The Common Ground Contemporary Service May 12 at 11:15 am will be in person and live-streamed.

Dear Church Family:

As many of us will know, the 2024 General Conference of the United Methodist Church concluded this past week after making significant changes to our denominational positions, connection, and direction, while approving a plan to regionalize the church (this must be ratified by representatives from the entire denomination over the next year to take effect).

The leadership of Pender UMC remains committed to helping our members and congregants be informed about the changes that will impact our church in one way or another. The Church Council will soon announce meetings to present a summary of the changes and to talk together about the implications for our life at Pender.  In the meantime, there are many summaries of the conference developments that you may access online.  

As a way of focusing our conversations and being clear about where we are at, you are encouraged to view a webinar online this evening at 7:00pm hosted by Virginia Conference Bishop Sue Haupert-Johnson and leaders of the Virginia Conference delegation to General Conference. You may sign up to view the webinar here: https://zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_qKQXMFS3RLKbXxanbknBPg#/registration

If you prefer, you may also view the webinar with other church members and congregants in the Gathering Place tonight at 7:00. A recording of the webinar will also be available for viewing soon afterward on the Virginia Conference website: www.vaumc.org.  

The United Methodist Church is a “connectional” church. What happens at the denominational level has ramifications for every congregation. At the same time, we will have decisions to make about our identity and direction as a local congregation. Understanding the changes that have been made and may be made at the conference is essential for us as we discern a faithful path forward here at Pender. As we take this next step in our discernment, we need your participation and input. This is challenging work, but it is work we must do together for the sake of the church we love and for the kingdom of our Lord.  

As your pastor, I am committed to walk with you in this journey, and to respect the integrity and well-being of each of us who are a part of the body of Christ at Pender, whatever our differences. I hope you will continue to pray with me for our beloved church in this transitional season and pray above all else that God’s will may be done among us and lead us into a faithful and fruitful future as witnesses to the risen Lord Jesus Christ.

Pastor Bruce

Pender Spring Concert Series

The 2024 concert directed by Patrick King will take place Saturday at 7:00 pm in the Sanctuary with a reception to follow in the Gathering Place.

• May 9, Post-General Conference Zoom webinar in the Gathering Place
• May 11, Chris Atwood Foundation HopeFest 2024
• May 11, Concert presented by the Music Department
• May 18-19, Faith Promise Missions Celebration
• May 18 at 5:30, Potluck dinner
• May 19, ONE Service at 10 am
• May 19, Pentecost Sunday
• June 20-22, Virginia Annual Conference
• 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
• Mary Martha Circle, online
• Tuesday
• Recorder Consort or Flute Choir rehearsal
• Handbell rehearsals
• Pastor Bruce Bible Study at 7pm
• Wednesday
• Ruth Circle meets in person the second Wednesday of each month
• AA Meetings at 6pm
• Thursday
• Pastor Bruce Bible Study at
• Lectio Divina Prayer Group Learn more here
• Choir Rehearsal at 6:30
• Praise Band Rehearsal at 7:30

• Check here for other meetings.

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

The panel will include:

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

Pender will host a viewing of the post-General Conference webinar put on by the bishop and annual conference delegation leaders.

Since Pastor Bruce and others will be unable to attend due to choir rehearsal, we will postpone a follow-up discussion until a later date to be announced.

If you cannot attend at Pender, here's the Link to Zoom Panel Discussion

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

General Conference wrap-up below:

Jessie Busby writes:

A Thank You

It is with deep gratitude that the family of Richard E. Busby acknowledges the overwhelming outpouring of love and support shown to us by our Pender family during this time of berevement.

From the many cards, flowers, calls, meals, honorariums, behind-the-scenes services and work for the lovely reception we are all so very appreciative.

The memorial service itself was so very moving and reassuring. We thank each and every one of you. We are indeed blessed to be part of Christ's family at Pender.

The Pender Faith Promise Missions Celebration will begin Saturday May 18 with a Potluck Dinner.

Sunday May 19 at 9AM and 11:15AM Services David and Laura Shuping, long-term Pender members will share about their ministries.

The Annual Missions Conference is an opportunity to meet visiting missionaries, hear their stories about what God is doing in the lives of people, and how lives are being changed throughout the world because of Pender's Faith Promise Missions outreach.

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.

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

You can be there, too - tickets here.

June 15 and, Mary O'Connor, Pender Director of Communications, will play balalaika at Capitol One Hall and Bradley Hills Presbyterian Church. There will 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!

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

On May 5, 2024, Pender's Joy Ringers, directed by Brian Stevenson, performed "Fanfare and Intrada" by Jason W. Krug. This dynamic 3-5 octave handbell composition opened with a grand fanfare, where the bells resounded in triumphant bursts, escalating in intensity. The composition includes a contemplative middle section, providing a soothing interlude before revisiting the vigorous rhythm of the opening. This exhilarating piece is truly a musical highlight not to be missed!

Check out the performance on our channel and experience the powerful blend of energy and melody.

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!

Unleashing Potential with BlackGirlScientist, LLC!

Dive into our latest slideshow featuring the exhilarating Lava Lip Gloss Lab, a FREE STEM Workshop held at Pender UMC, specially designed for 30 middle school-aged girls. This dynamic session was crafted to ignite a passion for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, offering these young minds a hands-on experience that transcends the typical classroom setting.

Why STEM? STEM encompasses the core disciplines of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. It's more than just an educational framework; it's a gateway to innovation and a critical component of future career paths. Our workshop not only introduced these bright young girls to fundamental concepts but also demonstrated how they can blend creativity with science to create something fun and beautiful like their very own lip gloss!

In this video, watch as curiosity transforms into tangible skills, see the joy of learning in action, and maybe even learn a thing or two about the science behind cosmetics. Don't miss out on the highlights from this empowering event where young girls learn, create, and inspire.



Join us on this journey of discovery and empowerment! Let's inspire the next generation of scientists and engineers together!

Celebrate with us as we honored the United Women in Faith Women of the Year at our special Women of the Year Tea, held on April 21, 2024!

This prestigious event showcased the incredible achievements of Vicki Fitzgerald and Teresa Rothschild, highlighting their remarkable contributions to our community.

Under the leadership of Maya Berry, President of the United Women in Faith Pender UMC Chapter, the event was filled with warmth, inspiration, and a strong sense of fellowship. Join us in this video as we capture the highlights of the tea, from heartfelt speeches to joyful celebrations with members and guests.

Relive the special moments, the elegant decorations, and the community spirit that define the Women of the Year Tea. Whether you're a long-standing member or just curious about the impactful work of the United Women in Faith, this video is your gateway to experiencing the joy and dedication of our honored women.



The background audio was a flute solo by Brian Stevenson on October 3, 2022.

A J Rios is the drummer at Pender's Common Ground Contemporary service each Sunday at 11:15.

Check out his talent any Sunday in person or online. He recently shared his love for music and teaching music with Fox 5 News DC.

AJ and Hawkins from Middle C Music School guided the Fox 5 News hosts through creating a one-of-a-kind band using items anyone could find around the house. From paint cans to water xylophones, watch as everyday objects transform into musical instruments, all tuned to play perfect melodies and rhythms.

Meeting Saturday 5/11/2024

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

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

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

Bring your Bible with you and invite a friend.  

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.

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

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

Join us for a recovery and family friendly festival with food, fun, and fellowship. All proceeds will help others access the profound hope of recovery, connection, and peer support.

ACTIVITIES:

10:30am:

• Morning yoga with Executive Director, Shelly Young! Bring your yoga mat if you have one.

11am - 1:30pm

• Smokin' Willy's on-site grilling
• Kids games
• Music
• Petting zoo
• Lawn games
• Raffle prizes
• Dessert

Pay what you can, but reserve your ticket in advance so we know how much food to have. We cannot wait to see you there!

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.