Epiphany Sunday, 10:00 am on January 4

Epiphany is the day Christians remember the coming of the Magi to visit Jesus, bringing their gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh.

It occurs on Jan. 6 every year, the 13th day of the Christmas season. The word "epiphany," from the Greek word epiphania, means appearance or manifestation.

The arrival of these visitors was a sign that the incarnation of God in Christ had been made known and was recognized by the heavens to the whole world, so that even Gentile wise men from the East came to pay him homage. This is an observance of great majesty, solemnity and awe.

An even more ancient Christian celebration than Christmas, Epiphany originally focused on the nativity, God’s incarnation (God made flesh) in the birth of Jesus Christ, and Christ’s baptism. After the late fourth century, as Advent developed as a season of baptismal preparation in addition to Lent, Epiphany became associated with baptism. This is why we see images of the three Magi on many older baptismal fonts.

Epiphany Sunday – January 4, 2026 

On Sunday, January 4, 2026, we celebrate Epiphany, marking the revelation of Christ as light for all people. Pastor Bruce Johnson will preach on “Good News for the Nations,” drawing from these scriptures:

This service proclaims God’s light breaking into the world—good news that reaches every nation, culture, and heart.

 Special Music in Worship:

  • Prelude: The Joy Ringers

  • Postlude: Piano–Organ Duo

Holy Communion will be celebrated as we gather at Christ’s table and renew our commitment to follow the Light of the World.

Whether you join us in person or online, we invite you to worship with us as we begin the new year guided by Christ’s light and love.

Epiphany Worship Service
January 4, 2026 at 10:00 am

Latest Sermon

The Pioneer of Our Salvation

December 28, 2025
by Pastor Bruce Johnson

Pastor Bruce Johnson preached on “The Pioneer of Our Salvation” — a message of hope, guidance, and God’s enduring presence with us.

Sermon Archive

Sunday School Classes
Sunday School for Everyone!

Time: Every Sunday
Location: On Zoom and In Person

Children's Sunday School

Time: Every Sunday, 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM
Location: In Person

Youth Sunday School Class

Time: Every Sunday, 11:15 AM - 12:15 PM
Location: In Person

Adult Sunday School Classes

Time: Every Sunday, 9:00 AM - 10:00 AM
Location: In Person

Next Events

Request a room by clicking here and choosing "Submit Event.
You will get an email when your event is approved.

Lectio Divina

January 1, 2026

Lectio Divina, or “divine reading” is a traditional Christian practice that helps you dive deeply into a...

Bread of Life

January 3, 2026

Join Us for Bread of Life!  Get ready to roll up your sleeves and spread some love!  What: Bread of Life...

Praying Our Faith

January 4, 2026

Praying Our Faith Pender members and friends from both services meet in 218/220  to pray for the church and to...

Opportunities to Serve

Lend a helping hand to our local heroes by contributing to the Pender Police Rest Stop! We are currently in need of bottled water.

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!


The Pender Mini Food Pantry is officially open and ready to serve our community! This little structure—built as an Eagle Scout Project by one of Pender’s Boy Scouts—is a beautiful example of service, compassion, and creativity.

At first glance, it looks a lot like a Little Free Library, but instead of books, it’s stocked with nonperishable food for anyone in need. It’s a simple yet powerful way to share kindness and nourishment in our neighborhood.

What’s Inside:
As of this writing, the pantry is filled with a wide variety of items, including:

  • Canned tuna, chicken, chili, and soup
  • Broth, vegetables, pumpkin, and apple sauce
  • Shelf-stable milk, peach slices, mandarin oranges, and individual fruit packs
  • Jello, pudding cups, mac and cheese servings, and mashed potatoes
  • Coffee, oatmeal, ketchup, gravy packets, and cooking oil

It’s truly a community effort—and every contribution helps keep it going.

Anyone is welcome to take what they need or to donate food items to keep the pantry stocked. When you give, please remember our guiding principle:
Give with dignity. Only donate items you’d feel comfortable using yourself.