The first Sunday after Pentecost is also called Trinity Sunday. One explanation reports that this is the Sunday where you explain the Trinity. Good luck with that. The Trinity is one of those concepts that defies explanation. Oh, we can get close; we can provide hints or glimpses of the reality of the totality of the God we worship. But can we ever say to have explained the complexity that is the interrelationship of the Godhead? Probably not.

What we’re left with then, is describing God the way God consistently self-describes: In relationship with us. Notice that the Trinity Sunday Gospel text was chosen because of the Trinitarian formula that Jesus invokes: “[B]aptizing them in the name of the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit” (v.19). But the bulk of the passage isn’t about God; it’s about us. It’s about what we will do in the name of God. It’s about what we’ll do because we belong to Jesus. When we focus on God, we always understand ourselves better. That’s how this works.

So, how do we worship on Trinity Sunday? We attend to the glory of God first and foremost. We sing the songs of God’s glory: “Holy, Holy, Holy! Lord God Almighty” or even “¡Santo! ¡Santo! ¡Santo!” if you’re feeling adventurous. The first verse of this hymn ends with “God in three persons, blessed Trinity!” (bendita Trinidad). Use the Trinity Sunday prayer in The United Methodist Hymnal (76). Check the recommendations in the hymnal or in this worship package for more ideas. But find ways to celebrate the God we worship with as much glory as we can muster.

After the splash of red for Pentecost, the shining white of Easter comes back again along with the gold that speaks of the preciousness and the purity of our God. Let our sanctuaries be treasure houses of beauty because the God we worship is an artist and an inspiration of awe and wonder. Let there be a breathtaking glory about the space we create that points to the source of all that is good —not in lavishness or excess, but in the beautiful simplicity of purity. A simple white cloth on the table, perhaps, or the gold unadorned cross can be the visual centerpiece for worship.

Look for symbols that represent the Trinity — the triangles and circles and Celtic knots that speak of the diversity and the unity of God that point to our varied experience throughout scripture and the history of the people of God. This is not to be a prelude to what we really want to talk about. We don’t give God glory as an introduction to our real subject, ourselves, and our mission. No, the worship of God is an end in and of itself. The attention to the glory and the wonder and the fullness of our Trinitarian God is enough for any worship event in the life of the church.

Yet, like the crowd at the Pentecost sermon we remembered last week, we can’t help but ask, “Brothers and sisters, what shall we do? What do we do because of the wonder of this God? How shall we live? Who shall we be? Where shall we go? Whom shall we include? Whom shall we see because our God is Trinity?” This worship must spill out into the world around us; it must transform our living every day, not just on this day, not just in this place. How do we point beyond us as we pronounce the benediction? How do we send the people out with a desire to share the variety of our God experience with the world that hungers to know what we know? How do we embody the love of God the creator, the hope of the redeemer Christ, and the sustaining faith of the ever-present Spirit in ways that are life giving in our own communities?

This series is about taking the inward focus of Trinity Sunday and turning it outward to the world in which we live. It is about remembering that we aren’t just looking after our own souls, but are in the business of transforming the world. While it is always true, we could say it is especially true in this post-Pentecost season that our worship cannot end in the sanctuary. It must spill out into the community around us. Rethink the benediction as no longer an ending but a transition from worship inside to worship outside, from worship in word and song and ritualized movement to worship embodied in our hands and hearts and demeanor as we live in a distracted and distracting world.

From UMC Discipleship Ministries

Dear Church Family:

This Sunday is Trinity Sunday, the beginning of the long “ordinary” season of the church year that will take us through to start of a new church year at Advent. Trinity Sunday represents both the fulfillment of our annual telling of the story of salvation that we celebrate through the church seasons each year, beginning with the incarnation and spread of the gospel through Advent, Christmas, and Epiphany, then followed by the journey following Jesus’ passion and our redemption through his cross and resurrection at Lent and Easter, and climaxing with the outpouring of the Holy Spirit and the birth of the Church at Pentecost.  

Trinity Sunday signals both the fulfillment of this story that shapes our life in Christ, and ushers in the start of the season sometimes called Kingdomtide that helps us to live into and live out our new reality as disciples of King Jesus in view of all that the triune God has done in and for the world, and for us.  

Trinity Sunday is also the one Sunday of the year when we focus our attention on a doctrine (authoritative teaching) of the universal church, namely the church’s profession about the being and character of God who is made known through these many divine actions we celebrate throughout the year. The faith we share with all Christians will be expressed in joyful song in many churches as we sing of the mystery of God who is self-revealed, in the words of a familiar hymn, as “[One] God in Three Persons, Blessed Trinity.”  Or, as Charles Wesley put it, the God revealed in Jesus is “the triune God of love.”

Joining our voices with the whole church in praise of the holy Trinity, the disciples of Pender UMC are invited to gather between services at 10:15 in the Gathering Place to consider the changes coming upon the United Methodist Church and our place and life as a congregation within it. While we rejoice with all Christians in our identity as children of the triune God by grace, we have work to do in discerning our present identity within the UMC and how we will live together with truth and grace in this new season of our denominational life. This requires us both to understand the changes and to talk together about how we will then live as a congregation of Jesus’ disciples. You will have an opportunity not only to receive a report, but also to ask your questions and to give your input.  

I want to encourage all members and friends of Pender to join us this Sunday or next (same time and place) for this important family discussion at Pender. If you are unable to attend in person, we will email a link to the recording to those who are on our email/newsletter list. While this won’t be the final word in our discernment, it is still an important step in the process. Your voice is important.

Lastly, as we have encouraged each of us to bathe this season in prayer, let us pray for the Holy Spirit of God to guide our listening and our deliberations.  The triune God is faithful in every season, and I am confident that the Lord will lead us now as we seek his face and holy way for our Pender family of Jesus’ followers.

Pastor Bruce

• May 26, Trinity Sunday
• May 26, Post-General Conference discussion, 10:15 am
• May 27. The Church Office will be closed for Memorial Day
• June 20-22, Virginia Annual Conference
• June 21, Virginia Annual Conference Game Night. Register here.
• June 22, UWF Breakfast Meeting. All women are welcome.
• June 24-28, VBS. Registration open now at www.penderumc.org/vbs.
• July 19-26, Philippi Youth Missions Trip
• September 8, Back to School picnic
• October 19, Fall Festival/Trunk or Treat
• December 7, Breakfast with Santa

Weekly Events

• Sunday
• Children's Sunday School Class at 10:15 am.
• Youth Sunday School Class meets at 10:15 am.
• Connections Adult Class meets at 10:15 am
• The Seeker Sunday School Class meets at 10:15 am.
• Pray for Pender, 10:15 am
• The Turning Point Youth Group at 4:00 pm
• Monday
• Fun with Music on break until the fall
• Mary Martha Circle, online
• Tuesday
• Handbell rehearsal
• Pastor Bruce Bible Study at 7pm
• Wednesday
• Ruth Circle on break until the fall
• AA Meetings at 6pm
• Thursday
• Pastor Bruce Bible Study at
• Lectio Divina Prayer Group Learn more here
• Choir Rehearsal on break until June 6
• Praise Band Rehearsal at 7:30

• Check here for other meetings.

The Virginia Annual Conference of the United Methodist Church (VAUMC) hosted a post-General Conference webinar on Thursday, May 9, 2024 at 7 PM. 

The panel included:

• Bishop Sue Haupert-Johnson
• Rev. Lindsey Baynham Freeman, head of the Virginia delegation
• Delegates Rev. Mark Ogren, Marshall Bailey, and Rev. Dr. Jonathan Page

Learn more on the General Conference Page at https://penderumc.org/conference/

Recording of the Post-General Conference webinar below:

What You Need to Know About VBS

Registration closes June 13, 2024.

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.

For ages potty-trained 3s through sixth graders.

More information and registration.

Matthew 5:14-16 King James Version (KJV) says:

"Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.”

Hey Pender Family It’s always a joy to see your smiling faces, but we know there’s a whole world of amazing achievements and cool activities happening in your lives outside of Pender too. Why keep all that awesomeness to yourselves when we could be celebrating together right here in our newsletter

Kids’ Corner: Did your little one just make the honor roll, strike up a tune in the school orchestra, master the art of coloring inside the lines, score a touchdown, try a triple axel, or toss their graduation cap in the air? We want to hear all about it!

Adult Achievements: What’s new and exciting in your life? Picked up a paintbrush or a guitar recently? Maybe you’ve just designed the next architectural marvel in London, tied on tap shoes, shared a meal with a homeless person, or knitted your first scarf—no feat is too big or small for our Pender community spotlight.

Share Your Stories: Drop us a note, send in a photo, or even a short blurb about what’s new and exciting in your world. Let’s fill our newsletter with your successes and new ventures. After all, every achievement deserves a shoutout!

Can’t wait to feature your stories and celebrate all the incredible things you’re doing. Let’s make our next newsletter issue the most inspiring one yet.

Rachel (Kotiah) and Austin Matos are excited to announce that Austin Hilario Matos, Jr. flew into the world on 05/19/24 at 11:01pm!

AJ is 9lbs, 2oz and 22.5" and they are thrilled to have him complete their family.

Rachel is the daughter of Gita Marin Joyce and the niece of Maya Berry.

Rachel will be taking a break from the Joy Ringers for a little while.

Saturday, May 18, 2024 was the beginning of Pender's Annual Faith Promise Missions Conference.

This is a slideshow of images from the kick-off dinner.

The soundtrack is "We've a Story to Tell to the Nations", which was the flag processional hymn on Sunday, May 19, 2024.

Discover the Joy of Board Games and Dungeons & Dragons at Our Virginia Churches!

We are thrilled to share how our Virginia churches are redefining ministry through the joyous use of board games, including the ever-popular Dungeons & Dragons. It’s not just about fun; it’s about fellowship, learning, and coming together in a spirit of camaraderie and shared adventure.

Annual Game Night Returns!

Mark your calendars for the Virginia Annual Conference Game Night on Friday, June 21st. This evening promises to be a memorable one filled with laughter, strategy, and community building. Whether you're a board game aficionado or a curious newcomer, there’s a spot at the table just for you.

Dungeons & Dragons Adventure Awaits

This year, we’re excited to offer a special session of Dungeons & Dragons. Join us for a One Shot campaign that's perfect for both veterans of the game and those looking to roll their first die. This is a fantastic opportunity to dive into a world of imagination, challenge, and teamwork.

Registration Open Now

Spaces for Dungeons & Dragons are limited, so we encourage you to register soon to secure your spot. It’s first come, first served, so don’t miss out!

Register here: [D&D Registration](https://forms.gle/sDNxvjEV78axXWG79) Come and discover how a simple game night can transform relationships and build a stronger, more connected community. We look forward to seeing you there and sharing a table for a night of fun and fellowship!

For questions: Contact Hunter Bryn ( hunterbryn@vaumc.org) or Ahnnalise Stevens-Jennings ( ahnnalise@braddockstreetumc.org)

June 15 and 16, Mary O'Connor, Pender Director of Communications, will play balalaika at Capitol One Hall and Bradley Hills Presbyterian Church. There will also be two free outdoor concerts this summer. One at Mason District Park in Annandale and one in Harris Pavilion in Manassas. September 22 there will be a Concert in Support of Ukraine in Culpepper.

Brian Stevenson, Director of Handbells and Ensembles here at Pender, plays a multitude of instruments including bassoon, clarinet, flute, guitar, harp, piano, organ, handbells, recorder and mandolin as well as arranging and directing, harp therapist and luthier.

Brian has completed his studies in piano tuning and repair with a certification from APTN and has just set up a page on NextDoor. If he's tuned your piano, please give him a good review. If you need your piano tuned, give him a call.

Don't Forget to Share Your Stories!

HopeFest 2024 Recap!

We just wrapped up an incredible day at HopeFest 2024, a recovery and family-friendly festival packed with food, fun, and fellowship! From yoga in the morning to a petting zoo that had everyone smiling, HopeFest was a hit. Dive into our festival recap to relive the joyous moments or see what you missed!

All for a Cause: Every moment of fun helped raise funds to support recovery, connection, and peer support. Thanks to your participation, we're spreading the profound hope of recovery far and wide.

On May 10, several Pender People went Oakton High School to support Ash Dougherty as she worked diligently back stage to produce the stage play "Pippin".

Long time handbell ringer, Caroline Klein, moved to Massachusetts recently. She rang for the last time at Pender during Traditional Worship Sunday morning with the Joy Ringers.

May 3, 2024, opening night, a group of 22 Pender People, including Pastor Bruce, and Pastor Kenny, Mary Dale and Laura, went to Herndon High School to support Sean Wittmer in the title role of "Fiddler on the Roof". Pender People were present at other shows, as well. One family loved the show so much that they saw it twice!

Meeting Saturdays

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.  

Grief Counseling

Grief is a non-linear journey, and you don't have to go it alone. Pender UMC specializes in grief counseling and support, to help you through life's most difficult moments. Supporting clients in and around Fair Oaks.

Premarital Counseling for Couples

Prepare for a lifetime together by having the important conversations ahead of time, and in a supportive environment. Pender UMC provides premarital counseling for couples in our Fair Oaks office. Get the support, encouragement, and the tools to build a lasting marriage with our help.

We're thrilled to invite you to embark on a transformative journey with the Read a Chapter a Day challenge! Reading the Bible is one of the essential spiritual practices of disciples.

Join the Summer challenge to read a chapter of Acts a day, starting the day after Memorial Day (May 27) and concluding on Independence Day (July 4).

This challenge is an opportunity for us to grow together in faith, wisdom, and community.

Register here to participate.

From May 28 through July 4, you'll receive an email each day (Monday through Friday) with a new chapter from the Book of Acts.

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

The following donations are currently needed: individual packages beef jerky, 16 oz bottled water and energy drinks. They don't currently need chips.

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!

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

Western Fairfax Christian Ministries (WFCM)

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 April more than 700 families were provided groceries from the Food Pantries, a 48% increase over April 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 he church.

Most needed items in the food pantry this month:

Food & Beverages​​​

• Hot Cereal (Oatmeal, Grits)
• Sugar (1 or 2 lb. bags)
• Red Beans (low salt preferred)
• Black Beans (low salt preferred)
• Canned Tomatoes (stewed, crushed, diced, paste)
• Canned Pasta 
• Pasta Sauce
• Flavored Pasta (Pasta Helpers)
• Flavored Rice (Rice A Roni)
• Risotto
• Pancake Mix 
• Family Sized Snacks (pretzels, crackers, etc.)
• Canned Mixed Vegetables (low salt preferred)
• Coffee (ground, no k-cups)

​

Toiletries

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

• Body Wash
• Body Lotion
• Toothpaste 
• Hair Shampoo
• Hair Conditioner 
• Lotion 
• Toilet Paper
• Large size pull-ups (size 4T/5T for toddlers) 
• Size 6 Diapers 
• Baby Wipes 

​

NOTE:  Only size 6 diapers and large pull-ups are needed at this time thanks to our partnership with Greater DC Diaper Bank.

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.