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 (
) or Ahnnalise Stevens-Jennings (
)
June 15 and 16, Mary O'Connor, Pender Director of Communications, will play balalaika at Capitol One Hall and Bradley Hills Presbyterian Church as part of the Washington Balalaika Orchestra. 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.
Recent Past Shining Events
Linda Konya, Pender's talented artist, drew this picture of Pender's altar for the Missions Celebration, The Hope and Light of Jesus Christ.
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!
Morning Yoga with Shelly Young: Kicked off with zen vibes! Yoga mats dotted the lawn as Chris Atwood Foundation Executive Director, Shelly Young, led a soothing session. It was the perfect start to a day filled with positive energy.
Feasting with Smokin' Willy: From 11 AM to 1:30 PM, the air was filled with the delicious aroma of Smokin' Willy’s grilling. Burgers, hot dogs, and more—no one left hungry!
Fun Activities for All Ages:
Kids Games: Face painting, balloon animals, moon bounce and games kept the little ones giggling.
Music: Live bands set the soundtrack for our festival, getting everyone in the groove.
Petting Zoo: From fluffy bunnies to friendly goats, the petting zoo was a crowd pleaser.
Lawn Games: Cornhole, frisbee, and more for some friendly competition.
Raffle Prizes: Lucky winners took home exciting goodies!
Desserts: Sweet treats to top off a fantastic day.
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 the 9:00 am Traditional Worship May 5 with the Joy Ringers.
May 3, 2024, opening night, a group of 22 Pender People, including our current pastor, and a past pastor and family, 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!
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.