congregation. To make your prayer needs known, you may email the prayer chain by clicking here to send an email to our group of prayer warriors.
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Today through June 20, sign up for VBS 2025
- 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)
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June 11, AA Meeting
- June 21, Washington Korean Ensemble Concert
- June 22, JDC/Juvenile Detention Center/
- June 23 to 27 - VBS 2025 "Road Trip"
- June 29, “Laity of the Congregation” Sunday
- June 29, Church Council
- July 18 to 26 - Youth Mission to Philippi, WV
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August 16, Community Day and Welcome Back to School Festival
Weekly Events
- Sunday
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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
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Fun with Music, Resuming September 8, 2025
- Mary Martha Circle, online
- Tuesday
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Handbell rehearsals will resume in September
- Pastor Bruce Bible Study
- Wednesday
- Ruth Circle, will resume in September
- AA Meetings at 6pm
- Thursday
- Pastor Bruce Bible Study
- Lectio Divina Prayer Group
- Choir Rehearsal at 6:30
Check here for other meetings.
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Dear Church Family:
This Sunday is Pentecost Sunday, when Christians around the world will celebrate the event of the Holy Spirit— "the promise of the Father" — being poured out as holy fire and empowered speech upon the obedient and waiting disciples, at the request of Jesus the Son. In that moment the Church of Jesus Christ was born, and the world's great people first heard the good news about the crucified and risen Lord each in their own language. You can read all about it in Acts 2. My sermon this Sunday will focus on how we as children of God and Jesus' disciples are "led by the Spirit" (Romans 8:14), whom Jesus called the "Spirit of truth" and our "Advocate" (John 14:16-17).
In many ways, the church of Jesus Christ is equipped and empowered to walk in the way of Christ by the leading of the Spirit. In the coming week, United Methodist clergy and laity from across Virginia will gather in Roanoke VA for the 243rd session of the Virginia Annual Conference. This annual event is an occasion to worship, learn, plan, and make decisions about the church's mission and ministries in our shared life as United Methodist disciples and congregations. Mark Atwood and I will be going to the conference as Pender's designated representatives. As last year, we will also have Pender members serving as at-large NOVA district delegates. Please keep the conference and delegates in your prayers. Mark will present a report from the conference at a later date.
Our tangible commitment to the church's mission of compassionate outreach is one of the essential signs of the Holy Spirit's work among us. One of the important moments at the Annual Conference is the Offering for Missions that is collected from every UM church in Virginia to support our shared mission projects in the US and around the world. Pender's contribution to the offering this year is $1005 that was collected over the past week. Thanks to each of you who contributed generously to this connectional offering.
Another essential sign of the Spirit's leading in the church is our gathered worship and joyful singing. In our recent worship committee meeting, I discovered that it has long been Pender's practice to sing requested hymns and songs during the summer months. I was pleased, for this has been my practice too throughout my pastoral career. So, this summer we will incorporate once again your favorite hymns into our order of worship. If you have a favorite hymn or song from the UM Hymnal or The Faith We Sing, please jot down the name and number and leave it in the church office. We will make sure to include it in our worship during July or August.
The Church led by the Spirit is Christ-centered and mission oriented. I am grateful to be worshiping, learning, and serving among a people who desire to know, love, and follow Christ, and to share his redeeming love generously with others that they too may become his joyful and faithful disciples.
Pastor Bruce
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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!
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HopeFest 2025 at Pender UMC
A Day of Hope, Recovery, and Community!
On Saturday, May 31st, Pender United Methodist Church hosted HopeFest 2025, a powerful day of food, fun, and fellowship in support of The Chris Atwood Foundation’s mission to save lives and support recovery.
Guests enjoyed BBQ, raffles, live music, games, and more—all while helping raise awareness and support for individuals and families impacted by substance use disorder.
Thanks to generous donations—including $20 contributions at checkout—we were able to cover food and supply costs and make a meaningful impact.
Every ticket reserved helped us plan ahead and ensure plenty of BBQ and activities for everyone. Most importantly, every contribution supported continued efforts to bring hope and healing to those on the recovery journey.
Thank you to everyone who came out, gave, and served. Together, we made a difference!
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Pender United Women in Faith Fellowship Breakfast, Meeting and Installation Service
📅 Saturday, June 7 | 🕤 9:30 AM | 📍 Pender UMC Gathering Place
Join us for a meaningful morning of fellowship, food, and faith as we gather for our Fellowship Breakfast, followed by a brief meeting and installation service for new leadership.
All women are welcome! Come be inspired and connected in community.
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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!
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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!
There also may be a yummy surprise inside.
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On Sunday, June 1, 2025, Pender’s Impact Youth continued their mission to bless our neighbors by expanding the vegetable garden for The Lamb Center—a daytime drop-in shelter for individuals experiencing homelessness in Fairfax, Virginia.
In this phase of the project, our youth planted:
🍅 Tomatoes
🥒 Cucumbers
🌶️ Peppers
🌿 Basil, Dill, Sage, Rosemary, Thyme & Cilantro
🌼 Marigolds (for pollinators!)
This slideshow captures joyful moments from the day as our young people got their hands dirty for a great cause. Their dedication is a powerful reminder of how small acts of service can sow seeds of hope and nourishment for our community. 😁
🎶 Background music: In the Garden – performed by Heidi Jacobs as the prelude for the August 15, 2024 Traditional Service.
🙏 Special thanks to our adult helpers: Mark Atwood, Brian McCall, Jane McKee, and Arlet Williams.
| | Various musical performances by Pender’s own musical personnel including the choir, guest musicians and KUMC organist, Kim Han. | | |
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!
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The Washington Korean Ensemble will perform at Pender June 21 at 4:00 pm with reception following.
Captivating choral performances in the Washington Metropolitan Area for over 30 years.
Established in 1993, the Washington Korean Ensemble (formerly 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.
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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!
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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
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On Sunday, March 2, 2025, the Pender United Methodist Church congregation joined together in singing the beloved hymn “Be Thou My Vision” as the closing hymn of worship. The hymn was led by Patrick King, Director of Music, and accompanied by Heidi Jacobs on piano.
Said to be a favorite of King Charles, Be Thou My Vision is one of the oldest hymns in the world, with its text originating in 6th-century Ireland, attributed to the early Christian poet Dallán Forgaill.
Today, this timeless text was sung to the Irish folk tune ‘Slane’—a deeply satisfying, ever-rising melody that gradually unfolds through each verse, gently resolving in peace on the final three notes.
Let this beautiful pairing of ancient poetry and traditional melody guide your heart toward vision, faith, and clarity.
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The Story Behind the Hymn
"Be Thou My Vision"
Versified by Eleanor Hull
The United Methodist Hymnal, No. 451
Be thou my vision, O Lord of my heart;
Naught be all else to me save that thou art.
Thou my best thought, by day and by night,
Waking or sleeping, thy presence my light.
Sometimes hymn singing invites us to connect with the saints who have gone before. Such is the case with the famous Irish hymn, "Be Thou my vision." The original poem, found in two Irish manuscripts in the library of the Royal Irish Academy, may be dated as early as the 8th century.
Quite often, older hymns come to us as a collaborative effort before we are able to sing them from our hymnals. The Irish text, beginning "Rob tu mo bhoile, a Comdi cride," was translated into literal prose by Irish scholar Mary Byrne (1880-1931), a Dublin native, and then published in Eriú, the journal of the School of Irish Learning, in 1905. Byrne was also known for her academic publications, including Old and Mid-Irish Dictionary, Dictionary of the Irish Language, and a treatise, England in the Age of Chaucer.
The original prose translation comes to us in 16 couplets.
The first is: Be thou my vision, O Lord of my heart. None other is aught but the King of the seven heavens.
And the last is: O heart of my heat, whate'er befall me, O ruler of all, be thou my vision.
It is at this point that Eleanor Hull (1860-1935) enters the story. Born in Manchester, England, she was the founder of the Irish Text Society and president of the Irish Literary Society of London. Hull versified the text and it was published in her Poem Book of the Gael (1912).
Following the original publication in Ireland, the hymn was included in a number of British hymnals. After World War II, the hymn came to the attention of hymnal editors in the U.S. and it has become a standard hymn in most hymnals today.
Irish liturgy and ritual scholar Helen Phelan, a lecturer at the University of Limerick, points out how the language of this hymn is drawn from traditional Irish culture: "One of the essential characteristics of the text is the use of 'heroic' imagery to describe God. This was very typical of medieval Irish poetry, which cast God as the 'chieftain' or 'High King' (Ard Ri) who provided protection to his people or clan. The lorica is one of the most popular forms of this kind of protection prayer and is very prevalent in texts of this period." The original chieftain language of the "High King of heaven" has given way to the more inclusive "Great God" in the UM Hymnal.
When Hull's versification was paired with the lovely traditional Irish tune SLANE in The Irish Church Hymnal in 1919, its popularity was sealed. The folk melody was taken from a non-liturgical source, Patrick Weston Joyce's Old Irish Folk Music and Songs: A Collection of 842 Airs and Songs hitherto unpublished (1909).
"Most 'traditional' Irish religious songs are non-liturgical," says Dr. Phelan. "There is a longstanding practice of 'editorial weddings' in Irish liturgical music, where traditional tunes were wedded to more liturgically appropriate texts. This is a very good example of this practice."
It was on Slane Hill in County Meath around 433 CE that St. Patrick lit candles on Easter Eve, defying a decree by High King Logaire of Tara that no one could light a fire before the king signaled the beginning of the pagan spring festival by lighting a fire on Tara Hill. King Logaire was so impressed by Patrick's devotion that, despite his defiance, he was permitted to continue his work as Ireland's first Christian missionary.
Dr. Hawn is director of the sacred music program at Perkins School of Theology.
Read more at https://penderumc.org/pender-blog/hymn-history-be-thou-my-vision/
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Join Us for the final Bread of Life (until Fall)!
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!
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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.
| | Please bring a dish to share for our Graduation Lunch potluck. | | |
Wheel of Fortune
The Lamb Center parking lot is not a CUE bus stop. However, it became one earlier this month for an act of kindness. On May 5th, the CUE bus, a free Fairfax City bus our guests often ride to get to TLC, rolled into the TLC parking lot. The bus driver had noticed the broken wheel on a push cart belonging to Ms. Walter*, a cherished passenger and regular TLC guest, and took it upon himself to purchase and deliver a new cart. His thoughtful gesture didn't go unnoticed, but, oddly, Ms. Walter wasn’t at The Lamb Center that day.
Soon after, Fairfax County's PATH (Projects for Assistance in Transition from Homelessness) team, who provide services to individuals with serious behavioral health disorders who are experiencing or at risk of homelessness, came to TLC as they often do. They realized Ms. Walter was missing from her usual spot and were concerned. So they took a drive through the community looking for her, and found her stranded due to her broken cart. With hearts full of compassion, they returned to TLC, retrieved the new cart delivered by the CUE bus driver, and brought it to her. Thanks to the kindness of the CUE bus driver and PATH team, Ms. Walter is back in action.
God reveals Himself in so many beautiful ways, always moving with us - never stranding his lost sheep.
*Name has been changed
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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).
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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!
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Children's Sunday School meets Sunday in person from 10:15 - 11am.
Welcome to Sunday School!
Any questions? Please speak with Miss Jane or Miss Maya!
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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!
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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:
- Place needed items into the cart at Pender for weekly delivery to WFCM
- Provide a monetary donation through Pender by designating WFCM on your check or on-line giving.
- Order from Amazon for direct delivery to WFCM at 4511 Daly Drive, Suite H, Chantilly, VA 20151 (Amazon is best for heavy items.)
- 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
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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.
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