Sunday Worship:
In Person and
Streaming
at 9:00 and 11:15 am
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This Week at Pender
March 31, 2022
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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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On Sunday, April 3, 2022 Rev. Will White will preach on “Filled with the Fragrance" from the series “Gathered up in Jesus” based on John 12:1-8.
April 3, 2022 is the Fifth Sunday in Lent. There will be Holy Communion. If you are watching online, please have your Communion supplies close by.
We are nearing the end of this season; next week is Palm/Passion Sunday. So, here we can focus on giving honor to the Christ who has journeyed with us throughout this difficult season. Like Mary, we can pour out in blessing praise and worship as we gather. We can offer something precious as we approach the one who loves us more than his own life.
Gathered Up in Jesus
The season of Lent is essential for those who truly seek to be disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world. Because a part of what we learn in this time of self-examination is that we are what might be most in need of transformation. We might find that what might need to grow in faith and discipleship is the church and that the transformation of the world begins with building bridges and gathering up rather than with condemnation. We hope you’ll join in with churches around the world as we seek to be gathered up in Jesus.
All of Pender's services are streamed live and in person. Masks are currently optional.
Join us live at Pender UMC
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The Traditional Services are in person and live streamed at 9:00 am on Sunday. |
The Common Ground Contemporary Services are in person and live streamed at 11:15 am on Sunday. |
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On Sunday, March 27, 2022 Rev. Will White preached on “Lost & Found” from the series “Gathered up in Jesus” based on Luke 15:1-3, 11b-32.
March 27, 2022 is the Fourth Sunday in Lent.
Luke 15:1-3, 11b-32 is a familiar story to many, yet it bears retelling. The message of grace and acceptance no matter how far one falls is one we need to hear again and again. But perhaps we might consider reflecting on the older brother as we worship this week.
His story might come closer to ours than that of the younger prodigal son – particularly if we are trying to emphasize radical hospitality.
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The Traditional Services are in person and live streamed at 9:00 am on Sunday. |
The Common Ground Contemporary Services are in person and live streamed at 11:15 am on Sunday. |
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DURING THE FORTY DAYS OF LENT Christians have a special opportunity to engage in “acts of piety” and “deeds of mercy”. These acts do not help us earn God’s favor, but do cause us to focus on our faith in Christ. Thereby, we grow spiritually. Consider making a gift to our Easter Offering this year which will support UMCOR Disaster Relief in Ukraine and for the FACETS thermal shelter held at Pender March 27-April 1.
Matthew 5:16-17 “In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father in heaven.”
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Lent and Easter
at Pender United Methodist Church
9am and 11:15am Palm Sunday
Join us in our sanctuary for our 9am Traditional or 11:15am “Common Ground” worship services.
Palm Sunday, April 10, 10:30am, Processional
Meet us in the parking lot for a time of palm waving, hosanna shouting, singing, and walking together. Kids love a parade. Bring them! We will have a donkey. Kids and parents can join us for a photo opportunity at 10am. Our Traditional and Common Ground teams will provide music. Come on time because this will be a short event and we want to be able to enjoy a hot cross bun in The Gathering Place afterward. We have a rain plan too for a processional within the church building.
Holy Thursday, April 14, A Service of Shadows, 7:30pm
Jesus met with his disciples in the “Upper Room” to reveal the mysteries of the Lord’s Supper. In the Garden of Gethsemane, he asked for them to stay awake as he agonized over the direction to which he had been called. He spoke the truth before the religious elite and Roman rulers alike. Join us for Holy Communion, great music, and singing in a service that ends with a twist, and hope. This will be a joint service featuring our Common Ground and Traditional worship teams.
Good Friday, April 15, Meditating on the Cross, 6-10am, 5pm-8pm
A prayer walk is an opportunity to quiet our hearts and listen for God’s guidance. We’re providing a wonderful opportunity for this in our church’s sanctuary on Good Friday. In the stillness of either morning or evening, participate in a self-guided worship experience in which you’ll recall the passion of Jesus. Come anytime during the hours listed, participate at your own pace, and leave when you are ready. Good Friday is a somber time, but it is through the cross that we become one with God through the immeasurable grace of Jesus.
Holy Saturday, April 16, 3-5pm, Easter Experience
This is a family-friendly event with the little ones in mind. Adults and children are invited to walk to Jerusalem along with Jesus. There will be crafts and fun activities that will help the kids understand Easter. Join us in The Gathering Place rain or shine!
Easter Sunday, April 17
Sunrise, 6:45am, Youth Drama, “The Tomb Revisited”
Come as our youth lead a fun drama in which they share their belief in the resurrection amidst their doubts.
Sunrise Breakfast
Following Easter sunrise service there will be breakfast in The Gathering Place. All are invited to fellowship together as we experience the joy of the risen Christ.
9am and 11:15am “Resurrection Celebration”
Join us in our sanctuary for our 9am Traditional or 11:15am “Common Ground” worship services.
10am Easter Brunch
Come “between the services” for an Easter brunch. This will be provided by volunteers in The Gathering Place. We can’t wait to see you there!
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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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UMCOR Advance #14053A
UMC Pastors Ukraine and Moldova
Our Easter Offering this year will support Ukrainian refugee relief and the Hypothermia Shelter at Pender.
We’re thankful for your gifts.
There is another immediate need if you feel the calling to make a donation. It will be impossible for some UMC pastors in Ukraine and Moldova to hold worship due to the invasion of Ukraine.
They will need financial assistance in order to remain in ministry. If you want to help, you can make a check out to Pender UMC and write Advance #14053A on the memo portion.
You can also visit our website and make an offering to UMCOR that way.
Thanks for your gifts!
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Sign up to help with Easter Brunch. Please join Keith as he prepares this year's "between the services" Easter brunch.
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Help Wanted! Common Ground
Have you always wanted to play or sing in a worship band? Common Ground is looking for a few good men and women. Contact Uriah Moore @ 1-443-787-8989. Email Uriah at: uriahjmoore@hotmail.com He’ll talk with you about an audition.
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Help Wanted!
We’re also looking for some administrative leadership. Would you be willing to go to training to learn how to expand and promote Common Ground?
Are you someone who likes to greet people? Would you be willing to usher?
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Masks Optional
In that transmission rates of COVID-19 are currently at acceptable levels, as of Monday, March 7, mask wearing will be optional for all events held at Pender UMC, unless otherwise specified.
If you feel more comfortable wearing a mask, then you can do so.
Please note that the preschool mask mandate is still in place at this time. Our policies are always subject to change. Exceptions may be required for specific events.
If, God forbid, transmission rates were to again rise, we will at that time, reinstitute mask wearing.
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The Chris Atwood Foundation's annual “any movement” challenge – Hope in Motion – is back this year in an optional in-person or virtual format!
The CAF supports all paths to recovery from substance use disorder, and one of the foundational philosophies of harm reduction is to celebrate “any positive change" that improves health and wellbeing. In that spirit, we're inviting you to join us in supporting The CAF's mission through any movement you choose!
Please join us on Saturday, April 23rd for Hope in Motion virtually, or at our in-person celebration taking place at Pender United Methodist Church: 12401 Alder Woods Dr, Fairfax, VA.
Walk, run, hike, bike, swim, practice yoga, dance, jump rope – however you choose to move your body to support recovery and honor our loved ones we have lost to substance use disorder.
We encourage you to create fundraising teams, post pictures, and get the kids, your friends, and neighbors involved to help us raise much needed funds that will allow The CAF to continue its critical mission of saving lives and supporting recovery.
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Spring concert April 23 at 7:00 pm featuring Liz Sellers on piano, Brian Stevenson on harp, and local professional musicians. |
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The Pender Nursery is available on Sundays during services and Sunday School classes.
Please let us know the ages of your children so we can best prepare for them at pender.church/signup.
Note that all children must wear masks and have their temperature taken.
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The hypothermia program is administered in partnership between Fairfax County, FACETS and the Faith Communities of the area. Pender has participated in the program as a host church for many years.
We anticipate between 25 and 30 persons during our week which is March 27 through April 1st, and breakfast on the 2nd.
View the Hypothermia slideshow below
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Children's Sunday School resumed in person and on Zoom
Welcome to Sunday School!
The children's Sunday School is meeting face-to-face (at the church).
Please note, teachers and children need to wear a mask during class. All children will get their own bag of materials to avoid sharing.
We hope to see you soon!
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Pender Vacation Bible School (VBS) is a week-long program where children explore, celebrate, and care for God's good creation!
Through worship and drama, Bible study, nature-themed art projects and snacks, active games, songs, arts and crafts, skits, puppet shows and science explorations, elementary school-aged children will discover God's love for all of creation.
They will be challenged to care for God's world in tangible ways - both during VBS and at home.
VBS will be from 9-12, June 20-24, 2022.
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Sunday School
Topic: Youth Sunday School
Time: Sundays @ 10:oo am-11am
At Pender
Sunday Night Youth Starting April 3 the new time will be 4:00-5:30 pm
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Confirmation Class for all 8th grade and older students who wish to be confirmed in the United Methodist Church. Students will study the beliefs of the UMC as well as what it means to be a Christian. Upon completion of the course and weekend students will stand before the congregation and proclaim their faith and commitment to Pender UMC. Class to be held in the youth group room. POC: Minister Howard Fickling-Finley. They begin March 27 at 12:30 pm. |
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PENDER SUPPORTED MISSIONARIES UPDATE – Continued ministry for Ukrainian refugees
Over 2 million refugees are in Poland. Train stations in main cities are still full of people. Hundreds of volunteers are still helping as many as they can but are getting tired. They have left their usual jobs and are making the Ukrainians a new priority. They are finding schools for children, helping with medical care, transportation, praying with the people, giving them hope. In the Ostroda Camp, some moved to Germany, but more people came so they now have 183 people.
They need to find a place to move the people so that they can prepare the camp for this summer’s activities. Many Ukrainians are going to worship services. This past Sunday, they gave a special gift of 300 New Testaments & Psalms in Ukrainian language to those who came to worship. They are in the process of organizing an extra worship service for Ukrainians in their language.
Please pray for Zbigniew and his church. Ask God to send new workers because there are a lot of spiritual and material needs and the harvest is ready.
GOD IS GOOD
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Missions Conference April 30-May 1
Come and attend the Pender Faith Promise Missions Celebration on Sat. April 30 at 8:30AM-12:30PM and on Sun. May 1 at 9AM, Sunday School and 11:15AM Services.
Missionaries will share about their ministries in our Fairfax community, in the US, and internationally.
Our keynote speaker is Christine Hanak, an ordained UMC minister, and her husband, Charlie. They serve globally with Ambassadors for Christ International (AFCI). As you know, Chris is an ordained minister with the UMC, and we are thrilled to have her back at her home congregation where her missionary life began.
Austin and Sinte House will update us about their ministry in Thailand. Members from Campus Crusade (Cru) on the George Mason University campus will come share their testimonies.
More missionaries are still confirming their attendance -- stay tuned for updates! Enjoy inspirational music and songs!
Come and be refreshed in the Lord! Share some hospitality with our missionary visitors. Breakfast, lunch and refreshments with an international flair will be served in the Gathering Place.
We look forward to seeing you!
For more information, please contact Greg or Maya Berry, or the church office.
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Western Fairfax Christian Ministries |
The WFCM blue cart is outside the church.
All donations of food and toiletries are welcomed and needed.
Item of the Week: Canned Pasta
Please no:
* Expired food
* Glass jars
Thank you for your continuing generous support of WFCM.
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Western Fairfax Christian Ministries ("WFCM") Current Request for Donations
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.
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Registration is now open for the 4th Annual WFCM Spring into Action Golf Tournament – Join us on Monday, May 23, 2022 at Chantilly National Golf & Country Club
“Everyone can see that my swing is homegrown; that means everybody has a chance to do it.” Bubba Watson
Take your chance at WFCM’s Fourth Annual Spring into Action Golf Tournament on Monday, May 23, 2022, at Chantilly National Golf & Country Club. Registration is now open at wfcmva.org/golf. We tee off at 8:30 a.m. and the day includes continental breakfast, barbecue lunch to go or enjoy on the patio, contests, free beverages and snacks on the course, and 18 holes of fun with your team. As Bubba Watson suggests, let's all just get out on the course and enjoy the day!
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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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April 3, Coffee with the Pastor
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April 3, Confirmation Classes continue
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April 4, Church Council
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April 10, Palm Sunday
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April 14, Holy Thursday
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April 15, Good Friday
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April 16, An Easter Experience
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April 17, Easter Sunday
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April 17, Easter Sunrise Drama
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April 17, Easter Breakfast after the Drama
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April 17, Easter Brunch at 10 am. Sign up to help
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April 22-23, Confirmation Class Retreat Weekend
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April 23, Hope in Motion (The Chris Atwood Foundation) Join the Pender Pavement Pounders.
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April 23, Pender Spring Concert
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April 24, Juvenile Detention Center (JDC). Learn More
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April 30-May 1, Missions Conference
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May 1, PUMC Confirmation Class Ceremony
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June 20, VBS (Vacation Bible School). Register here.
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July 9, Summer Cycle Ministry
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July 22, Missions Trip to Philippi, WVa
Every Sunday - In Person and Streaming Services.
- Traditional at 9:00 am
- Common Ground Contemporary at 11:15 am
Weekly Events
- Sunday
- The Cornerstone Class meets at 10:00 am.
- Children's Sunday School Class meets at 10:00 am.
- Connections Video and Discussion meets at 10:00 am
- Middle School Class meets at 10:00 am
- Youth Sunday School Class meets at 10:00 am.
- The Seeker Sunday School Class meets at 10:15 am.
- The Turning Point Youth Group at 4:00 pm
- Monday
- Mary Martha Circle, in person and online
- Boy Scout Troop 1530 meets in-person at 7:00 pm
- Tuesday
- Staff Meeting at 11:00 am.
- Carillon Ringers at 6:45 pm
- Joy Ringers at 7:30 pm
- Wednesday
- Ruth Circle meets on Zoom at 10 am
- Thursday
- AV and Worship Team Rehearsals in-person at 6:00 pm
- Choir Rehearsal at 7:30 pm
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