Fairfax United Methodist Church

Sing with Lessons & Carols!
2024-12-05 19:00 - 20:30 (America/New_York) | Fairfax United Methodist Church, 10300 Stratford Avenue, Fairfax, VA, 22030, United States
Lessons & Carols, a special service of music and Scripture readings, is a beloved Christmas tradition at Fairfax UMC. If you would like to be a part of Lessons & Carols, we invite you to come and sing as a short-term choir member. Rehearsals are scheduled for December 5, 12, and 19 at 7:00–8:30pm in the Choir Room. High school students and adults from the community are also welcome to join. If you are able to participate, please contact Mike Horanski at mhoranski@fairfaxumc.org so we can have music and seats ready for everyone.

Family Movie Outing
2024-12-08 14:00 - 16:00
On Sunday, December 8, GROW Kids Ministry is going to see Moana 2 together in theaters! There’s no fee to attend, but please RSVP by December 4 so we know how many tickets to purchase. Click here to let us know you’re coming!

Holiday Market
2024-12-20 17:00 - 20:00
The Holiday Market returns on Friday, December 20, 5:00–8:00pm. This event provides for local families who have not been sponsored for Christmas and would otherwise be left out of the festivities. We offer parents a night to come pick out a new, unwrapped, age-appropriate gift for each of their children, as well as gently used books and coats to add to their holiday gift-giving, at no cost to them. Parents can also wrap their children’s gifts in our free gift-wrap room, and families receive a $20 Walmart gift card and, thanks to a generous endowment from the church, a $30 Butterball gift check to further assist them in celebrating.
As a churchwide mission event, the Holiday Market requires plenty of hands and help to make it a success! A donation bin will be available in the Narthex starting November 3, and we invite you to donate new, unwrapped toys, gently used books, coats, stocking stuffers, and other items, or $20 Walmart gift cards as you are able. We also need volunteers to help set up, run, and clean up after the event. A sign-up sheet with one-hour time slots is available by clicking here. We encourage you to sign up for whatever time commitment works best for you. If you have any questions, please contact Leslie Carter by email at lesliecarterre@aol.com.

Holiday Market
2024-12-20 17:00 - 20:00
As the seasons of Thanksgiving and Christmas quickly approach, we need your help for the Holiday Market. This event, held on Friday, December 20, at 5:00–8:00pm, provides for area families who have not been sponsored for Christmas. We offer parents an opportunity to pick out and wrap gifts for each of their children, as well as stocking stuffers and a $20 Walmart gift card, at no cost to them. Donation bins are available in the Narthex and by the Multi-Purpose Room for you to give new, unwrapped toys, gently used books, coats, and stocking stuffers until December 15. Gift card donations can be given to the ministers or placed in the Lay Leader mail box. Additionally, we need volunteers to help set up, run, and clean up after the event. A sign-up sheet is available by clicking here; please consider how you might be able to serve. If you have any questions, please reach out to Leslie Carter by email at lesliecarterre@aol.com.

Lessons & Carols
2024-12-22 09:30 - 10:30
Our beloved Lessons & Carols service returns for the 9:30am worship service on December 22. This year, the choir will present a special Advent cantata, The Star Arising by Joseph M. Martin, which features a blend of beloved carol tunes and original seasonal selections that carry listeners through the account of Jesus’ birth. Immediately following the Lessons & Carols service, everyone is invited to gather in the Fellowship Hall to enjoy Christmas cookies and coffee together. Please come and bring a batch of your favorite treats to share.

Christmas Eve
2024-12-24 16:00 - 17:00
We invite you to come and bring your friends and neighbors as we gather on Christmas Eve to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, the hope and salvation for all the world. Join us at 4:00pm or 7:00pm for music, scripture, and an inspired message. The 4:00pm service includes a children’s message, but children are welcome at both services. Additionally, Communion is offered at both services. Come rejoice with us at this special Christmas Eve service!

Super Bowl Sub Sandwiches
2025-01-01 - 2025-02-09
Are you hungry? Look no further than THRIVE Youth Ministry. Leading up to and during the week of Super Bowl Sunday, the youth group is collecting orders for sub sandwiches that you can enjoy during the big game. You can place your orders by clicking here. The deadline for orders is Friday, February 7, and sandwiches will be ready for pickup in the Fellowship Hall on Sunday, February 9, at 11:00am.

PJs & Pop Tarts
2025-01-05 09:30 - 10:30
Kids programming returns in the New Year on January 5! Kids are invited to wear their pajamas as we celebrate the new year upstairs during the 9:30am service. Looking for a new way to serve in the new year? Give the Kids Ministry a try and click here to sign up for a Sunday or two.

English as a Second Language (ESL) Classes
2025-01-15 19:00 - 21:00
The spring session of English as a Second Language (ESL) classes at our church runs January 15 through April 2. Classes are held Wednesdays at 7:00–9:00pm. These classes support individuals who want to build their English skills in a warm and welcoming environment. Classes are for adults age 18 and older. The cost for this class is $30 for new students or $10 for students returning from the Fall 2024 session. To learn more or to inquire about assistance with the fees for this class, please reach out to Laura Zotian by email at eslatfairfaxumc@gmail.com or by phone at 703-463-7563.

Endowment Grants
2025-02-09 - 2025-03-10
The Endowment Committee is pleased to announce that our church has funds available for grants in 2025. If any member of the church congregation or staff has a worthwhile project that can improve our ministries in the areas of worship, music, learning, congregational care, fellowship, outreach/missions, or church facilities, and the item or project is not already a line item in the church budget, you are encouraged to complete a grant application. Applications are available at the church office or by clicking here. The completed application must be delivered to Dawn Conrow at the church office no later than March 10, 2025, to be considered by the Endowment Committee. The grant applications should also have been previewed and approved by the Church Pillar Chair who over-sees the area of focus of the grant request. If approved, funding for approved grants can begin as early as mid-April.

GriefShare 2025
2025-02-09 10:30 - 11:30
If you are struggling with loss and looking for support, hope, and healing, we invite you to participate in the free 13-week GriefShare group. Part 1 is planned for February 9 through April 6, and Part 2 is planned for April 26 through May 18 (with no session on Mother’s Day). All sessions are held on Sundays after the service (about 10:30am) in the Multi-Purpose Room and include refreshments.

Kings of Israel Study
2025-02-09 10:30 - 12:00
Join Dick Donovan after the worship service on February 9, 16, and 23 for a Bible study examining the beginning of Israel’s monarchy. The study will cover King Saul, King David, and more. The study meets in Room 112, and childcare is available if needed. Please let Rev. Schroeder or the office know beforehand.

Parents’ Night Out
2025-02-28 17:30 - 20:30
Young adults and parents at Fairfax UMC are invited to meet and build connections with others in a similar stage of life on Friday, February 28. Drop your kids off at Fairfax UMC at 5:30pm, then join others for a casual dinner at P.J. Skidoos starting at 5:45pm. While you enjoy a meal and conversation, kids can enjoy their own dinner, do fun activities, and learn about Lent. Click here to RSVP.

Shrove Tuesday Pancake Dinner
2025-03-04 17:00 - 19:00
Come to the Fellowship Hall on March 4 between 5:00 and 7:00pm to enjoy a traditional Shrove Tuesday pancake dinner and fellowship sponsored by the Men’s Ministry. The price of the meal is your generous donation. All are welcome!

Ash Wednesday Services
2025-03-05 12:00 - 13:00
On Ash Wednesday, March 5, Fairfax UMC offers services at noon and 7:00pm. Both services include an opportunity for the imposition of ashes. Please join us for this time of prayer and spiritual preparation as we begin our Lenten journeys together.

Hypothermia Shelter
2025-03-09 - 2025-03-16
Fairfax UMC is joining with the FACETS Hypothermia Shelter ministry to host our homeless neighbors overnight the week of March 9–16. This ministry offers many in-person volunteer opportunities, including the following:

Early Morning (5:00–7:00am): Make coffee and serve breakfast casseroles.
Afternoon (4:00–5:00pm): Set up before guests arrive.
Evening (5:30–8:30pm): Sponsor or prepare and serve evening meals (great for a group), be available to talk with guests, make sandwiches for takeaway lunch, or donate breakfast items.
Overnight (9:30pm–5:30am): Stay awake in the Fellowship Hall and help out with tasks as needed.

Please click here to sign up for the time slot of your choice. If you cannot come in person, you can also donate items including clothing, snacks, or funds for bus passes and gas cards. We are specifically looking for the following donation types:

New men’s and women’s undergarments, socks, and warm clothing.
Individually packaged snacks.
Fresh fruit and vegetables for snacks.
Magazines and books.

Place clothing and shelf-stable snacks in the blue bins located in the Narthex or church office. Fresh fruits and vegetables can be dropped off in the main kitchen during the week of the shelter, and monetary donations marked for can be given in the offering plate or online.
Whatever the weather, we plan to provide a loving, warm, and safe environment for our brothers and sisters. Thank you for your help and support! If you have any questions, contact Christie Johnson at christie.johnson92@gmail.com.

Lenten Bible Study: The Promise and Power of Easter
2025-03-09 10:45 - 12:00
This Lent, we will study what led up to the cross to help us realize the magnitude of what God has done for us and how it can change the trajectory of our lives. There are two opportunities to participate: one on Sundays, beginning March 9, after the worship service in room 112 (childcare provided) and one on Wednesdays beginning March 19 at 11:00am in the Fellowship Hall. Whichever session you choose, we look forward to seeing you there.

Family Easter Celebration
2025-04-05 13:00 - 15:00
Celebrate Easter and the resurrection of Jesus with us on Saturday, April 5, at 1:00–3:00pm. Bring your family and invite your friends for crafts, games, sweet treats, and a petting zoo! If you are able to help, please click here to sign up or email Rev. Angela Schroeder at aschroeder@fairfaxumc.org for more information.

New Member Sunday
2025-04-06 09:30 - 10:30
Our next New Member Sunday is April 6. If you would like to join Fairfax UMC as a member during that Sunday service, please email Rev. Angela Schroeder at aschroeder@fairfaxumc.org.

Women in Faith Game Afternoon
2025-04-06 14:00 - 16:00
Women are invited to attend the United Methodist Arlington and Alexandria District Women in Faith Game afternoon on Sunday, April 6, 2:00–4:00pm here at Fairfax UMC in the Multi-Purpose Room. This event is a lot of fun and a great way to meet other ladies. Please bring a donation for our food pantry, a game to play with others, and an appetizer to share. If you have any questions, please contact Leslie Carter at 703-587-4575 or lesliecarterre@aol.com. We’ll see you there.

Palm Sunday Cantata
2025-04-13 09:30 - 10:30
Our Palm Sunday cantata during the 9:30am service on April 13 is a beloved Fairfax UMC tradition. Presented by the Chancel Choir society, this musical experience helps us ready our hearts for Holy Week. If you are interested in joining the choir as a short-term member for this cantata, please contact Mike Horanski at mhoranski@fairfaxumc.org.

Table to Cross Service
2025-04-17 19:00 - 20:00
On Holy Thursday, April 17, at 7:00pm, we gather to recall the Last Supper and the events leading up to Christ’s crucifixion. Come shift your gaze from the table to the cross as we commemorate our Savior’s sacrifice for us.

Stations of the Cross
2025-04-18 07:00 - 19:00
Stations of the Cross is a moving, self-directed devotional experience for Good Friday. As you visit the fourteen stations 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 visit and stay as long as you wish.

Easter Sunrise Service
2025-04-20 06:30 - 07:30
Come celebrate Easter Sunday with a beloved tradition! The Easter Sunrise Service is offered at 6:30am in Fairfax UMC’s courtyard and includes Communion. In the event of bad weather, the service will be held in the sanctuary. This is a location and time change from previous years. Come enjoy coffee, donuts, fellowship, and beautiful worship as we glorify our risen Savior.

Easter Sunday Service
2025-04-20 09:30 - 12:00
We celebrate our Savior’s resurrection with a 9:30am service on Easter Sunday, followed by a reception in the Fellowship Hall with refreshments, fellowship time, and an opportunity for professional family photos. Whether you’re a member, a visitor, or part of our virtual family, you’re invited to join us in worship on this glorious day either in person or online.

Discovery Days: Don’t Be Scammed!
2025-05-04 11:00 - 12:00
We have all received scam phone calls, emails, and text messages asking us to do things like purchase gift cards or pay an overdue bill or toll. These scams happen more and more each year, and the use of AI is making them increasingly sophisticated. If you want to learn how to protect yourself in these circumstances, join us May 4, 11:00am, in the Multi-Purpose Room as a representative from Invario Network Engineers walks us through ways to protect ourselves from hackers and phishing scams and what to do if we find ourselves tricked.

Lamb Center Collection
2025-06-01 - 2025-06-30
The Lamb Center is a daytime drop-in shelter that offers meals, showers, medical assistance, Bible studies, and more to individuals experiencing homelessness in Fairfax. During the month of June, Fairfax UMC is collecting items to help the Lamb Center continue its mission by filling its most urgent needs. Starting June 1, pick up a paper grocery bag and attached list of needs; then return the bags to the collection point in the Fellowship Hall by June 30. You can also click here for a list of suggested donations. If you have any questions, please call Richard Phelps on 703-204-1454 or email him at richffx552@gmail.com. Thank you for supporting this mission!

Graduate Recognition 2025
2025-06-01 09:30 - 10:30
During the June 1 worship service, Fairfax UMC will celebrate those in our community who are graduating from high school, college or advanced degrees, trade school, or similar programs. If you are a member or regular attendee of Fairfax UMC with a family members graduating this year and you would like Fairfax UMC to recognize that person, please send a photo and information to Sarah Pennington at spennington@fairfaxumc.org. Your email should include a photo of the graduate, the graduate’s name as you would like it shown on the screens, and what program the graduate has completed. You are also invited to include the graduate’s job or college plans. Graduate photographs and information must be received by Sunday, May 25, to be included. We eagerly anticipate celebrating these milestones together as a church family and praying over these graduates’ future endeavors.

Farewell Reception for Rev. Bonney
2025-06-08 10:45 - 12:00
Our church was saddened to learn that Reverend David Bonney has been appointed to a new church in the next appointment cycle. We thank Reverend Bonney for his tenure with us here at Fairfax UMC and wish him and his family the best in this next chapter. Reverend Bonney’s last Sunday at Fairfax UMC will be June 8. After the service on that day, everyone is invited to a farewell reception in the Fellowship Hall. The church will provide the cake; please bring along food to share. During the reception, we will have an open-mic time for people to express their personal gratitude for Reverend Bonney’s ministry. If you want to say a few words during this time, please contact Reverend Angela Schroeder at aschroeder@fairfaxumc.org.
There are three opportunities to express your appreciation for Reverend Bonney and his ministry. If you would like to contribute towards a love offering to thank Reverend Bonney for his pastoral leadership, please drop your check with the memo “Rev. Bonney” in the offering plate or mail it to the church. You can also click here to give online and designate your gift for “Rev. Bonney.” Additionally, we invite you to write a note or letter with your favorite memory of Reverend Bonney’s ministry and some words of encouragement, gratitude, or prayer. You can bring your note on June 8 or email it to church@fairfaxumc.org so we can print it and include it in our gift. Finally, if you have a favorite photo from Reverend Bonney’s time here, please email it to dbonney@ourskylight.com to be included in a special gift.

Young Adults' Night Out
2025-06-20 18:00 - 20:00
Come and enjoy a fun night of fellowship with other adults from Fairfax UMC! We will meet at Ornery Brewing in Fairfax City on Friday, June 20, at 6:00pm. If you have children, you can drop them off at the church starting at 5:30pm. For more information or to RSVP, please click here.
