








Destined in Love
At our 8:15, 9:30 and 11:00 am services on October 13, Guest Speaker Thom Jones will preach on “Destined in Love” based on scriptures Ephesians 1:3-10 and Ephesians 1:11-14.
The book of Ephesians hits on a wide range of moral and ethical behaviors, designed to ensure believers are living up their (our) heavenly calling. As we continue in our faith from day to day, month to month, and year to year, the temptation to get too comfortable will always exist. However, the Apostle Paul presented the gift of God in Christ and the benefits we receive so clearly that we cannot help but ask ourselves if our lives reflect that reality as they should.
How have you grown in your Christian life since you came to faith in Jesus Christ? The words in Paul’s letter to the Ephesians makes clear that spiritual growth occurs primarily in community with others – in other words: WE NEED YOU AT CHURCH.
Maturity yields benefits in believers’ moral lives, but it extends far beyond that as well. Increased maturity benefits the community at large, leading us to present a more consistent witness to the working of God in our lives as well as protecting us from the harmful divisions and quarrels that have plagued so many communities throughout history.
God so loved the world – He has destined us in love. Come to church; feel the love, and help spread His word.
We hope to see you in church on Sunday.
Also on Sunday

Easter Worship Services — April 21:
Easter Sunday Services: On Easter, Sunday April 21, there will be no Sunday School so that families can worship the risen Christ together. There will be a Nursery and another room for 3-5 year olds open at the 8:15, 9:30, and 11 o’clock services. If you have any questions please contact Elizabeth.”
What do you mean by Traditional-Blended or Contemporary worship?
We understand that people have different styles for connecting with God in a meaningful and personal way. Pender offers two styles: Traditional-Blended and Contemporary. You will discover the people who attend these worship services are varied in age.
Traditional-Blended is largely traditional in flavor from a wonderful organ and beautiful hymns, choral, orchestra, children’s or bell music and traditional surroundings in our main sanctuary. Mrs. Theresa Carpenter leads the choir, and several servant volunteers are involved. During these services there is a time for the children on the altar steps at the front, and all children are invited to enjoy!
Contemporary worship is led by our praise band in a rock-and-roll style with many contemporary Christian songs that you might hear on the radio. Pastor Catharine delivers the message, often enhanced with video or drama. Our contemporary worship services are more casual in nature, so wear your jeans or shorts if you want to.
Come for this Easter’s Traditional Worship to experience special music (Handel’s Hallelujah Chorus) and a special message brought by Pastor Catharine.
Come for this Easter’s Contemporary Worship to experience great rock-style music and a special message brought by Pastor Catharine. Our contemporary worship service is called “Common Ground” and is offered at 9:30 every Sunday, including Easter!
All of our worship is Christ-centered, Biblically-minded and relevant to life today. Pender UMC desires that you feel God’s Spirit nurturing you and that in worship you experience the very real presence of Christ with us. May you be blessed by God as you gather with us.
Where do I enter the building?
First, we want you to know that our church has worked hard to create a building with access for all. Whether you find yourself in a wheelchair or carting babies in a buggy, you’ll find automatically opening doors and large entrances.
As you enter the parking lot, you will notice two doors, both under porticos so that you may get out of the rain if it is wet. To enter through the main sanctuary entrance doors, simply look for the semi-circular driveway.
If you enter the sliding glass doors entrance, make a left into the hallway to the end where you will notice the welcome area on your left.
What do my children do?
We invite older children (3rd grade and up) to become fully involved in worship. At the back of the sanctuary are “children’s bulletins” and supplies like crayons.
Our younger children have the option of remaining with their family or being cared for by our wonderful nursery and childcare staff. Childcare is available for children ages birth through 2nd grade in the lower level of our building. Ask an Usher to help you find where to take your children!
On Easter, Sunday April 21, there will be no Sunday School so that families can worship the risen Christ together. There will be a Nursery and another room for 3-5 year olds open at the 8:15, 9:30, and 11 o’clock services. If you have any questions please contact Elizabeth.”
Where do I park?
We attempt to have plenty of parking on Easter morning for our guests. However, we suggest you plan to arrive early, and if parking is full on our lot, there is parking on the street.
What if I need further information?
Our friendly volunteers and staff will welcome your questions! Please call our church office at 703-278-8023 between 9 am and 3 pm, Monday through Friday. Once at Pender, ask any friendly face for help! We are here to assist you.
Easter Offering:
Our Easter Offering this year will support:
