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Dying for Chocolate

Dying for Chocolate

Lunch, Mystery & Mayhem

Can you solve the case?

Enjoy lunch and an afternoon of intrigue, interactive fun, and delicious mystery! You’ll have the chance to put your detective skills to work as you follow clues, uncover secrets, and help solve a murder mystery.

Come Hungry. Leave Curious.

This is more than lunch. It’s an interactive mystery where you become part of the investigation.

Gather your friends and get ready to:

  • Follow the clues as the mystery unfolds
  • Put your detective skills to the test
  • Question the suspects and uncover hidden secrets
  • Enjoy a delicious lunch while you investigate
  • Get in on the action and help crack the case

You never know what clue might change everything or who might have something to hide. Keep your eyes open, compare notes, and see if you can piece together the evidence before the mystery is solved.

Can You Crack the Case?

Whether you’re a mystery enthusiast, a fan of interactive experiences, or simply looking for a fun afternoon with friends, this is an experience you won’t want to miss.

Come for the lunch. Stay for the mystery.

Ready to Investigate?

Register now and reserve your place for an afternoon of food, fun, clues, and plenty of intrigue.

Register for the Murder Mystery Event →

Registration is required.

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Reclaiming the Heart of Methodism

Reclaiming the Heart of Methodism

What does it mean to live out the heart of Methodism in the 21st century?

Join us on Sunday, October 4, between services in the Fellowship Hall (FH) for a video presentation featuring Ashley Boggan, author of Wesleyan Vitality: Reclaiming the Heart of Methodist Identity. This presentation invites us to look back at the roots of the Methodist movement and consider what John Wesley’s faith, ministry, and response to the Holy Spirit might have to say to us today.

No registration is needed for the October 4 video presentation. Simply stay afterthe 9am service or attend before the 11 am service and join the congregation for this opportunity to learn, reflect, and explore the Methodist tradition together.

Go Deeper Through the Book Study

The conversation will continue beginning Monday, October 12, with a six-week book study led by Meredith Vines-Hall and Ted Pauls.

Together, we’ll explore Wesleyan Vitality: Reclaiming the Heart of Methodist Identity and consider what it means to engage our Wesleyan heritage in a 21st-century world.

The book takes us back to the beginning of the Methodist movement and to John Wesley’s call by the Holy Spirit. Through Wesley’s story and the foundations of the Methodist tradition, we’ll have an opportunity to reflect on our own faith journeys and ask how these ideas can shape the way we live, worship, serve, and follow Christ today.

From Wesley’s Story to Our Own

This study is an invitation to do more than learn about Methodist history. It is an opportunity to consider how the heart of the Wesleyan tradition continues to speak to our lives and our community of faith.

Over six weeks, we’ll read, discuss, ask questions, and explore what it might look like to reclaim the vitality at the heart of our Methodist identity.

Come for the video presentation, and participate in the six-week book study. the conversation.

Watch. Read. Explore. Discuss.

Video Presentation
Sunday, October 4
Fellowship Hall, after the 9am service and before the 11 am service. (10-11am)

Six-Week Book Study
Beginning Monday, October 12, 7PM – 8:30PM
Led by Meredith Vines-Hall and Ted Pauls
Wesleyan Vitality: Reclaiming the Heart of Methodist Identity by Ashley Boggan
Register Here >

The book can be purchased at any major book store.

Purchase Book Here>

Ready to continue the conversation? Register for the six-week book study and join Meredith and Ted as we explore Wesley’s story, our Wesleyan heritage, and what it means to live our faith in the world today.

Register for the Book Study

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Financial Planning for Young Adults

Your Money, Your Future

Smart Financial Decisions for Your 20s & 30s

Your 20s and 30s are full of big decisions. Where you live. What kind of career you pursue. Whether you buy a home, pay off debt, start investing, build a family, or simply figure out how to feel more confident about your money.

With so many financial decisions competing for your attention, it can be hard to know where to start.

Join Kelly McNerney for a practical conversation designed specifically for young adults who want to make thoughtful financial decisions today while keeping their long-term goals in sight.

We’ll Talk About the Money Questions That Matter

This session will help you take a closer look at the financial choices you’re making now and how they can shape your future.

Together, we’ll explore topics such as:

  • Building a strong financial foundation without feeling overwhelmed
  • Creating a realistic budget that works with your actual life
  • Managing debt while still making progress toward other goals
  • Saving for the future and understanding where your money can go
  • Making informed financial decisions as your income, priorities, and responsibilities change
  • Planning for long-term goals while navigating the needs and expenses of today
  • Avoiding common financial pitfalls that can make it harder to build financial stability

You Don’t Have to Have It All Figured Out

Whether you’re just starting your career, paying off student loans, navigating a growing income, thinking about buying a home, or simply wondering if you’re doing enough for your future, this conversation is for you.

You don’t need to be a financial expert. You don’t need to have a perfect budget. And you don’t need to have your entire financial future mapped out.

You just need to be willing to take the next step.

Start Where You Are. Build Toward Where You’re Going.

The financial decisions you make in your 20s and 30s can help create a foundation for the years ahead. This session is an opportunity to pause, ask questions, learn practical strategies, and leave with a clearer sense of how your everyday choices can support the life you want to build.

Come ready to learn, reflect, and take action.

Join Us

Financial Wellness for Young Adults with Kelly McNerney

Date: November 8, 2026
Time: 1:00PM – 3:00PM
Location: Floris UMC
Registration: Coming Soon!

Your future is worth planning for. Let’s talk about how to get there.

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Lead with Love: Day of Empowerment and Impact

Lead with Love: Day of Empowerment and Impact

Friday, October 16–Saturday, October 17

What if, instead of waking up overwhelmed by the state of the world, we woke up knowing we are part of the solution?

Every day, we’re surrounded by messages that can leave us feeling like the sky is falling. The news, social media, and the challenges facing our communities can make the world feel unrecognizable—and leave us wondering how we’re supposed to keep going as if everything is normal.

But what if we didn’t?

What if we chose to wake up, look clearly at the justice issues affecting our community, and decide that we will be part of creating something better?

You might be asking yourself, What can I do? I’m just one person. I can’t change anything.

But what if you could?

What if we locked arms, stood together, and said, “No more.”

There are people all around us using their voices, talents, passions, and experiences to make a difference. They are creating change every day—and you have the opportunity to join them.

Lead with Love: Day of Empowerment and Impact is an invitation to step out of overwhelm and into action.

Spend the day learning more about the justice issues affecting our community, connecting with people who are already making an impact, discovering ways to use your own gifts for good, and finding your place in something bigger than yourself.

Because meaningful change doesn’t happen when one person does everything.

It happens when we come together.

When we learn.

When we listen.

When we stand up.

When we use our voices.

When we lead with love.

Registration opens September 9.

Register for Lead with Love →

Friday, October 16

An Immersive Experience on Poverty & Financial Hardship
6:00–8:30 p.m.

Begin the Lead with Love weekend with an immersive experience sponsored by Helping Children Worldwide.

Participants will step into a simulated experience that highlights the difficult choices, unexpected challenges, and barriers that can shape everyday life for people living with limited financial resources.

Rather than simply talking about poverty, this interactive experience is designed to deepen understanding, build empathy, and encourage participants to think differently about poverty and the systems that affect people’s lives.

Participation is limited to 29 participants, so preregistration is required. Dinner is included.

Register for the Immersive Experience →

Saturday, October 17

Lead with Love: A Day of Empowerment and Impact

Saturday brings the community together for a full day of learning, conversation, connection, and action.

You’ll have opportunities to explore justice issues affecting our local community and the wider world, hear from people doing meaningful work, participate in conversations about what change can look like, and discover practical ways to put your values into action.

Whether you’re already involved in advocacy and community work or you’re simply wondering where to begin, there is a place for you.

Saturday Schedule

8:30–9:00 a.m. — Check-In and Light Breakfast

Arrive, connect with fellow participants, and enjoy a light breakfast before the day begins.

9:00–10:45 a.m. — Plenary Session

Opening Message – Dr. Veronice Miles, WTS

Begin the day with an opening sermon centered on justice, courage, compassion, and our call to make a difference.

The Local Impact of Data Centers – Julie Bolthouse

Explore the local impact of data centers and learn more about the issues and questions surrounding their presence in our community.

11:00–11:45 a.m. — Breakout Session 1

Continue the conversation with another opportunity to explore a justice issue or practical action.

12:00–1:00 p.m. — Lunch & Learn / Breakout Session 2

Enjoy lunch while continuing to learn and engage through another breakout session.

1:15–2:00 p.m. — Breakout Session 3

Choose from a variety of sessions designed to help you learn, reflect, and explore ways to make an impact.

2:00–3:00 p.m. — Make an Impact: Panel Discussion with Local Community Leaders

Hear from local leaders who are already working to create positive change. Learn from their experiences, ask questions, and discover ways you can become more involved in your own community.

3:00–3:30 p.m. — Closing

Close the day with a special performance by Voices of Justice.

Explore Your Passion. Find Your Action.

Saturday’s breakout sessions offer a chance to go deeper into the issues that matter to you. From global poverty and immigration to environmental action, disability justice, peacemaking, civic engagement, and personal well-being, there are many ways to learn and get involved.

Breakout sessions are subject to change. Preregister to secure your spot.

Impacts of Removal of USAID on Global Poverty

Helping Children Worldwide (HCW)

Explore the potential impact of the removal of USAID on global poverty and the communities around the world that rely on international assistance.

Justice for Adults with Disabilities

Lauren Soljanyk and Debi Alexander — SPARC

Learn more about justice and advocacy for adults with disabilities and consider how communities can become more inclusive and supportive.

Stories from an Afghan Refugee

Afghan Refugee Relief Organization (ARRO)

Hear the story and perspective of an Afghan refugee and gain a deeper understanding of the experiences of people navigating displacement, resettlement, and building new lives.

Greening Your Home

Floris EJ/S Team

Discover practical ways to make your home more environmentally friendly and explore how everyday choices can contribute to caring for our shared planet.

Get Out the Vote: Postcard Writing Party

Kelly Motz and Connie Giovanni

Put advocacy into action by joining a postcard-writing party focused on encouraging voter participation and civic engagement.

Immigration: What Is Really Happening in Our Community?

Floris IJ Team

Go beyond the headlines and explore what immigration looks like in our community. Learn more about the experiences and realities affecting immigrants and their families.

Songwriting for Justice

Eddie Dickerson

Explore the power of music and songwriting as tools for storytelling, expression, advocacy, and justice.

How to Be a Better Ally

Rev. Lan Wilson

Explore what meaningful allyship looks like and consider practical ways to support others with greater awareness, understanding, and intention.

Taking Care of You While Taking Care of Others

Kelly Johnson, MSW

Caring for others and working toward change can be rewarding, but it can also be exhausting. Explore ways to care for yourself while continuing to care for others and the causes you value.

Making Good Trouble: Nonviolent Direct Action

Cayce Utley

Learn more about nonviolent direct action and how people can use peaceful resistance, organizing, and advocacy to create meaningful change.

How to Start Social Justice Groups in Your Community

Cynthia and Megan

Have an issue you care deeply about? Learn how to bring people together, build community, and begin creating a social justice group of your own.

Register for Lead with Love →

Connect With Community Partners

Throughout the day, visit community tables and connect with organizations already doing important work in our community and beyond.

Community partners include:

  • Helping Children Worldwide (HCW)
  • League of Women Voters
  • Afghan Refugee Relief Organization (ARRO)
  • SPARC
  • She Believes in Me
  • Just Neighbors

Take time to meet representatives, ask questions, learn about their work, and discover opportunities to get involved.

You don’t have to do everything. You just have to find a place where you can begin.

Help Make Lead with Love Happen

Want to do more than attend? Volunteer at Lead with Love and help create a welcoming, meaningful experience for everyone who joins us.

Volunteers are an important part of making the weekend possible. Whether you can help with setup, registration, hospitality, meals, sessions, or other event needs, there are opportunities to lend your time and talents.

You don’t have to have special experience or know exactly where you fit. Choose a volunteer opportunity that works for you and be part of making Lead with Love a day of connection, learning, and action.

Volunteer at Lead with Love →

Already registered? You can still sign up to volunteer. We’d love to have you be part of the team!

Registration Information

Registration opens September 9.

Your registration gives you the opportunity to participate in this weekend of learning, connection, and action.

Saturday Lunch

Lunch is $10. Financial assistance is available for those who need it.

Childcare

Childcare is available for $5. Children must be registered at least 48 hours in advance.

Optional Donations

Optional donations can be made after registration and at the event to help support this work and the organizations involved.

Breakout Sessions

Breakout sessions are subject to change, and some sessions may have limited space. Preregister to secure your spot in the sessions you want to attend.

Register for Lead with Love →

You Are Not Powerless. You Are Part of the Solution.

It can be easy to look at the challenges around us and think, What difference could one person possibly make?

But change doesn’t require one person to do everything.

It starts with people who are willing to learn.

It grows when we listen to one another.

It becomes stronger when we connect.

And it moves forward when we decide to act.

You are not powerless. You are part of the solution.

Come spend the day discovering what’s possible when we choose courage over complacency, connection over isolation, and love over fear.

Come learn about the issues affecting our neighbors.

Meet people who are already making a difference.

Discover organizations doing meaningful work.

Find practical ways to use your own gifts, experiences, talents, and voice for good.

And discover your place in something bigger than yourself.

Because meaningful change happens when we come together.

When we learn.

When we listen.

When we stand up.

When we use our voices.

When we lead with love.

Together, we can make an impact for good.

Register for Lead with Love →

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Art Gallery: Animalia by Holly Cole

Animalia: An Art Exhibition by Holly Cole

Step into a world where the wild comes to life through art.

Floris is pleased to welcome artist Holly Cole and her captivating exhibition, Animalia. This unique collection invites viewers to explore the beauty, personality, and imagination of the animal world through a variety of artistic forms.

From majestic wildlife to whimsical creatures, Holly’s work brings animals to the forefront in unexpected and engaging ways. The exhibition features richly detailed paintings alongside dimensional, handcrafted animal sculptures, creating a gallery experience that is both visually striking and full of character.

As you move through the exhibit, you’ll encounter familiar animals portrayed in imaginative ways—from elephants and deer to bears, birds, moose, and other creatures. Holly’s artwork captures both the recognizable qualities of each animal and the sense of wonder they inspire. Her use of color, texture, layering, and expressive details gives each piece its own personality and invites you to pause and take a closer look.

Animalia is more than a collection of animal artwork. It is an opportunity to slow down, appreciate the natural world, and experience the creativity that comes from seeing familiar subjects through an artist’s eyes.

Whether you’re an art enthusiast, an animal lover, or simply looking for something new to explore, Animalia offers something to discover. Take your time wandering through the exhibition and see which pieces catch your eye, spark your imagination, or simply make you smile.

Come experience Animalia by Holly Cole and discover the wild, whimsical, and wonderful creatures waiting to be found throughout the gallery.

Explore the Floris Art Gallery to learn more about Animalia, Holly Cole, and the artists who have been featured in the gallery.

Visit the Floris Art Gallery →

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Floris Fun Night: Holy Ghost Night

Floris Fun Nights: Holy Ghost Night

Food. Fellowship. Fun. And a little spooky-season spirit!

Get ready for another Floris Fun Night—a multigenerational evening where everyone is invited to come together, enjoy a great meal, connect with friends, and have some fun!

This time, we’re exploring the spooky season with a fun and thought-provoking conversation about Holy Ghost Night. What do we mean when we talk about the Holy Ghost, and what does the Holy Ghost have to do with our everyday lives and faith? Come curious, bring your questions, and join us for a conversation that’s sure to give us something to think about.

Of course, no Floris Fun Night would be complete without food! We’ll enjoy a themed dinner together, with plenty of time for laughter, conversation, and fellowship around the table. Whether you’re coming with family, friends, a small group, or simply looking for a fun way to connect with others at Floris, there’s a place for you.

And the fun doesn’t stop at dinner! We’ll have ghostly-themed activities for all ages, so everyone can join in the festivities. From kids to adults, come ready to enjoy a night filled with good food, great company, and plenty of fun.

Gather your family and friends and join us for this spooktacular evening of food, fellowship, faith, and fun!

Be sure to register!
Register for Floris Fun Nights: Holy Ghost Night →

We can’t wait to see you there!

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Bible 101

Bible 101

Get to Know the Bible

The Bible is central to the Christian faith, but knowing where to begin can sometimes feel overwhelming. How is the Bible organized? Who wrote it? How do all the different books, stories, and people fit together? And how can we better understand what we’re reading?

Bible 101 offers an approachable introduction to the Bible and the story it tells. Led by Bill Gray, this four-week series will help you become more familiar with Scripture, explore its major themes and stories, and discover ways to engage with the Bible more confidently.

Explore the Big Picture

Rather than simply reading individual passages, Bible 101 gives you an opportunity to step back and see how the pieces fit together. We’ll explore the Bible’s overarching story while becoming more familiar with the people, events, themes, and books that make up Scripture.

Together, we’ll explore:

  • How the Bible is organized
  • Major stories and people throughout Scripture
  • Key themes that run throughout the Bible
  • How the Old and New Testaments connect
  • Ways to approach and understand Scripture
  • How the Bible can shape our faith and everyday lives

Whether you’re new to the Bible, have been reading it for years, or simply want a better understanding of the bigger picture, there’s something here for you.

Ask Questions. Learn Together.

You don’t need to be a Bible expert to participate. Bible 101 is a space to learn, ask questions, and explore Scripture alongside others.

Come curious and ready to discover more about the Bible and the story at the heart of the Christian faith.

Join Us This Fall

Wednesdays, September 23–October 14
Led by Bill Gray

Set aside four Wednesdays to explore the Bible from a fresh perspective and build a stronger foundation for engaging with Scripture.

Come learn the story, explore the Scriptures, and discover how the Bible connects to your faith.

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Student Ministry: Oktoberfest

Student Ministry Oktoberfest

An Evening of Fun, Food, and Fellowship

Get ready for an evening of fun with Student Ministry! Join us for Oktoberfest, a special night to hang out, connect with friends, and enjoy some festive fall fun together.

Whether you’re a regular part of Student Ministry or joining us for the first time, Oktoberfest is a great opportunity to get connected and enjoy time together outside of the usual routine.

Come Hang Out

Oktoberfest is all about making memories and enjoying community. Bring your friends and come ready for a fun evening with other students.

You can expect:

  • Festive Oktoberfest-inspired fun
  • Food and refreshments
  • Games and activities
  • Time to hang out with friends
  • Opportunities to meet other students and get connected

There’s no need to come with a group. You’ll have plenty of opportunities to connect, laugh, and have a great time together.

Bring Your Friends

Student Ministry is a place where students can be themselves, build friendships, ask questions, and grow in faith. Events like Oktoberfest are a chance to experience that community in a relaxed and fun environment.

Invite a friend, come hungry, and get ready for a night of good times and great company!

Join Us

Student Ministry Oktoberfest

Come celebrate the season with Student Ministry and enjoy an evening of food, fun, friendship, and fellowship.

Bring your friends and come ready to have a great time!

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Dying for Chocolate: A Murder Mystery Event

Dying for Chocolate: A Murder Mystery Event

An Afternoon of Mystery, Chocolate, and Fun

Get ready for an afternoon of mystery, laughter, and, of course, chocolate! Join Shepherd’s Center of Northern Virginia (SCNOVA) and Floris UMC for Dying for Chocolate, a fun and interactive murder mystery event designed especially for seniors.

You’ll step into a world of clues, characters, and unexpected twists as you work together to figure out who is responsible for the crime. Whether you’re an experienced mystery solver or simply looking for a fun afternoon out, you’ll have the opportunity to enjoy the story, interact with others, and see if you can crack the case.

Come for the Mystery, Stay for the Fun

Murder mysteries are more fun when you solve them together! Gather your friends, meet new people, and enjoy an afternoon filled with conversation, laughter, and a little friendly detective work.

Dying for Chocolate is a great opportunity to:

  • Enjoy a fun and engaging afternoon with others
  • Put your detective skills to the test
  • Follow clues and uncover the mystery
  • Share plenty of laughs along the way
  • Meet and connect with others in the community
  • Enjoy a chocolate-themed experience

You don’t need to be a mystery expert to participate. Just bring your curiosity, your sense of fun, and your best detective instincts!

Save the Date

Thursday, October 15, 2026

This special event is hosted by Shepherd’s Center of Northern Virginia in partnership with Floris UMC and is intended for seniors looking for an enjoyable opportunity to connect, have fun, and try something a little different.

Registration opens September 15 through Shepherd’s Center of Northern Virginia. Once registration is available, a registration link will be added here.

Ready to Solve the Mystery?

Gather your friends and get ready to put your detective skills to work. You never know what clues you’ll uncover or who might be hiding something!

Will you be able to solve the mystery? Join us for Dying for Chocolate and find out!

Registration opens September 15. Check back here for the registration link.

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Grief to Peace

Grief to Peace

Grief can change the way we see the world. When you’re grieving the loss of someone you love, you may find yourself carrying emotions, questions, and experiences that are difficult to navigate alone. Grief to Peace is a six-week support group at Floris designed to provide a caring space for those walking through grief and seeking hope, connection, and peace.

Beginning October 14, this weekly group will bring people together to share, listen, reflect, and explore faith in the midst of loss. Whether your grief is recent or you’ve been carrying it for some time, you are welcome.

A Place to Grieve Together

Grief doesn’t follow a predictable timeline, and there is no single right way to experience it. Grief to Peace offers an opportunity to connect with others who understand the challenges of losing someone important.

Each gathering incorporates:

  • Scripture study to explore faith and hope in the midst of grief
  • Whole-group discussion and opportunities to listen and connect
  • Personal sharing for those who feel comfortable participating
  • Prayer and space for reflection

You are never required to share more than you’re comfortable sharing. Sometimes simply being in a room with others who understand can be meaningful.

Finding Hope in the Journey

Grief can feel isolating, but you don’t have to walk through it alone. Together, we’ll create space for honest conversations about loss while exploring the ways faith can offer comfort, strength, and hope.

This group isn’t about rushing through grief or finding quick answers. It’s about making room for the experience of loss while being supported by a caring community.

Over six weeks, participants will have the opportunity to build connections, reflect on their experiences, and explore what it means to move toward peace while continuing to honor the people and relationships they have lost.

Join Us This Fall

Grief to Peace meets Wednesdays from 7–8:30 p.m., October 14 through November 18, 2026, at Floris UMC.

The group is limited to a small number of participants to help create an environment where meaningful connection and conversation can take place. Registration is required.

If you or someone you know is grieving the loss of a loved one, we invite you to take this step toward connection and support.

You don’t have to have everything figured out. You simply have to show up.

Come as you are. Grieve together. Find connection. Explore hope. Move toward peace.

Register for Grief to Peace

Registration is open through October 16, 2026. There is no cost to participate.

Register Here > 

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