Community and Missions
Community
Reconciling Ministries
We stand in faith-based opposition to the institutionalized homophobia braided into the fabric of the United Methodist Church.
We work to advance justice for, and the radical inclusion and full participation of, all LGBTQ+ people in the UMC and beyond.
United Women in Faith
We usually meet on the second Thursday of the month at 10:00am for morning meetings. We may have hybrid meetings where some can join in-person at church in the Benedict Hall parlor, with others joining in via Zoom. *The United Methodist Women are now known as the United Women in Faith: https://uwfaith.org/
United Methodist Men
UM Men exists to declare the centrality of Christ in every man’s life. Men’s ministry leads to the spiritual growth of men and effective discipleship. This purpose is served as men are called to model the servant.
Music Ministries
At Fairwood Community UMC we have serveral musical opptunities available. From our Chancel Choir, Praise Team, Signs for Glory and even Joy Singers there is a place for you.
Missions
At Fairwood Community UMC we serve others through our gifts and skills. From providing donations to local food banks, school backpack drives, fundraising walks, to helping rebuild houses after a wildfire we connect with our community.
Greening
Join our team to help keep our nature loving grounds looking nice. We have a rain garden to help filter runoff, a chapel forest to help provide shade and Children’s Creation Care Sundays.
Children's Ministries
Newborns through the 5th grade
- Our children’ are welcomed and encouraged to participate in worship. We have a prayground in the back right of the Narthex by the office with quiet activities, coloring, building, and puzzles. Children are encouraged to sing, pray, and stand with the congregation. Our hope is that they begin learning what worship means, while keeping them busy if needed.
- About 15 minutes into worship children and parents are invited to come to the front of the sanctuary for a special Children’s message. This time is typically about 5 minutes long and allows the Children to engage in worship on their level of understanding.
Opportunities for Children to Serve:
- Acolytes (3rd-6th grade): Acolytes have the special responsibility of “bringing the light and love of Christ” into the sanctuary.
- Joyful Hearts Preschool
Joyful Hearts Preschool, as a ministry of Fairwood United Methodist Church, believes in providing a quality preschool program, built on the principles of God’s love, for all children in the community. Joyful Hearts believes in caring for the whole child and creating a nurturing environment that celebrates each child as a unique individual. Joyful Hearts believes in open doors and accepts all families with children between the ages of 3-5. For additional information, please contact our Preschool Director, Farah Cash.
Youth Ministry
Fairwood United Methodist Church offers several ways for youth to learn and share their talent, skills, and interests with the rest of the church community. To learn more, contact us at youthandchildren@fairwoodumc.org .
- Illumin8 | Sunday mornings at 10:00 AM
Sunday School style class featuring engaging videos, games, and conversation focused on learning about the Bible, its people, cultures, and the United Methodist denomination. - Youth Group | Sunday afternoons at 4:00 PM
Fellowship focused activities and events that give youth a chance to put their faith into action! Youth group begins at 4:00 PM with a light meal (Simple Supper). - Youth Choir | Sunday afternoons after church
Email bill.mcewen@comcast.net for more information. - Confirmation | Coming Spring of 2025
United Methodists use the term “confirmation” to mark the first time a baptized Christian publicly confirms their intention to live a life that rejects wrong-doing, injustice, and oppression, accepting the grace offered by God and extending that grace to all. Classes are typically offered every two years to youth in grades six to eight. - Missions | FCUMC Youth are partnering with the Sierra Service Project for summer 2025. More information will be available mid-fall 2024. Contact youthandchildren@fairwoodumc.
org for more information - Scouting | FCUMC hosts two active Scouts BSA troops, 455 and 8455 from the Green River District of the Chief Seattle Council. For more information, visit the troop website.
Missions
Community Assistance Program
Fairwood United Methodist Church can, at times, offer financial assistance through the Pastor’s Fund Community Assistance Program. Two types of assistance are potentially available:
Small-scale assistance: transportation, gas, meals, work-related gear (e.g. work shoes or uniform)
Emergency assistance: utility assistance, rental help, medical bills,other emergency cases, applicants need to make an appointment with the Assistance Program Team for assessment.
To request emergency assistance please provide the following:
Small Scale
– Form and copy of Picture ID or Driver’s License
Emergency Assistance
-Utility bills, disconnection notice, medical bills, or other documents that demonstrates one’s need.
– Form and copy of Picture ID or Driver’s License
– Picture ID or driver’s license
Policies:
- -Applicants reside in Renton or Kent Only
- -Applicants can only receive help once every 6 months for a maximum of 3 times in two years.
- -Applicants are not permitted to solicit directly to church members.
- -For small-scale assistance, applicants can receive gift cards.
- -Checks are issued and mailed to designated landlord, store, clinic, and not the applicant.
- Frequent requests are submet to the discretion of CAP Team.
- Applicants are required to undergo an interview.
RECOMMENDED RESOURCE: 211
Call 211 or visit their website, wa211.org 211 is a free community resource that connects you to the local services you need, from utility assistance, food, housing, health, child care, after school programs, elder care, crisis intervention, and much more.