Fairhaven Church

Let’s pack the pantry!

jenn — Fri, 27 Feb 2026 13:32:45 +0000

Did you know that 1 in 4 children in our area struggle with food insecurity? One of the best ways we can help fight hunger is by supporting local food pantries.

Each of our campuses partners with local food pantries and organizations to help under-resourced people in our community. These organizations are seeing record-high demand and working hard to keep up. You can help us “pack the pantry” to help keep their shelves stocked!

So we don’t overwhelm our partners, there are a limited number of spots available. If registration is full or you can’t deliver your items at the specified times, don’t worry. We’ll be doing more initiatives like this, and you can participate in the next one!

Here’s how you can help us pack the pantries:

1. Click the name of your campus below to sign up.
2. Select the pantry location and drop-off time you prefer. In some cases, you can also select the type of food you’d like to provide.
3. Sometime after you register, we’ll send you a list of specific items to buy.
4. Take the items to your selected pantry during the specified collection hours.

. . .

BEAVERCREEK CAMPUS
Feed the Creek
March 8, bring items to worship service

. . .

CENTERVILLE CAMPUS
Feeding Friends
March 14 & 15, 10:30 AM-1:00 PM

. . .

NORTHMONT CAMPUS
Northmont Fish
March 8 & 15, 12:00-4:00 PM

. . .

SPRINGBORO CAMPUS
Springboro Community Assistance Center
March 14 & 15, 1:00-3:00 PM

Additionally, there are opportunities to serve at the Centerville food pantry during drop-off times. Click the link below to sign up for a serving position.

Centerville serving opportunities

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Sabbath Challenge – Part 1

josh — Thu, 26 Feb 2026 03:19:54 +0000

Welcome to the Sabbath Challenge!

First off, we just want to thank you for choosing to say “yes” to this challenge and “no” to everything else in this moment. As we dive in, our prayer is that your “yes” is met with the fuel needed to take you all the way through to an oasis you can return to.

Before we get too far, we want to invite you to pause and reflect. One of the gifts of Sabbath is that it slows us down long enough to notice what’s happening in our souls. This brief survey is an opportunity to take an honest look at where you’re starting and open space for God to meet you there.

👉 Take the survey

⚓️ The three anchors

When we decide to participate in Sabbath rest, we enter what Abraham Joshua Heschel describes as a “palace in time” where we can experience a restoration different than anything the world can provide. We’re going to flip the world’s logic of “busyness = importance” and “stopping = laziness” into “stopping = importance.”

The most important principles we will consider in this mini-series are the three anchors of Sabbath rest:

Creation: We return to the ideal form of creation order: God sits on the throne, and we acknowledge it is not our hands holding together the universe.
Liberation: We remember the fact that our production doesn’t define our value or identity. God, our rescuer does!
Restoration: We celebrate the work that God has done, and we allow Him to work in the stillness created through holy “stopping.”

🌳 This week: The anchor of Creation

This week, we will focus on the anchor of “Creation.”

It’s hard to admit to God our need for Him. It’s a part of our nature to do what is good in our eyes. If we do not pause, especially when we are running ourselves beyond exhaustion, to the point of hurting ourselves and/or others, we have to ask:

Do my actions demonstrate a lack of trust?
In refusing to stop, am I telling God, “You can’t handle the world without me?”

Stopping is the rhythm we participate in to return control and honor to the one who truly deserves it. Believe it or not, He can handle anything!

🗓️ This week’s challenge: Mark the calendar

This week’s challenge is to choose the 24-hour period you will commit to resting in God. Traditionally, this was done sundown on Friday to sundown on Saturday. But feel free to choose any day, or even piece together multiple shorter periods.

In the following weeks, we will discuss ways to prepare for the day and ideas on how to spend that time within your context. But for now, put it on your calendar. It might be enjoyable to mark it with a big, red “X” to show your commitment!

This is step one in returning to God’s way of creation, telling the world and ourselves through this moment, “No, you are not king,” so we can rest in the palace of time God has prepared for us.

👶 A note for parents

We know that Sabbath rest looks different in every season. Parenting, especially with young or special‑needs kids, can make stopping feel nearly impossible. That’s okay. God understands your season, and Sabbath is meant to be a gift, not another pressure.

If it’s helpful, you might consider trying this challenge personally first, in small, realistic ways: moments of quiet, small pauses, or simple practices that fit around caring for your kids. Modeling rest gently is often more powerful than announcing it.

If your family is ready to explore this together, make it playful and flexible. Ask them, “What would a day of resting and delighting in God look like for us?” Think of things that bring calm or joy at your kids’ age levels: getting outside, reading together, slowing the pace. You could even have them draw or name ideas they think represent “rest.”

There’s no wrong way to begin. Start where your season allows, dream together, and choose something that’s life‑giving, not something that adds stress.

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Let’s pack the pantry!Eldercare: Sharing God’s love with care facility residentsLet’s pack the pantry!

josh — Fri, 13 Feb 2026 15:29:16 +0000

Care facility residents deeply need connection, and we get to bring them hope!

Teams from Fairhaven regularly visit care facilities throughout the Dayton area to lead worship services, spend time with residents, and offer meaningful connection. What may seem like a simple hymn, conversation, or prayer can make a profound difference in someone’s day.

Currently, Fairhaven teams are serving in 20 different facilities, faithfully showing up month after month. And the impact is spreading! Recently, we launched a new eldercare team after an activities director saw what Fairhaven was doing at another facility and asked if we could bring that same care and presence to where she now works. That kind of influence reflects the quiet, consistent impact this ministry is making!

If you’d like to be part of this ministry, we’d love to have you! There are many ways to serve: visiting and talking with residents, helping with worship services, or sharing a skill or hobby you enjoy.

To express interest, simply complete the form linked below. We’ll follow up and help you find the best way to get involved.

Get involved

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Subscribe to our “Parent Talks” podcast

josh — Fri, 30 Jan 2026 16:00:52 +0000

Make faith conversations part of your family’s everyday life!

Did you know our kids and students learn from the same Bible stories at the same time? That’s because we want to make it easier for families to discuss and grow in faith together!

Our Parent Talks podcast exists to help you make the most of that opportunity. It’s a practical resource for parents, grandparents, and caregivers who want to be intentional about faith at home, in a way that fits into the rhythm of your week.

Each episode helps you stay in the loop with what your kids and students are learning and gives you easy ways to bring those conversations into real life. You’ll hear:

• A summary of the week’s Bible story or theme
• Encouragement as a spiritual leader in your home
• Practical conversation starters
• Occasional previews of what’s coming in our ministries

Our heart is to equip and empower you to lead your family toward Jesus with confidence and consistency. And whether you listen in the car, on a walk, or between activities, Parent Talks will help you turn everyday moments into meaningful faith conversations.

Listen anytime on your favorite podcast platform:

Apple Podcasts

Spotify

YouTube

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Take your next step in Global Outreach

josh — Thu, 08 Jan 2026 21:21:59 +0000

Our mission to help everyone find hope in Jesus extends around the world!

If you have a heart to make a difference beyond the walls of the church or discover how God might use you in His global mission, there are several ways to get involved in the coming year.

Dominican Republic – Young Adult Trip
May 2-9, 2026
Young adults will travel to Santo Domingo to partner with Envision DR, connecting with college students, young adults, Alliance churches, and One Child centers. Learn more

Guatemala Trip
June 13-21, 2026
Fairhaven has partnered with Galilea Church in Guatemala for over 25 years. This trip will focus on connecting with kids, supporting single moms, and completing light construction projects. Open to students 14+ with a parent. Learn more

Learn more about the Guatemala trip at these upcoming meetings:
Sunday, January 11, 12:00 PM, Springboro Campus
Sunday, January 11, 2:00 PM, Centerville Campus

Dominican Republic – Student Trip
July 25-August 1, 2026
Students will partner with Envision DR in Santiago de los Caballeros, assisting with construction, sports programs, and One Child centers. Open to students in 8th-12th grade.

Learn more about the student trip at this upcoming meeting:
Sunday, January 18, 3:00 PM, Centerville Campus

👉 Learn how to participate in any of our trips

Monday Missions Night
February 9, 7:00 PM
Centerville Campus

This special evening will focus on how we can make God known through prayer. We’ll learn how to pray for our Muslim neighbors during the upcoming season of Ramadan, a time when Muslims around the world intentionally seek God through prayer and fasting. This night will offer insight, guidance, and practical resources to help you pray with understanding and purpose.

Questions? Email our outreach team at outreach@fairhaven.church

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How to go on a Fairhaven mission trip

josh — Thu, 08 Jan 2026 20:30:53 +0000

Going on a mission trip is more than traveling somewhere new. It’s about joining God in what He’s already doing. If you’re sensing a nudge to take that step, here’s what the process looks like.

1. Pray

Begin with prayer. Ask God whether one of the upcoming mission trips is where He’s leading you. Take time to listen and discern, inviting Him to shape both your heart and your expectations.

2. Let us know you’re interested

When you’re ready, complete our online interest form to let us know what you’re interested in. This helps our team connect with you and guide you through the next steps.

Interest form

3. Meet with the team

You’ll meet with our Outreach Pastor and the trip’s team leader. This conversation is a chance to ask questions, learn more about the trip, and confirm that it’s a good fit for you and the team.

4. Receive your welcome email

If you’re invited onto the team, you’ll receive a welcome email with:

Registration instructions
Details on fundraising
Clear next steps for completing your registration with our on-site ministry partners

5. Register and secure your spot

Using the link in the email, you’ll complete registration and pay the required deposit to secure your place on the team. Registration includes submitting:

Passport information
Frequent flyer details (if applicable)
Required travel ID information for flight booking

Trip costs include:

Airfare or fuel
Lodging
In-country food and transportation
Emergency international travel insurance
Ministry-related incidentals (such as water or supplies provided by the partner ministry)

Trip costs do NOT include:

Passport application or renewal fees
Required or recommended immunizations or medications
Airport meals, souvenirs, or transportation to the departure airport

6. Commit to training and deadlines

Mark your calendar for all team meetings and payment deadlines. Attendance at team trainings is required to help you prepare spiritually, emotionally, and culturally for the trip.

7. Share your journey

Invite your small group, friends, and family into the experience. Ask them to pray for you and consider supporting your trip financially. Mission trips are a community effort, and your story can inspire others.

8. Go with a servant heart

As you go, carry a posture of humility. Be ready to serve, stay flexible, and extend grace to your teammates and those you’re serving alongside.

9. Return with a plan

When you return home, don’t rush past what God has done. Ask Him:

What is next?
How are You inviting me to live differently now?

This may look like going on another trip, engaging in local outreach, serving at church, or sharing the hope of Jesus more intentionally with your neighbors.

Mission trips don’t just change where you go, they shape who you become. As you take each step, trust that God is at work in you and through you, inviting you to live out His love wherever He sends you next.

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Find community in a small group

josh — Fri, 02 Jan 2026 17:08:57 +0000

A new year is a season to think about things we want to leave behind and questions about what God may be inviting us into next. You don’t have to navigate that alone.

Small groups are where people gather during the week to talk through the sermon, pray together, and support one another as they grow in faith. They create space to be honest, ask questions, and take meaningful next steps.

Our new sermon series, No Turning Back, begins January 11 and walks through the book of Exodus, a story of God leading His people out of captivity and into freedom. If there’s something in your life you want to leave behind, or if you want to explore this series more deeply, a small group can provide the support and space to do that.

Watch video

Ways to Get Connected

Join an on-campus small group.
Groups are meeting at our Centerville Campus during the series. Childcare is available on Mondays.

Monday night groups

Thursday night groups

Join an online small group
A flexible option if your schedule is busy or you prefer to meet virtually.

Online groups

Find an existing group
Browse available groups and find one that fits your location and schedule.

Find a group

Start your own group
All you need is a couple friends, and a space to meet!

Host a group

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Baptism: An outward sign of an inward change

vesst — Thu, 01 Jan 2026 14:00:00 +0000

Baptism symbolizes a believer finding new life in Jesus. It’s a public declaration, where someone identifies himself or herself as a Christ-follower. At Fairhaven, we’re thrilled to see people being baptized every month. Here are some of the reasons people are getting baptized:

Jesus is my Lord and Savior, and I want to take the next step.

I want to make a public declaration of my relationship with Christ.

I’ve strayed from my faith. This is me coming back.

I was baptized as an infant, but now as an adult, it’s different.

I’ve grown to a better understanding of who Jesus is and what He did for me.

How to take your next step with baptism:

Baptisms take place on the second Sunday* of the month during worship services. Select a campus below for registrations and to see campus-specific details for how to get baptized.
*There is no baptism service the month of December.

CENTERVILLE CAMPUS:
Baptisms at our Centerville Campus take place during our 9:00 AM, 10:30 AM and 12:00 PM worship services. Please register online in advance of your requested date of baptism. If you have questions, please contact Cindy Adams or call the campus office at 937-434-8627. Baptisms take place on the second Sunday* of the month during worship services. Select a campus below for registrations and to see campus-specific details for how to get baptized.
*There is no baptism service the month of December.

Elementary kids who want to be baptized (and their parents) should contact Lydia McGuire and sign up for the Kids Baptism Class, which is required for the child and his/her parents to attend. We recommend discussing baptism with your child around second grade. It is important that the decision to be baptized is based on your child’s understanding of their faith. We recommend child dedication for children ages birth-six years.

Middle school and high school students who want to be baptized should sign up for the Student Baptism Class prior to participating in baptism.

NORTHMONT CAMPUS
If you’re interested in participating, please contact Campus Pastor Justen Hyland or call the campus office at 937-836-1069.

Elementary kids who want to be baptized (and their parents) should email Justen to sign up for the Kids Baptism Class, which is required for the child and his/her parents to attend. We recommend discussing baptism with your child around second grade. It is important that the decision to be baptized is based on your child’s understanding of their faith. We recommend child dedication for children ages birth-six years.

SPRINGBORO CAMPUS:
If you’re interested in participating, please contact Campus Pastor Jared Petty or call the campus office at 937-353-7713.

Elementary kids who want to be baptized (and their parents) should contact Lauren Robison to sign up for the Kids Baptism Class, which is required for the child and his/her parents to attend. We recommend discussing baptism with your child around second grade. It is important that the decision to be baptized is based on your child’s understanding of their faith. We recommend child dedication for children ages birth-six years.

Middle school and high school students who want to be baptized should contact Andrew Rieck to schedule an in-person conversation prior to participating in baptism.

BEAVERCREEK CAMPUS:
If you’re interested in participating, please contact Campus Pastor Levi Smith, or call the campus office at 937-889-2296.

Elementary kids who want to be baptized (and their parents) should contact Johnny McGuire to sign up for the Kids Baptism Class, which is required for the child and his/her parents to attend. We recommend discussing baptism with your child around second grade. It is important that the decision to be baptized is based on your child’s understanding of their faith. We recommend child dedication for children ages birth-six years.

Middle school and high school students who want to be baptized should contact Levi Smith to schedule an in-person conversation prior to participating in baptism.

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First Step: Get connected at Fairhaven

josh — Thu, 01 Jan 2026 13:00:00 +0000

If you want to learn more about who we are and what we believe, First Step is the place to start. In First Step, you will learn about our vision, our values, and the truths we live by.

This small group experience is also a great place for you to meet new people and build relationships with others. You will also learn more about our denomination, the Christian & Missionary Alliance, and how we do church, meet staff, and hear about serving opportunities and church membership.

Click on your campus for upcoming dates and registration information.

Beavercreek Campus

Centerville Campus

Northmont Campus

Springboro Campus

Those interested in becoming covenant members of Fairhaven Church will attend First Step, followed by a welcome meeting with a member of the First Step Team.

Watch video

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Experience the Wonder of Christmas

josh — Mon, 08 Dec 2025 12:55:30 +0000

It’s almost time for our annual Wonder of Christmas events! These one-of-a-kind Christmas celebrations will warm your heart and lift your spirit as we celebrate the coming of Jesus together. Be sure to invite your friends, make your plans and get your tickets!

Free tickets are required to attend each event, and they’re available via the links below. Once your plans are made, sign up to serve at another event! We’re expecting hundreds of guests this Christmas, and YOU can help make an impact in their lives by serving on one of our awesome teams.

Beavercreek Campus

Centerville Campus

Northmont Campus

Springboro Campus

Watch online

Event times

Beavercreek, Northmont & Springboro Campuses:
Wednesday, Dec. 24 – 4:30 PM, 7:00 PM

Centerville Campus:
Tuesday, Dec. 23 – 2:00 PM, 4:30 PM, 7:00 PM
Wednesday, Dec. 24 – 2:00 PM, 4:30 PM, 7:00 PM

FAQs

Are tickets required?
Yes. Ticketing allows us to monitor exactly how many people are coming to each event, avoid overcrowding our facilities and refrain from turning people away unexpectedly.

How much do tickets cost? How do I get them?
Tickets are free, and you can get them right here starting December 8 at 8:00 AM. If you need assistance, call your campus office.

What about my kids?
Childcare is available at all events for children age 6 weeks – pre-K. All children in childcare must have a childcare ticket. If your child will attend the event with you, they must have an event ticket. All tickets are available will be available here starting December 8 at 8:00 AM.

Does my ticket reserve seats for me and my group?
At our Centerville Campus, seating is reserved, and you will select the exact seats where you will sit. At all other campuses, tickets are general admission, and seating is first come, first served.

When should I arrive?
Doors open 30 minutes prior to each event. Please allow time for childcare check-in.

What if I have tickets I no longer need?
Please return them so other people can attend in your place! Use the link in your confirmation email to edit your order or call your campus office for assistance.

Can I watch online?
All of our Centerville Campus events will be broadcasted live via our Online Campus.

What if the event I want to attend is full?
Please select another event to attend, or watch online instead.

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