Get Involved - Make a Difference
Looking for a way to connect, serve, and grow? Our church is supporting several meaningful projects that need willing hands and open hearts—just like yours! Whether you’re brand new here or have been around for years, there’s a place for you to jump in and make a real impact. From local outreach to helping behind the scenes, every role matters.
Volunteering is a great way to meet new people, use your gifts, and be part of something bigger. We’d love to have you join us—come be the light in someone’s life this month!
Grace Ministries
When: Saturday, November 22, 6:30-9:00 am
Description: Grace Ministries provides fresh and non-perishable food, diapers and wipes, and clothing to guests in need. On Saturday morning, we set up and distribute all items outdoors using a curbside method and offer an outdoor market for clothing and household goods.
We are excited to have new volunteers each month who learn about the Capital Area Food Bank, Panera Bread, and the generosity of our church members and friends. We are also thrilled to be able to support our area students with service hours.
Sunday Service Projects
When: Sunday, November 23, 10:00 am
Description: Join us between services in the Welcome Center. We’ll be decorating ornaments to kick off the Grace Ministries toy drive. Let’s ensure that every kid finds a special present under the tree this Christmas!
No signups for advance registration required. All ages are welcome!
Hanging of the Greens
When: Sunday, November 23, 1:30-3:30 pm
Description: Let’s get in the holiday spirit together! St. Stephen’s will decorate the church for the Advent season. Both indoor and outdoor decorations will be put up, and all are welcome to join in this fun and festive activity. Youth are especially welcome. No signup needed!
Contribute to Youth Group Friendsgiving
When: Drop off food on Sunday, November 23, 5-5:30 pm
Contact Person: Liam Lassiter (nextgen@ststephensfairfax.org)
Description: SSUMC Youth Group’s annual ‘Friendsgiving’ meal is November 23rd. Sign-up to bring a main, side or dessert for a celebration of friendship and gratitude! Please drop your dish off in the large kitchen.
First Fridays/Green Groceries
When: The first Friday of each month – December 5
Description: Green Groceries is a monthly distribution of fresh vegetables on the First Friday of each month. First Friday/Green Groceries is a joint ministry of Messiah UMC and St. Stephen’s UMC and a proud partner of the Capital Area Food Bank.
Vegetables are sorted, bagged and distributed curbside to guests in need. Volunteers are asked to come at 4pm to help set up and prepare vegetables and distribution starts at 5pm.
Provide Gifts for 3 Families
When: All gifts must be purchased by December 16 so that we can wrap them together!
Description: Our church supports 3 families enrolled in the Homestretch program, which helps families avoid homelessness and provides important tools to gain self-sufficiency. Let’s purchase Christmas gifts the families to show our love and support for them!
Help the Tech Team
When: Sunday services at 9 and/or 11 am
Description: We’ll train you to help create smooth, impactful services and events! Learn to operate the camera and soundboard. Stop by the sound booth on Sunday morning or fill out the connect card to request more information.
Assist the Communion at Home Team
When: December 7 and January 4
Description: The Communion at Home team serves communion to congregants who are not able to attend church in person. This ministry is deeply meaningful our Senior Saints in particular. The lead, Ruth Porter, would welcome assistance.
Carolyn Brewer arranges flowers for the homebound members of our congregation. She would also like help in continuing her beautiful ministry efforts.
Please let the front office know if you would like to participate.
Join the Creative Hearts and Hands Team
When: Meetings are the first Thursday of each month in the parlor, 2-4 pm
Description: Create prayer shawls and other knitted/crocheted items to support members of our church and friends far away. The group just sent hats, scarves, and shawls to the congregants of the United Methodist Church in Kiev, Ukraine! All are welcome; no experience necessary.
Play the Drums!
When: Rehearsals are 7 pm Tuesdays and warm up is at 8 am Sunday service before the 9 am service.
Contact: music@ststephensfairfax.org
Description: The Source Band, which provides music for our 9 am contemporary service and special events, is in need of an experienced drummer.
Help Staff the Front Office
When: Shifts available 9:30-5:00 Monday-Friday
Description: Martha James, our office manager, needs help staffing the front office. If you can donate some time to answer the phone and the front door, you’ll enable Martha to participate in staff meetings and tackle special projects.