Lent & Holy Week 2026
Lenten Worship & Study
Lenten Bible Study
Join us this Lent as we travel through the wilderness with the Desert Fathers and Mothers, those early Christian pioneers who followed Christ and, like Christ, spent formational time in the wilderness. Together, we will enter into 40 days of prayer, simplicity, and renewal as we prepare for Easter. Daily devotionals are available on the Lectio 365 app, and we will also gather in the Fellowship Hall on Wednesdays in Lent for study and discussion starting February 18. Note that, while regular sessions of this study will be at 11:00am, the February 18 session will be at 10:30am to allow for the Ash Wednesday noon service.
Lenten Sermon Series
Mary Oliver’s poem “When I Am Among the Trees” asks readers to slow down and remember why we are here. In many ways, the season of Lent is much like this invitation. Lent is not a sprint to Easter. It is a slow walk, a forty-day journey shaped by reflection, repentance, and renewal. It is the season that invites us to pause, to tell the truth about our lives, and to make space for God to do deep, often hidden work within us. his season reminds us that transformation comes through faithfulness, through slowing down, and through prayer, generosity, self-examination, and trust that God is still growing something good even when the branches look bare. Come journey Among the Trees as we allow God to shape us into people who reflect Christ’s light in a weary world.
Holy Week Services
Palm Sunday
March 29, In-person and livestreamed at 9:30am
Join us on Palm Sunday during the 9:30am service for a beloved Fairfax UMC tradition. Presented by the Chancel Choir, the Palm Sunday Cantata helps us prepare our hearts for Holy Week. If you are interested in joining the choir as a short-term member for this event, please contact Mike Horanski at mhoranski@fairfaxumc.org. Any singers who would like to join are welcome.
Maundy Thursday Service
April 2, 7:00pm
As we journey “among the trees” this Lent, Maundy Thursday invites us to linger at the roots of our faith, where love is practiced quietly and transformation begins close to the ground. On the night of the Last Supper, Jesus knelt and washed the disciples’ feet, showing us that love is lived through humility, service, and self-giving grace. This Maundy Thursday, we follow his example as we consider the way that Jesus lowered himself in a tangible way before he journeyed to the Cross. This service is gentle, meaningful, and participatory. Come as you are, whether you choose to take part in foot-washing or simply wish to witness and reflect. Worship begins at 7:00pm.
Stations of the Cross
April 3, Offered in the Sanctuary between 7:00am and 7:00pm
Stations of the Cross returns for this year’s Good Friday. As you visit the fourteen stations on our self-directed devotional journey and reflect on the provided scripture and prayers, you trace the path of the final hours of Jesus’ life and gain an increased appreciation for all Christ has done for His people. All are welcome to come and stay as long as you wish.
Easter Sunrise Service
April 5, In-Person Only at 6:30am
Welcome the dawn of Easter Sunday at Fairfax UMC’s Easter Sunrise Service, offered at 6:30am in the church courtyard. Gather for worship at this youth-led service, then gather for an Easter Breakfast in the Fellowship Hall. In the event of bad weather, the service will be held in the sanctuary. Come and glorify our risen Savior together!
Easter Sunday Service
April 5, In-Person and livestreamded at 9:30am
Whether you’re a member, a visitor, or part of our virtual family, we invite you to come celebrate our Savior’s resurrection at our 9:30am Easter Sunday service. Enjoy beautiful worship and a reminder of Christ’s love and what it means for us. After the service, we invite you to step outside and take photos by the cross.