Our Story Unfolds
IMPACT REPORT 2023 Vienna Presbyterian Church
MESSAGE FROM PASTOR HOPE And this is Mary,” said a mother, that I didn’t know, to her young son as he looked at one of the nativity sets on display in the hallway during the Church Street Stroll “She would become the mother of Jesus, and God sent Jesus to the world to save all of us from our sins.” When the mother finished talking, the little boy said, “So, God sent Jesus for even me?” And the mother replied, “Yes! Even you!” THAT’S IT! Church, that’s exactly why we are here! The whole reason for our existence as a church is to tell the story of how God loved us so much that He gave us Jesus so that we could live lives free of guilt and shame and full of abundance! There were a million things happening the night of Church Street Stroll: popcorn, singing, storytelling, crafts, hot chocolate, etc.. It took countless volunteers of all ages, members pitching in at a moment’s notice, coming early, staying late to make all of that possible. Was it worth it? ABSOLUTELY! Because somewhere out in the greater NOVA area is a little boy who learned that God loves EVEN him! If nothing else happened that whole night, just watching the story get told and seeing a young child come to know the love of Christ made it all totally worth it! That’s how I feel about everything we do here at Vienna Presbyterian! Whether it’s through mission or adult discipleship or in worship or with youth or children or fellowship, we have an opportunity to tell the greatest story ever told – the story of the love of God in Christ Jesus! Sometimes we do that in big ways through things like Easter services or Rise Against Hunger. But most of the time, we tell the story in small, quiet ways as we pray with one another, meet people where they are in their faith journey and start walking together toward Jesus, or simply showing up when someone is in need. This report scratches the surface of the stories that made 2023. It is filled with joy, challenge, opportunity, and hope. As you read it, I urge you to consider all the ways that it tells the story of the love of God to so many, far and wide, near and dear. I’m so proud and humbled to be the pastor of a church that embraces refugees, holds space for those who struggle physically, mentally, and developmentally, that loves children and youth just as much as it does working adults and senior citizens, isn’t afraid to sing songs in Spanish and Korean, and so, so much more. But, most of all, I am delighted to pastor a congregation that continues to find faithfully creative ways to simply tell the one story that changes lives forever – the story of Jesus Christ, God’s love for us! I want to encourage you to find your place in this incredible story, here at VPC, in 2024! We give thanks for what God has done and we are boldly running into this new year with creative anticipation to see what God is going to do next! In the Grip of Grace,
Pastor Hope Lee
Mission A caring fellowship bringing Christ into our diverse community through discipleship and service
Values Living the Gospel Modeling Christ-like behavior in our day-to-day living Discipleship Sharing with others the life-changing and resurrecting power of Jesus Christ and helping them grow in their faith Scripture Deeping our relationship with God through the study of God’s Word and prayer Worship Glorifying God in spirit and in truth, both individually and corporately Fellowship Welcoming all people and engaging in community inside and outside the church
Attributes Christ-Centered Placing Christ at the center of every circumstance to seek understanding and grow in faith Prayerful Practicing daily communications with God Compassionate Showing Christ’s loving mercy and comfort to everyone Hopeful Trusting in God’s plan for us, believing in God’s Word, and relying on His promise Joyful Choosing joy in all things in response to what God has done for us Authentic Being open and transparent in our communications and actions
LIVING THE GOSPEL THROUGH WORSHIP AND ADULT DISCIPLESHIP
Over 100 adults, teens, and children volunteer with VPC’s worship bands, choirs, and musical ensembles. We are grateful for the many committed volunteers who serve to tune our hearts to God!
2023 was a transitional period in VPC’s worship department. We joyfully welcomed Pastor Robert as our Associate Pastor for Worship and Adult Discipleship. After 26 years of faithful music ministry at VPC, Lance Vining retired in the fall. Long-time music associate, Patrick Sobolick, stepped in to ensure a seamless transition until a permanent director is found. The youth choir bid farewell to Kristina Schenk, and Rachel Thompson assumed the role of interim director, The talented Amanda Wyand was later appointed as the new director. Pastor Robert worked closely with musicians, choir, and the audio-visual team in both services to improve sound quality and align music with the sermon texts and topics. A thorough review of our Sunday morning worship will take place in 2024. Kim Pattianakotta, the Life Group and Education Director, set the stage masterfully for the area of adult discipleship. Along with some guest teachers, Pastor Robert taught this Fall at Monday Night Men (special thanks to Rev. Dr. David Renwick for teaching numerous times last year). Kim led the women's studies while many others faithfully and effectively led Sunday morning classes, weekday groups, and more! The ministry is growing, with new small groups of various types forming after the Fall "CASKET EMPTY" conference at VPC. Part two (the New Testament) is scheduled for this Spring, and we hope many will join in this enriching study. Additionally, we are thrilled to welcome April Massey as the admin for the worship and discipleship area. Our staff is ready to go, and we are energized to serve you better. It is appropriate and good that worship and discipleship go hand in hand. Regular study and application of God's Word are required to grow in worship, while regular interaction with the community of faith through worship (and service) is required to develop as a disciple. If you need assistance plugging into a study or group, please contact Kim or Pastor Robert.
“The VPC church family made this feel like home from the start.” Pastor Robert Austell
CASKET EMPTY conference participants had a fun and interesting time engaging the biblical narrative with Dr. Carol Kaminski. 107 adults attended and deepened their understanding of how the Bible is one redemptive story with Jesus at the center!
THE JOYFUL WORLD OF VPC'S YOUTH MINISTRY
It was an exciting year of change and growth for VPCYouth! Celebrating achievements and community.
The Spring was full of celebrations for our congregation. Our youth led worship and shared their faith, culminating in Confirmation Sunday where we welcomed 25 new members. Throughout the season, our students participated in weekly faith-building activities, including Fueling Up sessions and Youth Group meetings. They also enjoyed a refreshing break from routine life during their Spring Retreat.
continental breakfast, played games, and discussed the themes from our worship services. It's been a great year of celebrating achievements and building community.
We welcomed our new Director of Youth Ministry, Vicki Sumner, and Stephanie Seckinger as our NextGen Administrative Assistant, who arrived just in time to jump in for end of school celebrations. We are grateful to Beth Webster and Michelle Rahal who shepherded us in the interim.
In October, we hosted a Lock-In, followed by Rise Against Hunger, where our youth prepared thousands of meal kits for those in need.
As summer approached, we hosted our annual GLO Party to welcome incoming middle school students. Our youth spent the season serving on YouthWorks High School Mission trips, volunteering with Vacation Bible School and Kids’ Camp, and making memories at conferences in Hilton Head, SC, and Ocoee, TN. Before returning to school, everyone caught up at a Meet & Greet at Rita's on Church Street. Our Sunday morning gatherings were transformed into Youth Morning Meetup, where youth enjoyed a
Sunday evening Youth Group continued to thrive. The group enjoyed dinner, recreation, worship, and breakout group discussions on a weekly basis.
Throughout the year, our youth volunteered in VPC Childcare and VPCKids on Sunday mornings, helped with Kids’ Day Off during school breaks, and participated in various in-house events, including Taste and See and Church Street Stroll. They also organized a Toy Drive, donating bins of toys to Santa's Ride through the Vienna Police Department. To cap off a fantastic 2023, we celebrated the birth of our Savior with a Christmas party. We're thrilled to have a church community of all ages dedicated to serving the community and advancing Christ's Kingdom.
FAITH-BUILDING AND GROWTH IN VPCKIDS’ MINISTRY In 2023, VPCKids experienced a significant growth with the inclusion of new families and friends into our community. We are thrilled that our Sunday School declaration, "You know me, love me and lead me... My life can tell of Your wonder," continues to inspire children to embrace God's love and carry it beyond Sunday mornings. Our activities, including games, stories, crafts, and small group discussions, are all designed to engage kids in God's big story in enjoyable and profound ways. Our dedicated leaders help build faith communities that foster spiritual growth. We are delighted to have launched our second year of Wonder Lab, where children can interact with God's great narrative through science, drama, and other activities. Our Bridges to Worship team continues to create a hands-on worship experience for our younger kids to encounter God. Our Kids’ Camp held in July was a resounding success, with 41 children learning about God's love and how to share it with others. Our monthly CLUB meeting for 4th and 5th graders provided children with a space to create connections and learn about Jesus through fun and games. It's a welcoming environment where kids can bring their friends to church and feel at home. In the music and arts segment of VPCKids, we had a spring musical and Music and Drama Camp, and our children's choirs sang at Sunday morning services and the Church Street Stroll. A huge thank you to Tara Fredericks, Christine and Kaitlyn McCarley for lending their musical talent and leadership to our kids’ choirs. We also opened our doors to families for fellowship and fun through movie night, game night, and Bricktastic Christmas.
Where faith meets fun
VPC CHILDCARE -THE MINISTRY THAT CARES FOR OUR LITTLE ONES In June, Childcare Ministry led a successful 3, 4, 5 Summer Camp for 45 preschoolers from VPC, VPC Preschool, Mothers of Preschoolers (MOPS) & Beyond, and the Vienna community. One of our summer interns, Jon, was a hit with his portrayal of Tac the Cat. The participants learned that God knows them, Jesus loves them, The Holy Spirit leads them, and they are children of God through Wonder Ink curriculum. Outside of Sunday mornings, Childcare Ministry has continued to support Tuesday Women’s Bible study and MOPS & Beyond offering care for infants to pre-K during these programs.
Our Playground Playdates initiative has also been a hit, providing families the opportunity to bond outside of Sunday mornings. This event has served as a way for new families to meet other families from our church. We continued to offer Moms Morning Meetup quarterly, giving moms an opportunity to step out of the house on a Saturday morning to enjoy coffee and fellowship with other VPC moms.
VPC PRESCHOOL - WHERE LITTLE ONES LEARN BIG THINGS! Welcoming children aged 2.5 to 5 years old, VPC Preschool has been a weekday ministry for over three decades. In 2023, Claire McCracken joined our dynamic team as the Director of Preschool. We provide a welcoming quality early childhood environment, rooted in the joy of Jesus, and are dedicated to serving all families. Preschool is an introduction to play-based learning, a time for cultivating friendships, and a time where independence and self-awareness blossoms. By maintaining our balanced, emergent and developmentally appropriate focus on the spiritual, social, cognitive, physical and emotional needs of the young child, all children grow and thrive in every area. In our little corner of the world we share faith in action every day. We enjoy being able to touch so many lives in this meaningful and powerful way.
CELEBRATING THE GROWTH OF CARE MINISTRIES God has blessed us with numerous opportunities to care for one another through a variety of ministries. In 2023, our team experienced growth in ongoing ministries, as well as the introduction of new ones! We also welcomed Lara Ferreira as our new Congregational Care and Fellowship Administrative Assistant. Deacons Ministry Our devoted Deacons – 30 strong – served our church family in thousands of instances through various initiatives, including summer breakfasts, Sunday morning coffee, meals to members, Neighbor to Neighbor repairs and assistance, card ministry, memorial service reception ministry, cookie deliveries, financial assistance, and intentional outreach to widows and widowers. GriefShare Ministry Our GriefShare ministry expanded, offering virtual and in-person sessions to individuals navigating the mourning and grieving of loved ones. Dementia Care Ministry Our new Dementia Care Ministry reached out monthly to those diagnosed with the condition, as well as those who care for and love them. Divorce Care Ministry Our Divorce Care Ministry provided a place of hope for men and women grappling with the heartache of divorce. Mental Health Ministry Our new Mental Health Ministry held three 8-week sessions, focused on providing support, education, and community to those caring for loved ones struggling with mental health challenges. 60s+ Monthly Gatherings Our 60s+ monthly gatherings experienced growth in attendance, fellowship and programs, including two bus trips to PA's Sight and Sound Theater. Stephen Ministers Lastly, we trained and commissioned 18 new Stephen Ministers. Our 30 active women and men quietly, confidentially, and winsomely meet weekly with many, coming alongside them with hope and the healing of Christ. All of these ministries are led by devoted members of our congregation, and we are grateful to God for each of them! To learn more about these ministries, contact Pastor Connie Jordan-Haas or Pastor Charles Geschiere.
Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ. Galatians 6:2
VPC MISSIONS SERVING WITH CHRIST-CENTERED COMPASSION In 2023,the Mission's ministry introduced new opportunities to serve and worship. Thank you to the countless volunteers who served! Here is a snapshot of the year: Bags of Love, now in year three, continues to provide food and household items each month for families in our community. Hypothermia Prevention Program housed and fed 50 unhoused brothers and sisters in Christ for two weeks in February. 65 guests and their parents/care givers attended our first Be Our Guest prom for those with developmental difference. Not only was this a memorable night for our guests and parents, but volunteers and VPC staff equally enjoyed the evening. At the World Vision 6K Walk for Water, Team Vienna provided clean water (for life) for more than 1,500 people! We sent a VPC team on an eye-opening trip to the Beth-El Migrant Farm in Wimauma, Florida where we served a huge migrant farm worker population and their children. More than 125 volunteers gathered in October to pack 30,000 meals for global relief organization Rise Against Hunger. We had the opportunity to thank veterans and active duty personnel at the first annual Veterans and Military Personnel Appreciation Lunch. We specifically honored those who served in the Korean Conflict, but all who served and sacrificed for our country enjoyed the special day.
UNITING COMMUNITY THROUGH FELLOWSHIP AND FUN VPC is a congregation that prides itself on fostering a loving and inclusive environment for the diverse community it serves. In April, we welcomed our new Congregational Engagement Manager, Stacilynne Smith to organize events that aim to bring people together and spread the love of Christ throughout our community. This Easter, we held a community-wide Easter Egg hunt on the Town Green which was attended by people of all ages. We gave out more than 5000 filled Easter eggs, creating a vibrant and joyful atmosphere.
In August, we hosted our annual Open House event, 'Taste and See,' which showcased every ministry at VPC. The event provided an opportunity for both newcomers and regular attendees to learn about the offerings of VPC. We opened all four floors of our church to the community, welcoming everyone with open arms.
In October, we organized 'Trunk-or-Treat,' where we illuminated the Spirit of God and provided an entertaining experience to over 1200 people in our parking lot. The event featured music, games, activities, and food trucks. Tons of candy was handed out from spectacularly decorated cars with themes ranging from Tacky Tourist to Jaws.
To begin the Advent season, we participated in the Town of Vienna's Church Street Stroll, welcoming our community and neighbors with crafts, music, entertainment, and a hot chocolate bar with warm cookies. VPC provided "a loving and faith-filled welcome to our community and neighbors!" The event was a huge success, leaving a lasting impression on all who attended.
2023 FINANCIAL RECAP 2023 was an extraordinary year in ministry at VPC! And because of God’s grace and our congregation’s joyful giving, not only were we able to fully fund that ministry, but we also ended the year with a surplus! We exceeded our $4 million giving goal by $292,976, putting VPC in a strong financial position with great momentum for what God has planned for us in 2024 and beyond! We are excited for what lies ahead and we are so grateful for your ongoing support. Thank you for choosing to live a life of overflowing generosity so that God’s Kingdom may continue to thrive at VPC. To ensure transparency and financial accountability, VPC is required to engage an independent public accountant or committee of members versed in accounting procedures to conduct an annual audit, financial review or Agreed Upon Procedures of all VPC’s financial statements and financial processes. Since a full audit was conducted in 2022 by Aprio, LLC, an independent accounting firm on the church’s 2021 financials, VPC’s Audit Committee opted in 2023 to engage Aprio for Agreed Upon Procedures on the church’s accounting records for the year ended December 31, 2022. Aprio’s report reflects good management of our accounting and financial management practices, and the funds entrusted to the church. On behalf of our congregation, Session and the Audit Committee congratulate our management team for these sound results.
2024 UNIFIED SPENDING PLAN - $4,303,242 Facility Management $716,605
Per Capita Worship/Adult Discipleship $95,500 $717,504
Executive Leadership $300,648
Ministry Oversight and Support $822,784
Congregational Care/Fellowship $484,386
Outreach-Missions/Next Gen $1,165,815
Complete financial reports and detailed budget information are always available to members. Contact Nina Graves at nina.graves@viennapres.org or 703.938.9050 ext. 133, or Kellie Owens at kellie.owens@viennapres.org or 703.938.9050 ext. 121 for information. For questions about your giving, contact our new Generosity Manager, Kate Jones at kate.jones@viennapres.org. The 2024 per capita fee is $48.56 per member
GAINING MOMENTUM FOR MINISTRY IN 2024
Vienna Presbyterian Church | 124 Park Street, NE, Vienna, VA 22180 | www.viennapres.org | 703.938.9050