Christmas in November

November 16 and 17, we packed our bags and headed to the town of Philippi, West Virginia, on a mission of love and cheer! Our youth mission trip is all about spreading joy to those living on Chestnut Ridge who might not otherwise experience the magic of Christmas!

Everyone had the opportunity to select a child from our Angel tree.  Follow the instructions on the card to buy, pray over, and donate the gift that will light up their faces and fill their hearts with joy!

Our Pender Team joined forces with local Philippi youth to wrap those gifts with love!

This mission trip is not just about giving; it’s about sharing hope, love, and the true meaning of Christmas. Let’s show the world the power of God and the promise of the season!

We Brought hope and love to Chestnut Ridge again this Christmas!

Advent Began on November 30

The First Sunday of Advent (Christ Our Hope)

Scripture Readings: Isaiah 2:1-5, Psalm 122 >br> Romans 13:11-14, Matthew 24:36-44

Advent, derived from the Latin word "adventus" meaning "coming" or "visit," is a season imbued with anticipation and reflection, marking the commencement of the Christian liturgical year. Spanning four Sundays leading up to Christmas and culminating on Christmas Eve, Advent is a time of spiritual preparation, where Christians across the world ready their hearts for the celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ.

This season is a journey through time—honoring the deep yearning of Jews for a Messiah and our own profound need for forgiveness, salvation, and a fresh start. Advent is a duality of celebration: it commemorates the historical birth of Jesus in a modest Bethlehem stable while simultaneously looking forward to the second coming of Christ, fulfilling the promises of the first.

Contrary to popular belief, the Christmas celebration extends beyond a single day. In Christian tradition, the festive season stretches from the sundown of December 24 (Christmas Eve) through to the Epiphany on January 6, often referred to as "the 12 days of Christmas."

The Advent Wreath, an emblem of this sacred period, traditionally adorns the dinner table as a vivid reminder of the holy season. With origins tracing back to Germany, the wreath is a circle of evergreen, symbolizing eternal life and unending growth, and is adorned with four candles—three purple and one pink. Each candle, lit progressively each Sunday of Advent, illuminates a path through the themes of hope, love, joy, and peace, mirroring the increasing light of Christ's presence in the world.

Purple, the traditional color of Advent symbolizing penitence and royalty, is often used, though some churches have adopted blue, the color of hope. Today, as Christmas symbols and decorations blend into Advent observance, hues of red, green, and gold are increasingly seen.

Advent is not merely a countdown to Christmas; it's an invitation to delve deeper into the spiritual essence of this time of year. It's a call to embrace the words of Martin Luther King: "To be a Christian without prayer, is no more possible than to be alive without breathing." Each candle of the Advent Wreath, from the first symbolizing hope to the last radiating peace, invites us to reflect, pray, and prepare our hearts for the profound mystery and joy of the birth of Christ.

A few years ago, Pender members made short videos called “Advent Kindness Kits”. You can see them here:

Decorate for Christmas

Join us as to help bring the holiday spirit to life by decorating the Christmas trees in the narthex and Gathering Place, and adding beautiful Chrismon Trees to the sanctuary.

History of the Chrismon Tree:
The word “Chrismon” blends “Christ” and “monogram,” meaning “symbols of Christ.” These symbols have been used throughout history to represent the Christian faith, especially during times when public worship was restricted. Early Christians often used symbols like the fish to discreetly mark places of worship or identify fellow believers.

In 1957, Mrs. Harry W. Spencer of the Lutheran Church of the Ascension in Danville, Virginia, introduced Chrismons as a Christ-centered alternative to traditional Christmas decorations. Since then, Chrismon trees have adorned churches around the world during Advent and Christmas, filled with ornaments rich in spiritual meaning.

Significance of Chrismon Trees:
Chrismon trees are traditionally adorned with white and gold ornaments to symbolize the perfection, purity, nobility, and glory of Christ. The evergreen tree itself represents eternal life, while its white lights remind us that Christ is the Light of the World.

Popular Chrismon Ornament Symbols:
* Star: Represents the Bethlehem star, the wounds of Jesus, or the gospels.
* Triangle: Symbolizes the Holy Trinity—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
* Cross: Comes in many forms, each with unique meaning, such as the Jerusalem Cross or Latin Cross.
* Dove: A symbol of the Holy Spirit.
* Lamb: Represents Jesus, the Lamb of God.
* Fish: An ancient symbol used to guide Christians to places of worship.

This tradition is a wonderful way to keep Christ at the center of our celebrations, and we are so grateful to our youth for their contribution to making this season extra special.

The background music is played by Pender's Carillon Ringers as they shared "Come, thou long expected Jesus” as the prelude to worship on December 8, 2024.

United Women of Faith Cookie Exchange

Come begin your holiday season with a Christmas Cookie Exchange in the Gathering Place! Bring 3 dozen decorated cookies to share and exchange. Stay and chat over tea, coffee and hot apple cider -- and you will have some lovely cookies to take home and enjoy! We'll have some fun prizes too!

Also we'll accept cookie donations for the Juvenile Detention Center (JDC) Christmas Party which will be held at JDC the following week.

Bread of Life

Join Us for Bread of Life!

Get ready to roll up your sleeves and spread some love!

What:Bread of Life – A chance to give back to the community!
When: First Saturday of every month, Starting October 5th! 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!

The Second Sunday of Advent (Christ the Way)

Scripture Readings: Isaiah 11:1-10, Psalm 72:1-7, 18-19, Romans 15:4-13, Matthew 3:1-12
Holy Communion, Carillon Handbells

Fellowship Feast

Please bring a salad or dessert to share. We will provide homemade soup and bread.

Fresh bread made for Communion Sundays and First Sunday Fellowship Feast luncheons.

Extra loaves are donated next day to the Lamb Center.

Santa's Ride Toy Donation

Christmas Celebration at Fairfax Juvenile Detention Center

Pender United Methodist Church, will host a Christmas Celebration party at the Fairfax Juvenile Detention Center (JDC).

This is an annual social engagement of our congregation, people from the community, and incarcerated youth, and the staff that serve and support them at Fairfax JDC.

No special skills needed, come with an open heart and spirit to sing carols, eat pizza, and share God's love with incarcerated youth.

Christmas Caroling

Christmas Caroling, Greenbriar, 3:00pm

Let's make merry memories!

Join us at Pender at 3:00 pm for a festive journey through the neighborhood, spreading the holiday cheer with joyous Christmas carols.

Together, we'll light up the streets with our voices and share the magic of the season!

Advent Continues

The Third Sunday of Advent (Christ Our Joy)

Scripture Readings: Isaiah 35:1-10, Luke 1:46b-55 James 5:7-10, Matthew 11:2-11
Joy Ringers Handbells

The season of Advent, which comes comes from the Latin word adventus meaning "coming" or "visit," begins four Sundays before Christmas and ends on Christmas Eve. Advent is the beginning of the church year for Christians.

During Advent, we prepare for and anticipate the coming of Christ. We remember the longing of Jews for a Messiah and our own longing for and need of forgiveness, salvation and a new beginning. Even as we look back and celebrate the birth of Jesus in a humble stable in Bethlehem, we also look forward anticipating the second coming of Christ as the fulfillment of all that was promised by his first coming.

Although we are accustomed to celebrating Christmas on a single day, in both Christian tradition and on the church calendar, the Christmas season lasts from sundown on Dec. 24 (Christmas Eve) through Epiphany of the Lord (Jan. 6). This is sometimes referred to as "the 12 days of Christmas."

Advent begins with the fourth Sunday before Christmas Day.

The color for Advent has traditionally been purple, although some churches have adopted blue. In practice, however, as churches increasingly incorporate the symbols and decorations of Christmas during Advent, more and more red, green and gold are appearing. The United Methodist Book of Worship upholds the traditional color of purple for Advent, signifying penitence and royalty, but also allows blue, the color of hope."

Adapted from https://www.resourceumc.org/en/content/to-be-united-methodist-what-is-advent

Advent Continues

The Fourth Sunday of Advent (Christ Our Peace)

Scripture Readings: Isaiah 7:10-16, Psalm 80:1-7, 17-19 Romans 1:1-7, Matthew 1:18-25
Service of Word, Drama, and Song, with children and youth

The season of Advent, which comes comes from the Latin word adventus meaning "coming" or "visit," begins four Sundays before Christmas and ends on Christmas Eve. Advent is the beginning of the church year for Christians.

"The Ultimate Gift” on December 21, 2025, The Fourth Sunday of Advent

Join us at Pender UMC for a heartwarming and joyful service as we draw near to Christmas!

Jane McKee will share a special reflection titled “The Ultimate Gift.”

Our children, youth, and adults will present the delightful skit: “No Room, No Wi-Fi, No Problem!” — a fun and meaningful reminder of the true spirit of Christmas in today’s world.

Scriptures for the day include: Isaiah 9:6–7, Isaiah 7:10–14, Micah 5:2, and Matthew 1:18–25.

Bring your friends and family for this festive Sunday of story, song, and anticipation as we prepare our hearts to welcome Christ, our greatest gift.

Whether in person or online, those who join will be renewed by God’s Word, music, and the warmth of Christian community.

Pender United Methodist Church
12401 Alder Woods Drive, Fairfax, VA

Can’t attend in person? Watch the livestream or replay on our YouTube channel!

Services are also posted in our sermon archive.

Join us live at Pender UMC
12401 Alder Woods Drive, Fairfax, VA US 22033

Do you need Closed Captioning/Subtitles?
You do not need to be a Facebook member to watch the Sunday service here.

During Advent, we prepare for and anticipate the coming of Christ. We remember the longing of Jews for a Messiah and our own longing for and need of forgiveness, salvation and a new beginning. Even as we look back and celebrate the birth of Jesus in a humble stable in Bethlehem, we also look forward anticipating the second coming of Christ as the fulfillment of all that was promised by his first coming.

Although we are accustomed to celebrating Christmas on a single day, in both Christian tradition and on the church calendar, the Christmas season lasts from sundown on Dec. 24 (Christmas Eve) through Epiphany of the Lord (Jan. 6). This is sometimes referred to as "the 12 days of Christmas."

Advent begins with the fourth Sunday before Christmas Day.

The color for Advent has traditionally been purple, although some churches have adopted blue. In practice, however, as churches increasingly incorporate the symbols and decorations of Christmas during Advent, more and more red, green and gold are appearing. The United Methodist Book of Worship upholds the traditional color of purple for Advent, signifying penitence and royalty, but also allows blue, the color of hope."

Adapted from https://www.resourceumc.org/en/content/to-be-united-methodist-what-is-advent

Christmas Eve 7:00 pm

Candles, Carols and Communion

Scripture Readings: Isaiah 9:2-7, Psalm 96 Titus 2:11-14, Luke 2:1-20
Service of Candlelight, Communion, and Special Music
Christmas Offering for Missions

Step into the warmth and joy of our Christmas Eve candlelight service, a time-honored tradition that promises to fill your heart with the spirit of the season. As flickering candles cast a soft, inviting glow, you'll be enveloped in the rich harmonies of cherished Christmas carols. Sing along with us, letting the familiar melodies transport you to a place of peace and nostalgia.

Immerse yourself in the profound beauty of scripture reading and inspiring preaching, offering moments of reflection and hope. This is a time to reconnect with the essence of Christmas and find solace in its timeless messages.

A highlight of our service is the Holy Communion, a sacred and unifying experience that brings us closer together as a community of faith. It's a moment to pause, give thanks, and feel the presence of something greater than ourselves.

And, for a truly unique experience, our music will be a harmonious blend of the old and the new. The Traditional and Common Ground teams are joining forces to create a musical tapestry that weaves classical hymns with contemporary tunes. This blend of music promises to lift your spirits and leave you with a heart full of Christmas cheer.

Join us for an evening where community, tradition, and celebration come together in a beautiful tapestry of festive joy. We can't wait to share this special night with you!

Christmas Morning 11:00 am

Join KUMC Koinonia and Pender UMC for a special joint Christmas Day service as we celebrate the birth of Christ together in unity and joy!

Sermon: "The Revealed Mystery"
Preached by Rev. Bruce Johnson (Pender UMC)

Scripture: John 1:1–14 — The Word became flesh and dwelt among us!

Rev. Young Bong Kim (KUMC Koinonia) will lead the service,
Rev. Keon Huh will share a special Children’s Message.

Come celebrate the light of Christ with joyful hearts and a spirit of togetherness. All are welcome!

Livestream will be by KUMC

The First Sunday after Christmas, 10:00 am

Join us at Pender UMC for a joyful worship service as we continue to celebrate the season of Christ’s birth!

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

The service will include a baptism, a sacred celebration of new life in Christ.

We’ll also be singing favorite Christmas carols by request, so come ready to raise your voice in joyful praise!

Scriptures for the day: Isaiah 63:7–9 | Hebrews 2:10–18 | Matthew 2:13–23

All are welcome—come as you are and continue the Christmas celebration with us!

Whether in person or online, those who join will be renewed by God’s Word, music, and the warmth of Christian community.

Can’t attend in person? Watch the livestream or replay on our YouTube channel!

Pender Worship Service
December 28, 2025 at 10:00 am

Watch Night, 8:00 pm on December 31

Pastor Youngbong Kim will preach

Scripture Readings: Ecclesiastes 3:1-3, Psalm 8 Revelation 21:1-6a, Matthew 25:31-46

As the clock ticks toward a new beginning, Pender and KUMC will host a heartfelt celebration to welcome 2026!

On December 31st at 8 PM, we will come together for a special combined worship service, embracing the new year with open arms and uplifted spirits.

The atmosphere will be filled with joy, reflection, and anticipation as we prepare to bid farewell to the old year and step into the promises of 2026.

Livestream will be by KUMC

Epiphany, January 6

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:

• Isaiah 60:1–6

• Ephesians 3:1–12

• Matthew 2:1–12

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, January 6

Have you ever had an epiphany?

Did you know the word also refers to an ancient church holiday celebrated on January 6?

In this quick video from The United Methodist Church, learn how a single celestially-guided voyage, which led magi to Baby Jesus, was an epiphany for the whole world.

Matthew 2:1-12 tells the story of the Magi (wise men) from the East who, guided by a star, traveled to Jerusalem seeking the newborn "King of the Jews," Jesus, to worship Him, disturbing King Herod, who secretly plotted to find the child and have Him killed, but the Magi found Jesus in Bethlehem, rejoiced, offered gifts, and were warned in a dream to return home by another route, avoiding Herod. 

Key Events in Matthew 2:1-12:

1. Arrival of the Magi: Wise men from the East arrive in Jerusalem asking for the newborn king, mentioning they saw His star in the East.
2. Herod's Disturbance: King Herod and Jerusalem are troubled by this news, and Herod consults the chief priests and teachers of the law.
3. Prophecy of Bethlehem: They tell Herod the Messiah will be born in Bethlehem, citing the prophet (Micah 5:2).
4. Herod's Deception: Herod secretly calls the Magi, learns the star's timing, and sends them to Bethlehem to find the child, asking them to report back so he too can "worship" Him (though he intends to kill Jesus).
5. The Star Returns: The star the Magi saw leads them to the exact spot where Jesus is in Bethlehem, filling them with great joy.
6. Worship & Gifts: They enter the house, see Jesus with Mary, bow down, and worship Him, presenting gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh (though gifts are mentioned in verses 11, not 12).
7. Divine Warning: God warns the Magi in a dream not to return to Herod, so they go back to their own country by a different road. 

Themes:

• Epiphany: The revelation of Jesus as King to the Gentiles (non-Jews).
• Faith vs. Fear: The Magi's faith and worship contrast with Herod's fear and jealousy.
• Divine Guidance: God uses the star and dreams to guide His people and protect His Son.