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Courageously living and sharing God's unconditional love every day, with everyone, everywhere. UNITED WOMEN IN FAITH (UWF) FAITH. HOPE. LOVE. ACTION. United Methodist Women (UMW) is now United Women in Faith (UWF) FAITH. Women who participate in monthly circle meetings and support mission projects to grow spiritually and become more deeply rooted in Christ by putting faith into action. HOPE. Our national mission institutions empower women, care for children, educate and equip youth, care for the neglected, advocate for social justice issues, create economic opportunities, and strengthen neighborhoods. LOVE. Our members give out of their love for the world and provide financial support for local and national mission institutions, supporting 121 programs taking place in 110 countries. ACTION. UWF members’ voices are heard around the world as they call for justice on issues such as immigration, human trafficking, domestic violence, health care, and the environment. Circles Missions Events Resources Give to UWF U NITED W OMEN IN F AITH C I RCLES Any woman who wants to engage in mission work, have personal and spiritual growth with Christian women, and who wants to become involved in social action to better women, children, and families may join. It’s easy to become a member of UWF. You can talk to someone you know who is already a member, or email Lorrie Rezendes (lorretired@aol.com) or call her at 571-309-6001. UWF meets monthly during the months of September - May/June in small groups called Circles as follows: Elizabeth Circle 2nd Monday of each month | 10:30am Meeting Location: Member's Homes (Including at The Fairfax) Shirley Burgett ( saburgett@gmail.com / 703-780-7966) Elizabeth Circle are in charge of the Frozen Casserole Sale at the annual UWF Christmas Marketplace. They are group of delightful older women who want to have Christian fellowship, continue to grow spiritually, and support mission projects as everyone gracefully ages. Friendship Circle 2nd Monday of each month | 6:30pm Meeting Location: Member's Homes Lorrie Rezendes ( lorretired@aol.com / 571-309-6001) Friendship Circle is comprised of working or recently retired women who want to grow spiritually, have Christian fellowship, and work on mission projects. They are in charge of the Faith Cafe at the annual UWF Christmas Marketplace. Esther Circle 2nd Tuesday of each month | 10:00am Meeting Location: Room 132 (Library) Hettie Hervey ( hettieh@usa.net / 703-360-4625) Esther Circle enjoys doing mission projects, enjoys programs to learn about ourselves and each other and our faith, occasionally has speakers, and does two luncheons a year. They are also in charge of the White Elephant Sale at the annual UWF Christmas Marketplace. Sewing Circle 3rd Wednesday of each month | 10:00am Meeting Location: Rooms 203 Lorrie Rezendes ( lorretired@aol.com / 571-309-6001) The Sewing Circle meets monthly for fun sewing projects. We iron, cut, pin material, and machine sew projects. We sew 250 or more heart pillows for local hospital heart patients that have undergone surgery. We recently started to sew angels to uplift anyone receiving one. We start new sewing projects each year. All women are welcomed and there are jobs for all! Lydia Circle 2nd Thursday of each month | 10:30am - 12:00pm Meeting Location: Room 202 Peggy Lussier ( peggylussier47@gmail.com / 703-624-6600) Lydia Circle enjoys coming together monthly for fellowship and spiritual growth. They accept jewelry donations every Fall (August - November) to sell at the annual UWF Christmas Marketplace. Ruth Circle 2nd Thursday of each month | 5:00pm Meeting Location: Room 132 (Library) Mary Ellen Carawan ( mimi.car415@gmail.com / 207-329-4142) Ruth Circle enjoys spiritual meetings and deep friendships while welcoming those who are new to the group. Members participate in reading and discussion of UWF books, and sharing uplifting programs and projects. They are in charge of pecans sales and the Bakery Corner for the annual UWF Christmas Marketplace.

Courageously living and sharing God's unconditional love every day, with everyone, everywhere. ENGAGE MINISTRIES ENGAGE ENGAGE ENGAGE ENGAGE Engaging People for Christ Engaging People for Christ Engaging People for Christ Engaging People for Christ Ministries/Strategies for the purpose of introducing Jesus, establishing belonging through relationship—usually outside the walls of the church, but not always. Ministry Areas Community Engagement, Trunk or Treat, Blessing of the Animals, Caroling on the Corner, Fresh Expressions Events, Scouts , Wellness Classes , ACCT , Day School , etc. To learn more about the Engage Ministries at Aldersgate UMC, please contact our Engage Team at engage@aldersgate.net . Upcoming Engage Events & Activities Fellowship Riders Saturday, June 6th | 10:00am Looking for a fun way to get outside, stay active, and connect with others? Have a bike you’ve been meaning to use—or thinking about getting one? Want to explore the area while enjoying meaningful conversation and community? Look no further! It’s time for you to join Fellowship Riders ! We meet monthly to explore local trails and scenic routes together, welcoming riders of all skill levels. Each ride is a chance to slow down, enjoy God’s creation, and build meaningful connections along the way. Whether you're coming for the exercise, the conversation, or simply the joy of being outdoors, Fellowship Riders is a place where community and encouragement grow with every mile. Families are warmly welcome; youth and kids are invited to ride along too! We aim to choose routes that are friendly for a variety of ages and abilities, making it a fun and safe experience for everyone. Bring your bike, invite a friend, and come ride with us! Please sign up here! Be sure to mark your calendar for future rides! June 6th July 11th August 8th September 19th October 24th *Please note* Ride specific information will be provided closer to the date. Any questions, please reach out to Bob Johnson at robert.johnson68@cox.net Looking for a fun way to get outside, stay active, and connect with others? Have a bike you’ve been meaning to use—or thinking about getting one? Want to explore the area while enjoying meaningful conversation and community? Look no further! It’s time for you to join Fellowship Riders ! We meet monthly to explore local trails and scenic routes together, welcoming riders of all skill levels. Each ride is a chance to slow down, enjoy God’s creation, and build meaningful connections along the way. Whether you're coming for the exercise, the conversation, or simply the joy of being outdoors, Fellowship Riders is a place where community and encouragement grow with every mile. Families are warmly welcome; youth and kids are invited to ride along too! We aim to choose routes that are friendly for a variety of ages and abilities, making it a fun and safe experience for everyone. Bring your bike, invite a friend, and come ride with us! Please sign up here! Be sure to mark your calendar for future rides! June 6th July 11th August 8th September 19th October 24th *Please note* Ride specific information will be provided closer to the date. Any questions, please reach out to Bob Johnson at robert.johnson68@cox.net Lots in Our Lot! - Parking Lot Sale Saturday, June 13th from 8:00am-2:00pm 1301 Collingwood Rd. Alexandria, VA 22306 Aldersgate UMC Parking Lot Has everyone begun their Spring-cleaning extravaganzas? Maybe you don't have the yard space, or a driveway to hold your own yard sale, so that's where we come in! Rent a parking lot space, and set up your things to sell! We will be holding our 2nd annual Parking Lot Sale on Saturday, June 13th from 8am-2pm. There will also be a food truck, who can say no to that? So, get your things ready, and start selling! Click here to rent your space! If you have questions, please reach out to Laura Lewis or the Engage Team . Has everyone begun their Spring-cleaning extravaganzas? Maybe you don't have the yard space, or a driveway to hold your own yard sale, so that's where we come in! Rent a parking lot space, and set up your things to sell! We will be holding our 2nd annual Parking Lot Sale on Saturday, June 13th from 8am-2pm. There will also be a food truck, who can say no to that? So, get your things ready, and start selling! Click here to rent your space! If you have questions, please reach out to Laura Lewis or the Engage Team . 1 1 ... 1 ... 1

Courageously living and sharing God's unconditional love every day, with everyone, everywhere. WELLNESS PROGRAM Aldersgate United Methodist Church offers wellness program opportunities to the congregation and to our community. Regular Weekly Classes Gentle Yoga Gently relax and sooth your stress, renew and restore with this calming and rejuvenating class. The practice will focus on deep breathing, slow movement, gentle stretching and strengthening postures, as well as restorative postures and relaxation. Mondays 9:00am - 10:00am Wesley Hall Thursdays 11:00am - 12:00pm Wesley Hall Senior Strength & Stretch Have fun and move to the music through a variety of exercises designed to increase muscular strength, range of motion and activities for daily living. Handheld weights are offered for resistance. A chair is used for seated and/or standing support. This class is geared for healthy seniors as well as those with joint, mobility and/or balance issues. Mondays 10:30am - 11:15am Wesley Hall Wednesdays 4:00pm - 4:45pm Wesley Hall If you have questions about the classes, please contact Judy at 703-765-6555, ext. 626 or judy@aldersgate.net . Also, please print out the required ASSUMPTION OF RISK AND WAIVER OF LIABILITY and bring it with you. The classes are ongoing, and they are a gift from the church to you and the community. All are welcome to join class as long as their physician has given approval. Classes are taught by Judy Jurkowski, Aldersgate UMC Wellness Coordinator. Judy is a Certified Exercise Instructor through Aerobics and Fitness Association of America (AFAA), Les Mills International (LMI), and Silver Sneakers (Healthways, Inc). She has been teaching a wide variety of fitness classes at local gyms since 1987. Ft. Hunt Yoga Classes at Aldersgate UMC In partnership with local yoga instructor, Sara Jefferies, we will be offering to Aldersgate members and those who attend regularly free Vinyasa yoga classes on Tuesdays (January - April). The classes will be held at Aldersgate in Founders Hall from 6:30pm - 7:15pm. Please be sure to bring your yoga mat and water bottle and enter through Door 8. For others in the community attending there will be a $10 charge at the door, please use the signup so that Sara knows you are with Aldersgate. Sign-Up for Ft. Hunt Yoga Classes Vinyasa style yoga offers a full body stretch. If you'd like to learn more about Sara and the other classes she offers in the area, please check out her private Facebook group called Fort Hunt Yoga . Aldersgate United Methodist Church offers support groups to the congregation and to our community. Learn About Our Support Groups

Courageously living and sharing God's unconditional love every day, with everyone, everywhere. CHILDREN'S MINISTRY Serving children and their families from infants through 6th grade At Aldersgate UMC, we know how important a foundation in faith is for your children. Our Childrens Ministry strives to engage kids and empower families by providing Christian education, service opportunities, and fun events for the whole family. For more information about the Childrens Ministry at Aldersgate, please contact us at children@aldersgate.net . Your child’s safety is our priority. Learn about our policies and child protection procedures. Child & Youth Protection Policy Sunday School Acolyte Children's Choir Events Nursery Children's Sunday School In-person Sunday school is available for ages 4-years-old through 6th grade on Sunday mornings at 9:30am. If your child will be attending Sunday School, please sign in at the Check-In desk to receive a security sticker for you and your child. Check-In will begin at 9:15am on Sunday mornings and is located just inside Door #1. All Sunday school teachers have had a background check and follow Aldersgate's Safe Sanctuaries Policy . Register for 2025-2026 School Year **Please register to ensure enough teachers and supplies** For more information, please contact us at children@aldersgate.net . Children's Choir Calling all young musicians! Discover the joy of music through Children's Choir. At Aldersgate UMC, we believe in nurturing young voices and fostering a lifelong love of church music. All children are welcome! Who : Students in kindergarten through 6th grade Where : Day School Music Room (Room 126) -- Enter at Door #4 When : Every Tuesday from 4:15pm - 4:50pm What to Expect: Fun and Engaging Rehearsals filled with laughter, learning and music-making. An Inclusive and Supportive Environment for building friendships with like-minded kids who share an interest in music and where every child’s voice will be celebrated. Diverse Repertoire where we explore a wide range of musical genres, from traditional hymns to contemporary songs. Performances throughout the year during church services, special events, and holiday celebrations. For more information, please contact Ashley Carignan, Children's Choir Director ( childrenschoir@aldersgate.net ). Upcoming Events for Kids & Families There are plenty of opportunities for children to stay engaged at Aldersgate! Here's what's coming up! Family Baking Bonanza CHILDREN & YOUTH MINISTRIES Sunday, May 24th | 5:00pm Aldersgate UMC 1301 Collingwood Rd. Alexandria, VA 22306 Let's get baking for our Children & Youth Ministries bake sale! During fellowship time on May 31st, we’ll host a bake sale to support Youth Mission Week and Children’s VBS. If you’re in town over Memorial Day weekend, the whole family can join us at 5:00 PM for a Family Baking Bonanza during the normal Youth Group/Tribe Time hour. If you're off and away that Sunday, you are still invited to contribute baked goods (please label items, including any gluten-free or nut-free options). Kindly bring items on paper plates wrapped in cellophane before worship on Sunday morning. You can sign up HERE to give us an idea of how many will come along. Any questions, please email Ms. Jesse . During fellowship time on May 31st, we’ll host a bake sale to support Youth Mission Week and Children’s VBS. If you’re in town over Memorial Day weekend, the whole family can join us at 5:00 PM for a Family Baking Bonanza during the normal Youth Group/Tribe Time hour. If you're off and away that Sunday, you are still invited to contribute baked goods (please label items, including any gluten-free or nut-free options). Kindly bring items on paper plates wrapped in cellophane before worship on Sunday morning. You can sign up HERE to give us an idea of how many will come along. Any questions, please email Ms. Jesse . Children & Youth Sunday CHILDREN & YOUTH Sunday, May 31st | 10:00am 1301 Collingwood Rd. Alexandria, VA 22306 Come enjoy worship service led by our Aldersgate children and youth! On May 31st the children and youth will take the reins in worship! The youth band will lead us in song; kids and youth alike will serve as ushers and acolytes; and they will share scripture, prayers, and the message. It's going to be a wonderfully fun and inspiring look into how God works in, through, and with the youngest (and next to youngest) members of our church! We will work on the liturgy –– the call to worship and the prayers –– together in Sunday school, Tribe Time, and Youth Group. If your children are interested in sharing their voices and speaking during worship, please sign up here . We will rehearse on May 30th in the afternoon. On May 31st the children and youth will take the reins in worship! The youth band will lead us in song; kids and youth alike will serve as ushers and acolytes; and they will share scripture, prayers, and the message. It's going to be a wonderfully fun and inspiring look into how God works in, through, and with the youngest (and next to youngest) members of our church! We will work on the liturgy –– the call to worship and the prayers –– together in Sunday school, Tribe Time, and Youth Group. If your children are interested in sharing their voices and speaking during worship, please sign up here . We will rehearse on May 30th in the afternoon. Children's & Youth Ministry Bake Sale CHILDREN'S & YOUTH MINISTRY Sunday, May 31st | 11:00am During Fellowship Time 1301 Collingwood Rd. Alexandria, VA 22306 All proceeds benefit the Youth Mission Week and Children's VBS. Join us after the combined 10:00 AM worship service on Sunday, May 31st for a Youth and Children’s Ministry–led bake sale! During fellowship time, you’ll find a variety of homemade treats available for purchase, with all proceeds supporting Youth Mission Week and Children's VBS. Gluten-free and nut-free options will also be available. Questions? Please reach out to Bailey Johnson or Ms. Jesse ! Join us after the combined 10:00 AM worship service on Sunday, May 31st for a Youth and Children’s Ministry–led bake sale! During fellowship time, you’ll find a variety of homemade treats available for purchase, with all proceeds supporting Youth Mission Week and Children's VBS. Gluten-free and nut-free options will also be available. Questions? Please reach out to Bailey Johnson or Ms. Jesse ! 1 2 1 ... 1 2 ... 2 Nursery Your children are as important to us as they are to you (well, almost). That's why we provide a safe, loving, Christian environment for your babies and toddlers ages 3 and under while you are at worship. The nursery is available during all Sunday morning worship services in rooms 122 and 123. All staff members have had a background check, CPR training, and follow CDC safety guidelines. For more information, please contact our Director of Child Care, Corey Bales . We hope to see you this Sunday! Acolyte Ministry For more information, please contact us at children@aldersgate.net . At Aldersgate UMC, our acolytes serve as active participants in our worship services by lighting the altar candles at the beginning of our worship services, symbolizing Jesus entering the presence of the congregation. Acolytes may also carry a processional cross into the service. Acolytes serve in both the 9:30am and 11:00am worship services on Sunday mornings as well as other special services throughout the year. Aldersgate Acolytes Candlelight Companions The acolyte experience is a meaningful way for children and youth in kindergarten through 12th grade to assist the pastors in worship by bringing the light of Christ into the sanctuary. The acolyte commitment is flexible and allows children and youth to sign up according to their schedule. Acolytes may sign up for a Sunday morning worship service by clicking the button. Acolyte Sign-Up Candlelight Companions is an exciting new program designed to foster meaningful connections between parents and children through the shared experience of acolyting. This initiative will support family bonding; help children overcome potential nervousness; deepen and aid in faith development; and encourage family discussions about the importance and significance of serving as an acolyte. Adults interested in being a Candlelight Companion may sign up for a Sunday morning worship service by clicking the button, below. Acolyte Sign-Up Sunday School Volunteers Needed for the School Year We need volunteers to serve in Aldersgate's Children's Ministry! School Year: We need a roster of ~40 volunteers each week over the school year. Help us grow our Children's Ministry and support our new Director of Children's Ministry, Jesse St Clair Smith. We’re looking for lots of Sunday School volunteers for the upcoming school year! Having a strong team allows everyone the flexibility to take vacations, recover from illness, and attend worship. Please reach out to ChildrensMinistries@aldersgate.net with any questions. Volunteer for School Year Sunday School

Courageously living and sharing God's unconditional love every day, with everyone, everywhere. UNITED METHODIST MEN (UMM) Living in Christ, So Others May Know Christ United Methodist Men (UMM) is the official organization for men in The United Methodist Church at the church, district, conference, and national levels. The mission of Aldersgate UMM is to support spiritual growth and fellowship among men as well as the mission of Aldersgate, while “helping men grow in Christ, so others may know Christ.” Aldersgate UMM gathers monthly for fellowship and learning. Every other month there is an Executive Committee meeting (all are welcome to attend) where current and upcoming activities (including charitable giving) are discussed and voted upon. During the other months (except July) we put on a dinner with a guest speaker. UMM Dinners are open to everyone. Dinner speakers and topics have included noted theologian Jim Wallis on living Christ’s message in the modern world; Lead Pastor Bill John’s vision for the church, roast and reflections by outgoing Lead Pastor Randy Orndorff, an exploration of Creation Care issues, George Washington’s Mount Vernon, Fairfax County Police Department Human Trafficking Office, and a former Medical Missionary. Meetings and dinners are generally held in the evening on the second Tuesday of the month. UMM’s major fundraiser is an annual family and friends golf outing, usually held in September. Named the Aldersgate UMM Ken Galbreath Memorial Golf Tournament, after the stalwart UMM member who spearheaded the tournament for years, it raises funds to support UMM’s mission outreach. UMM has given approximately over $100,000 to local, regional, and international mission projects since 2007. In fact, all net proceeds go to support mission outreach! For more information on joining Aldersgate UMM or suggesting dinner speakers/topics or service projects for UMM, contact Tom Devine at DevineInterventionTD@gmail.com Upcoming Events

Courageously living and sharing God's unconditional love every day, with everyone, everywhere. Advent & Christmas Eve 2025 Christmas Eve Advent Events Advent Giving Christmas Eve Candlelight Services Wednesday, December 24th Volunteer for Christmas Eve Worship Order Poinsettias for Christmas Eve Altar 3pm | Family Worship + Pop-Up Children's Pageant Candlelight Worship Service with Communion (nursery available for 3 & under) Pop-Up Children's Pageant open to all children in worship - no rehearsal required! 5pm | Service of Song and Light Candlelight Worship Service with Communion (nursery available for 3 & under) 7pm | Traditional Worship Candleligh t Worship Service with Communion (no nursery available) Livestream will be available for 5pm & 7pm services (CLICK HERE ) Live nativity animals from 3:30pm - 7:00pm on the Front Lawn Special Advent & Christmas Events 1 2 3 4 5 1 ... 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 54 55 56 57 58 59 60 61 62 63 64 65 66 67 68 69 70 71 72 73 74 75 76 77 78 79 80 81 82 83 84 85 86 87 88 89 90 91 92 93 94 95 96 97 98 99 100 ... 100 Giving this Advent & Christmas Season Alternative Giving Epiphany Tree Alternative Christmas Giving Welcome to Aldersgate United Methodist Church’s 23rd annual Alternative Christmas Giving to benefit the missions and the United Methodist Church in Cambodia. We sponsor this event during Advent to give folks an opportunity to honor Jesus’s birth by giving gifts of love to serve the poor as we seek to carry out Christ's commandment to “go and make disciples.” Shoppers make contributions to mission projects in Cambodia in the name of loved ones as an alternative to buying material goods. This ministry was established and lovingly run for over two decades by Juanita Csontos. We continue this annual ministry in memory of Juanita and her passion for serving others. Alternative Giving 2025 Catalog Alternative Giving 2025 Shopping List Alternative Giving Gift Card Alternative Giving Volunteers will be at a table in Wesley Hall during Fellowship Time on November 30th, December 7th, 14th, and 21st to accept your gifts for the Cambodian Christians. You may purchase online, or you may fill out the shopping list and either turn it in at the Alternative Giving table or mail it to the church at: 1301 Collingwood Rd, Alexandria, VA 22308. Please make checks out to Aldersgate UMC and indicate "Alternative Giving" on the memo line. If you have any questions or would like more information, please contact Julie Pfister . Epiphany Tree 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 January 6th every year and marks the end 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. Just as the Magi brought gifts to Jesus, we invite you to bring a gift for a baby, toddler, or new mother. You can place these donations (unwrapped) in the box under the Epiphany Tree in the Narthex (outside the sanctuary). We will collect baby and toddler gifts throughout Advent and Christmastide, all the way up to Epiphany Sunday. In January, we will donate the gifted items to Second Story for Young Mothers, a Transition Living Program in Northern Virginia that helps pregnant or parenting moms ages 16 to 24 attain safety, stability, and independence. Learn more about Second Story for Young Mothers at here . If you have any questions or would like more information, please contact Molly Johnson . Thank you for being a blessing to others less fortunate. Merry Christmas! Christmas Eve Services Christmas Eve & New Year's Eve Special Advent Events Advent Giving Christmas Eve Candlelight Services Sunday, December 24th 3pm | Contemporary Worship + Pop-Up Children's Pageant Candlelight Worship Service with Communion (nursery available for 3 & under) Pop-Up Children's Pageant open to all children in worship - no rehearsal required! 5pm | Contemporary Worship Candlelight Worship Service with Communion (nursery available for 3 & under) 7pm & 9pm | Traditional Worship Candleligh t Worship Service with Communion (no nursery available) Live stream will be available for 5pm & 7pm services (CLICK HERE ) Live nativity animals from 3:30pm - 7:00pm on the Front Lawn Come see Chewy the Camel!

Courageously living and sharing God's unconditional love every day, with everyone, everywhere. SUPPORT GROUPS Aldersgate United Methodist Church offers support groups to the congregation and to our community. Monthly Caregiver Support Group Aldersgate UMC offers a support group for those who are caregivers. The monthly Caregiver Support Group will meet on the SECOND Wednesday of every month at 5:00pm in the Library. For more information, please contact Judy Jurkowski, Wellness Coordinator & Director of Congregational Care ( judy@aldersgate.net ) . Monthly Grief Support Group Aldersgate UMC offers a support group for those who have experienced a loss and who are grieving. The monthly Grief Support Group will meet on the THIRD Wednesday of every month at 5:00pm in the Library. For more information, please contact Judy Jurkowski, Wellness Coordinator & Director of Congregational Care ( judy@aldersgate.net ) . Weekly Divorce Care Group Aldersgate UMC offers a weekly virtual support group for those who are going through or have gone through divorce. This group will foster healing from separation or divorce. Meetings consists of a discussion of the material (video and workbook) completed during the week. The DivorceCare videos cover topics essential to recovering from the hurt of separation or divorce. The group will meet weekly on Tuesday at 7pm starting September 19th. All meetings are virtual. Please visit the DivorceCare website for additional information on the program and to register to attend the group meetings hosted by Aldersgate UMC. Attendance at each session is not required for participation. There is a $20 fee that covers the cost of the workbook.

Courageously living and sharing God's unconditional love every day, with everyone, everywhere. SOCIAL JUSTICE "You shall love your neighbor as yourself." Mark 12:31 The United Methodist Church has a long history of advocating for social justice. During university, John & Charles Wesley and their Oxford 'Holy Club' visited the local prison and tutored neighborhood children. The early Methodists expressed their opposition to societal ills such as slavery, smuggling, inhumane prison conditions, alcohol abuse, and child labor. Today United Methodists work, march and pray for racial justice, environmental care, and fair treatment for everyone. Learn how we continue in ministries of justice today and find places where you can serve. "The United Methodist Church believes God's love for the world is an active and engaged love, a love seeking justice and liberty. We cannot just be observers. So we care enough about people's lives to risk interpreting God's love, to take a stand, to call each of us into a response, no matter how controversial or complex. The church helps us think and act out of a faith perspective, not just respond to all the other 'mind-makers-up' that exist in our society." Excerpt from The Book of Resolutions of The United Methodist Church 2020/2024. Copyright © 2024 by The United Methodist Publishing House. First adopted by the 1972 General Conference, the Social Principles document stands in the Wesleyan tradition of forthright moral witness and ethical action. The Social Principles articulate our ethical aspirations for the common good in our public policies and personal commitments. Through them, we seek to love God with our whole heart, mind, soul, and strength and to desire for our neighbors what we desire for ourselves. Social Principles of the United Methodist Church As Adopted by General Conference Charlotte, 2024 The Social Principles reflect the United Methodist response to today's most pressing social issues. UMC Social Principles Faith in Action: All Other Ground is Sinking Sand Justice Takes Courage, Edition 5 An article from Bishop Julius C. Trimble General Board of Church and Society | January 24, 2025 All Other Ground is Sinking Sand What Do We Mean by "Social Justice"? Learn what "social justice" means in the United Methodist Church and how we as a church participate in social justice. What do we mean by social justice? Dear President Trump: Letter from United Methodist Council of Bishops A letter to the Honorable President of the United States, Donald J. Trump, from the Council of Bishops of the United Methodist Church. Council of Bishops Letter to President Trump Bishop, Appointive Cabinet Share Pastoral Letter to Federal Workers A Pastoral Letter to Federal Workers Summarily Dismissed from their Jobs Pastoral Letter to Federal Employees "You shall love your neighbor as yourself." Mark 12:31 The Social Justice Team works towards living into our Strategic Priorities of Missional Outreach and Social Justice. To help educate, disciple, and model ways to transform for the better those people and causes we seek to serve locally, nationally, and internationally. Currently we partner with Woodlawn Faith UMC in worship and missional exchanges, as well as opportunities that you can find in our weekly newsletter (click the "Subscribe" button, below, to receive our weekly newsletter). We have a Social Justice section in our church library where you can check out books. We are offering tips for Creation Care in our weekly newsletter. Click on the tabs, below, to learn more about the different social justice focus areas at Aldersgate UMC. Learn more about the Social Principals of the United Methodist Church . The Social Justice Team comes together every 8-10 weeks to share what we are working on and plan for other ways to engage in our church and community. If you wish to know more, be part of a book and /or Bible study, or to actively participate in one of the above areas, please contact socialjustice@aldersgate.net . Woodlawn-Faith UMC Partnership Aldersgate UMC is currently partnering with Woodlawn-Faith UMC in worship and missional exchanges, as well as other events you can learn about here and under Upcoming Events . There are also opportunities to serve with Woodlawn-Faith UMC, such as Food Distribution on Fordson Road and to serve at the Community Gardens at the Grist Mill Park. Woodlawn-Faith UMC is an African-American congregation in our area. This partnership came out of our work on our Focus 2025 Strategic Priorities. We heard you as our congregation wanting to be more diverse in worship and in engaging with our community. Upcoming Partnership Events Woodlawn-Faith Food Distribution Friday, May 22nd | 8:30am - 12:00pm Where: St. John's Baptist Church (7730 Fordson Rd, Alexandria) St. John's Baptist Church (7730 Fordson Rd, Alexandria) Help pack food boxes for distribution to folks who come to collect food. Join Woodlawn-Faith UMC at St. John's Baptist Church on Fordson Road to pack food boxes for folks in our community to collect. No reservation or sign-up required! Drop by any time and stay for as long as you can! Students can earn community service hours. 1 1 ... 1 ... 1 Woodlawn-Faith Partnership Be the Bridge Book Club Creation Care Woodlawn-Faith UMC Partnership Aldersgate UMC is currently partnering with Woodlawn-Faith UMC in worship and missional exchanges, as well as other events you can learn about here and under Upcoming Events . There are also opportunities to serve with Woodlawn-Faith UMC, such as Food Distribution on Fordson Road and to serve at the Community Gardens at the Grist Mill Park. Woodlawn-Faith UMC is an African-American congregation in our area. This partnership came out of our work on our Focus 2025 Strategic Priorities. We heard you as our congregation wanting to be more diverse in worship and in engaging with our community. Upcoming Partnership Events Woodlawn-Faith Food Distribution Friday, May 22nd | 8:30am - 12:00pm Where: St. John's Baptist Church (7730 Fordson Rd, Alexandria) St. John's Baptist Church (7730 Fordson Rd, Alexandria) Help pack food boxes for distribution to folks who come to collect food. Join Woodlawn-Faith UMC at St. John's Baptist Church on Fordson Road to pack food boxes for folks in our community to collect. No reservation or sign-up required! Drop by any time and stay for as long as you can! Students can earn community service hours. 1 1 ... 1 ... 1

Upcoming events and activities at Aldersgate UMC UPCOMING EVENTS Anchor 1 Show All Events Show Featured Events Announcement Request Full Calendar Facility Use Request Filter Events by Ministry Area Select Ministry Area Clear Filter FEATURED EVENTS ALL EVENTS EVENT FILTER RESULTS 1 2 3 4 5 1 ... 1 2 3 4 5 ... 5 Breastfeeding Support Group Breastfeeding Support Group Safe space for moms to share, connect, and ask questions! Every 3rd Wednesday of the month | 9:30am - 10:30am Feel supported in this mothering journey together! Learn More Lunch Bunch Lunch Bunch Fellowship, Food, Fun, & Friendship! Local Alexandria area Reach out to Dave Malzahn for place. Learn More New Faith Book Study Group New Faith Book Study Group Faith Book Study - "Revival: Faith as Wesley Lived It" by Adam Hamilton Tuesdays beginning April 7th | 7:00pm-8:30pm Book Study with Dr. Rev. Keary Kincannon Learn More Ephesians: Belonging with Christ Bible Study Ephesians: Belonging with Christ Bible Study 6-Week Bible Study on Ephesians with Pastor Sherry! Beginning Thursday, April 16th - May 21st 12:15pm - 1:30pm Aldersgate UMC | Church Library Learn More Pre-orders for "Hope Grows" - Rising Hope Pre-orders for "Hope Grows" - Rising Hope LOCAL MISSIONS & OUTREACH Pick-up times beginning after May 10th. Support Rising Hope's "Hope Grows" Greenhouse Ministry Learn More 1 2 3 4 5 1 ... 1 2 3 4 5 ... 5 BACK TO TOP All Upcoming Events Filter by Featured Events Select Event Type Filter by Ministry Area Select Ministry Area Clear Filters Search Featured Events Results Found Clear Filter(s)

Courageously living and sharing God's unconditional love every day, with everyone, everywhere. YOUTH MINISTRY Supporting all youth in grades 6 through12 The Aldersgate Youth Ministry welcomes and embraces the youth of the Aldersgate UMC family and its community. All youth are welcome -- you don't have to be a Methodist or a member of Aldersgate to participate in your Youth Ministries. Youth Ministry at Aldersgate UMC includes Aldersgate Youth Group (grades 6-12) and the Confirmation Program (grades 6+). Both programs provide an opportunity for youth to have fun, build new relationships, perform service in the community and beyond, and grow in their faith in a supportive and encouraging environment. For more information, please contact us at youth@aldersgate.net . Your child’s safety is our priority. Learn about our policies and child protection procedures. Child & Youth Protection Policy Confirmation Youth Mission Week Youth Group Open House Youth Band Youth Group The Aldersgate Youth Group is a space for our young people to come together and kick off the week on a positive note. We focus on exploring our relationships with God, having fun, and occasionally engaging in service projects within the community and beyond. We invite you to grow in your faith in a supportive and encouraging environment. All youth are welcome—there’s no need to be a Methodist or a member of Aldersgate to join us! Who : Students in grades 6-12 Where : Youth Room (Room 102) When : Sundays from 5pm-6:30pm Confirmation Program The Confirmation Program at Aldersgate UMC is an opportunity for students to respond to the workings of God's grace in their lives. The goal of the Confirmation Program is for students to begin to understand for themselves what it means to be a Christian and a member of God's Church. Upon completion of the class, students will be given the opportunity to profess their faith and become church members. Confirmation is open to rising 7th grade and up students. It is taught by Cheryl Bratten and Molly Johnson. If you have questions, or would like more information, please contact us at confirmation@aldersgate.net The Confirmation Program at Aldersgate UMC is an opportunity for students to respond to the workings of God's grace in their lives. The goal of the Confirmation Program is for students to begin to understand for themselves what it means to be a Christian and a member of God's Church. Upon completion of the class, students will be given the opportunity to profess their faith and become church members. Important Dates September 14th: Information Meeting September 19th: Confirmation Kick off! Who : Open to all rising 7th graders and older When & Where : Class meets every Sunday evening between 4-5PM in Guback Center Confirmation Teacher: Cheryl Bratten & Molly Johnson Duration : Sept 14th- Feb 22nd, culminating in confirmation of the students on Feb 22, 2025 Cost : $120 per student to cover the cost of supplies, events, and our retreat (scholarships available) Register for Confirmation Program Important Documents to Download & Review 2025-2026 Confirmation Class Calendar Parental Consent Form Confirmation Program Requirements Aldersgate Youth Band The Aldersgate Youth Band is open to youth musicians. Our mission is to deepen our faith and worship experience through music. Do you play an instrument or sing in choir at school? We'd love to have you be a part of our music family! Who : Students in grades 7-12 Where : Church Sanctuary When : Sundays from 6:30 pm - 7:30pm (bi-weekly) For more information, please contact Andreas Barrett ( abarrett@aldersgate.net ), Co-Director of Student Ministries. Youth Open House The Youth Open House is a chance for teens to unwind after school, enjoy a snack, play games, and work on homework. Each week, we engage in a group activity to foster connections and strengthen our friendships. We emphasize respectful values and boundaries, and we’re thrilled to see so many non-members joining us as well! Please contact us if your child has any health concerns or allergies that we should be aware of. Who : Students in grades 7-12 Where : Youth Room (Room 102) When : Every Wednesday afternoon from 2:30pm - 4pm Youth Mission Week Youth Mission Week is a faith and community building event, created to foster a lifelong service mindset in the youth of our church and beyond. This five-day experience will strike a balance between faithfulness and fun, with field trips to amusement parks, outreach activities at nearby churches, and daily periods of worship. Who : Rising 7th - 12th Graders Where : TBD When : TBD Cost : TBD Registration is required. Please register by June 30th. CLICK HERE TO REGISTER If you have questions or would like more information, please contact Andreas Barrett (andreas@aldersgate.net ). Adult Volunteers - Get Involved! Come be a part of the faith formation and growth of our amazing teenagers! We are looking for adult volunteers who can help out with our Youth Ministry program. Opportunities to help include: • Provide food or come as a parent volunteer for Sunday Evening Youth Group • • Sign up for our church events and outings • If at any point you want to donate food or snacks, please contact Andreas and Bailey at youth@aldersgate.net . Signup for our weekly newsletter Contact us at youth@aldersgate.net Join our Facebook Group

Book Study with Dr. Rev. Keary Kincannon EVENT INFORMATION < Previous Event Back to Upcoming Events Back Next Event > New Faith Book Study Group Faith Book Study - "Revival: Faith as Wesley Lived It" by Adam Hamilton Tuesdays beginning April 7th | 7:00pm-8:30pm 1301 Collingwood Rd. Alexandria, VA 22308 Aldersgate UMC | Church Library Join Rev. Dr. Keary Kincannon for a 7 week study of Adam Hamilton's book "Revival: Faith As Wesley Lived It." Sign Up Here The study will follow the format of chapter review, video and discussion questions augmented by Rev. Kincannon's Doctor of Ministry studies on "John Wesley and the Poor." The class will begin on April 7th and run on Tuesday evenings until May 19th. It is sponsored by Aldersgate UMC & Ventures in Community. Class/Book Description 18th Century English society was polarized. The Enlightenment led people to believe they no longer needed God. The rich struggled with materialism and the poor with lack of necessities. Into this world a priest and Oxford professor started preaching a simple message that invited people into a passionate faith that would unite the head, the heart, and the hands. By the time of Wesley's death over 800,000 Methodists had been inspired to reach out to the needy by starting soup kitchens, food pantries, free clinics, free schools, clothing closets, prison ministries in a revival of faith that changed England and America. Wesley's Methodist movement is credited by historians as the reason England did not suffer a revolution in this turbulent time in European history. Today we find ourselves in a world much like Wesley's, where faith is faltering and the gap between rich and poor widens. What can we learn from Wesley that will revive our faith and bring healing to our nation? Join Rev. Dr. Keary Kincannon for a 7 week study of Adam Hamilton's book "Revival: Faith As Wesley Lived It." Sign Up Here The study will follow the format of chapter review, video and discussion questions augmented by Rev. Kincannon's Doctor of Ministry studies on "John Wesley and the Poor." The class will begin on April 7th and run on Tuesday evenings until May 19th. It is sponsored by Aldersgate UMC & Ventures in Community. Class/Book Description 18th Century English society was polarized. The Enlightenment led people to believe they no longer needed God. The rich struggled with materialism and the poor with lack of necessities. Into this world a priest and Oxford professor started preaching a simple message that invited people into a passionate faith that would unite the head, the heart, and the hands. By the time of Wesley's death over 800,000 Methodists had been inspired to reach out to the needy by starting soup kitchens, food pantries, free clinics, free schools, clothing closets, prison ministries in a revival of faith that changed England and America. Wesley's Methodist movement is credited by historians as the reason England did not suffer a revolution in this turbulent time in European history. Today we find ourselves in a world much like Wesley's, where faith is faltering and the gap between rich and poor widens. What can we learn from Wesley that will revive our faith and bring healing to our nation? < Previous Event Next Event >

EVENTS FOR CHILDREN & FAMILIES < Previous Event Back to Children's Ministries Page Next Event > Children's & Youth Ministry Bake Sale CHILDREN'S & YOUTH MINISTRY Sunday, May 31st | 11:00am During Fellowship Time 1301 Collingwood Rd. Alexandria, VA 22306 Join us after the combined 10:00 AM worship service on Sunday, May 31st for a Youth and Children’s Ministry–led bake sale! During fellowship time, you’ll find a variety of homemade treats available for purchase, with all proceeds supporting Youth Mission Week and Children's VBS. Gluten-free and nut-free options will also be available. Questions? Please reach out to Bailey Johnson or Ms. Jesse ! < Previous Event Next Event >