We have a wonderful opportunity to serve local families in need through Family Promise during the week of May 4–10. Volunteers are needed to prepare and deliver evening meals for families who are currently working to overcome homelessness and regain stability.
This is a meaningful way to offer support and encouragement to those going through a difficult time. Whether you can provide a full meal or partner with others to share the responsibility, every contribution makes a difference.
If you’re interested in helping, please contact karazsia1@aol.com or call/text 812-798-1216.
Let’s come together to share kindness, compassion, and a good meal!
“The earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it.” – Psalm 24:1
At PUMC, we believe that caring for the environment is a faithful response to God’s call to stewardship. That’s why we’re launching Eco-Action, a new ministry dedicated to sustainable living and the care of creation.
Why We’re Taking Action
God created a world full of beauty and balance—and God entrusted us to care for it. Yet today, even right here in Hendricks County, we see signs that our environment is under pressure. Local landfills are expanding rapidly. Streams like White Lick Creek face threats from pollution and runoff. And single-use plastics, especially Styrofoam, are contributing to long-term waste problems. Eco-Action is our response. This ministry will lead initiatives that reduce our environmental impact, promote awareness, and foster a deeper spiritual connection to the earth God made.
Our First Steps
We’ve already begun our journey. Eco-Action has partnered with the Trustees to:
Resume recycling services at PUMC through Waste Management.
Reduce the use of Styrofoam products in our food ministries.
These are small but meaningful steps toward a greener church.
How You Can Help
This is a ministry that needs many hands and hearts. Whether you’re a nature lover, a curious learner, or just someone who wants to make a difference, there’s a place for you in Eco-Action.
Ways to get involved:
Pray for the work we are doing.
Join our team—no experience needed.
Share your gifts and skills—from gardening to research.
We believe that every small act of care can make a big impact. Join us as we explore how PUMC can become a model of environmental justice and faithful stewardship.
my son, Braydon Kurt Alexander, by Thomasina Alexander Keith Barding and loved ones, by Betty Barding our parents, Don & Lettie Bennett, and Ed & Jewel Thompson, by Joe & Sandy Bennett Cole Birch, by Russell Birch Mark’s loving parents, Barbara & Horace Blackwelder, and Uncle Charles, by Rebecca Blackwelder Jack Blevins, by Kay Blevins & family Alton & Bernice Bowman, and Gaylord & Maxine Conrad, by Chuck & Gloria Bowman Fred & Edna Frees, and Robert & AnnaMarie Clark, by Dave & Wanda Clark our parents, Melvin & Gaynell Brown and Eugene & Jeannette Tague, and Phil’s sister, Karen Heffelman Owens, by Phil & Judy Heffelman Ken & Carolyn Jolly, by Tamara, Terry, Virginia and Mike Jones our mothers, Valerie Clark and Carol Edmondson, by Daniel & Debi Kinnamon my husband Bill, by Pam Lyons Debbie McGinn, by Rachel McGinn our fathers, Robert Coffer and Jack Miller, by Brent & Jenny Miller Shirley Puzey, by Terri Rifkind our grandson Brayden Smith, by Larry & Anne Rudy our Matriarchs in Heaven: Donnie Kingsbury & Velma Moll, Thelma Johnson, Jackie Snow, and Cheri Snow, by Kelli Snow son Philip Sullenger, and loved ones, by Lou & Vern Sullenger our parents and grandparents, Gene & Phyllis Headley and Ralph & Wilma Thrasher, by Sara, Brent, and Kari Thrasher Ed Vermillion, by Eleanor Vermillion & family Robert R., Charlotte M. and Robert C. Watts, and cousin Ann, by Judy Watts Marlene Poster, by Tom & Zoe Wiltrout
Given in celebration of:
my children, Kaylynn Elizabeth and Logan Dean, and my granddaughter, Lucy Grace, by Thomasina Alexander the birth of my great granddaughter, Audrey Kate, by Barbara Baker my amazing parents, Carol & Bob Grimm, by Rebecca Blackwelder our family, by Bud & Anita Green our children, Natalie and Brad, by Pam Lyons our mothers, Evelyn Coffer and Valerie Miller, by Brent & Jenny Miller our grandchildren Addison, Anna, Bryce and Lucia, by Jeannine & Gary Neuen my grandchildren – “Treva’s Terrific Ten!”; by Treva Rubsam
The heart of our church beats with the rhythm of Loving God, Loving People. This isn’t just a slogan; it’s the driving force behind everything we do. And you, dear reader, are an integral part of this mission!
We are blessed with a diverse congregation, each member brimming with unique talents and passions. These gifts are meant to be shared, to build up our community and reach out to those in need.
Here are just a few ways you can put your talents to work for God and the people around you: Community Outreach: Do you have a heart for serving those in need? Join us in organizing food drives, visiting the elderly, or participating in neighborhood clean-ups. Every act of kindness makes a difference.
Children and Youth Ministries: Sharing your love and knowledge with the younger generation is a rewarding experience. We’re always looking for volunteers to help with Sunday School, youth groups, and special events that nurture their spiritual growth.
Worship and Music: If you have a passion for music or the arts, consider joining our choir or worship team. Your talents can enhance our worship experience and inspire others to connect with God.
Mission Trips: Want to make a difference beyond our community? Participate in mission trips! These experiences allow you to serve those in need, build lasting relationships, and share the love of Christ.
Support Services: Do you have skills in organization, communication, technology, or a desire to contribute to the smooth operation of our church? Your help is invaluable! From managing events to assisting with communications and facility maintenance, every bit of support makes a difference.
Every member of our congregation has something special to offer. By serving together, we embody the essence of Loving God, Loving People.
Ready to discover your place in service? We’d love to help you find the perfect fit for your gifts and passions. Visit pumc.org/serve to explore the many ways you can make a difference!
Let’s come together to make a difference in our community and beyond. Your involvement is not just a contribution; it’s a way to live out our faith and share God’s love with others.
There’s never a dull moment in our Preschool and After School programming! Each week is filled with laughter, creativity, and community, and we are so grateful for the many hands and hearts that help make this ministry a place of joy and growth for our children.
Russell Birch spending time with the kids
We want to give a special thank-you to Russell Birch, who volunteers his time each week to be with the kids. His consistent presence and gentle spirit have become a cherished part of our routine, and the children absolutely light up when he walks through the door.
Elaine Jacone helping children sew bunnies over Spring Break
During Spring Break, we had a special treat when Elaine Jacone brought her creativity and kindness into the classroom. She guided the children through a fun and hands-on activity sewing their very own bunnies. What a wonderful memory for everyone involved!
We’re also incredibly grateful to the behind-the-scenes angels who regularly drop off calendars, stickers, and paper. These simple gifts go a long way in our classroom. The kids love using them to play school and office, sparking imaginative play and joyful collaboration.
Tony and Debbie Perona with their grandchildren serving in the feeding ministry
Another heartfelt thanks goes to Tony and Debbie Perona, who bring their grandchildren in every chance they can to serve in our feeding ministry. What a beautiful legacy of service and compassion they are passing down to the next generation!
We are continually blessed by the generosity, creativity, and love that surrounds our children. Thank you to everyone who pours into this ministry—you are making a difference in ways both big and small!
We are excited to announce our upcoming mission trip to Henderson Settlement in Frakes, Kentucky, scheduled for May 18–23. This is a wonderful opportunity to serve and make a meaningful impact in the Appalachian community.
About Henderson Settlement
Established in 1925 by Hiram M. Frakes, Henderson Settlement has been dedicated to improving lives through Christ-centered service. The settlement offers various community outreach programs, including childcare, youth ministries, a food pantry, senior support, a library, and more. Volunteers play a crucial role in supporting these initiatives, contributing to home repairs, educational programs, and other essential services.
Volunteer Opportunities
During our mission trip, there will be diverse opportunities to serve: Quilting and Sewing: Volunteers can assist in creating quilts and other handcrafted items to be sold in the Gift Shop, helping to offset operating expenses of the settlement. Construction Projects: Depending on the number of volunteers and the community’s needs, we will undertake construction or repair projects to improve local homes and facilities. No matter your skill set, there is a place for you to contribute meaningfully.
Accommodations and Costs
Henderson Settlement provides comfortable accommodations for volunteers. The cost per person for lodging and meals is $275 per week for dormitory-style housing or $350 per week for private housing. However, most – if not all – of this cost to volunteers is offset from previous donations. These fees cover lodging and meals during your stay.
Join Us
We invite you to be part of this fulfilling experience. Whether you’re skilled in construction, enjoy sewing, or simply have a heart to serve, your participation will make a difference.
For more information or to sign up for the mission trip, please contact Don Sanders at:
Email: dsandjs@att.net
Cell Phone: 317-340-5188
We look forward to serving together and sharing God’s love with the community of Henderson Settlement.
“I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly.” — John 10:10
In an effort to embody Christ’s compassion and respond to the very real suffering present in our community, Plainfield United Methodist Church, in partnership with Family Promise, has taken a meaningful step forward. We are honored to host a Narcan nasal spray distribution box—a small but potentially life-saving resource—on the northern edge of our property, adjacent to the church parking lot entrance off of Raymond Street.
Narcan, or Naloxone, is a non-prescription medication that can reverse the effects of an opioid overdose in moments. Much like a defibrillator or an EpiPen, it is designed to be used in emergency situations. It’s not a drug that enables use; it’s a tool that offers a second chance at life. Narcan has no potential for abuse, is not addictive, and is harmless if administered to someone not experiencing an overdose. It simply saves lives.
Each day in the United States, more than 225 people lose their lives to opioid overdoses. These are not just statistics—they are our neighbors, our coworkers, our friends, and family members. By offering Narcan in a publicly accessible way, we are helping ensure that the next person who finds themselves in a life-or-death moment might have a chance to live.
This effort is about compassion, not condemnation. People who use drugs—or those who love someone who does—might pass by our Narcan box and choose to take a dose home, just in case. That choice does not promote drug use. Instead, it promotes survival. It makes it possible for someone to stay alive long enough to find support, seek recovery, and be restored to the fullness of life they were created for.
This is not just a public health initiative. For us, it is an expression of our Christian witness. We believe in healing, not stigma. Restoration, not rejection. Life, not death. Jesus consistently reached out to the hurting, the struggling, and the outcast—and we seek to do the same.
As followers of Christ, we are called to stand with those in pain. Hosting this Narcan box is one way we say to our community: “Your life matters.” We believe in the sacred worth of every person and the possibility of healing for every soul.
Family Promise is providing and resupplying the Narcan at no cost, ensuring this ministry of presence and protection is sustained. We are grateful for their partnership and their commitment to the well-being of our shared community.
If you or someone you know could benefit from having Narcan on hand, please don’t hesitate to access it. Let this simple box be a reminder that there is always hope, always help, and always a community that cares.
For further information, we encourage you to read the Narcan OTC Fact Sheet and learn more about How and When to Use Naloxone for an Opioid Overdose.
Church family, music has always been central to my faith in God. From my early days in the youth group band More Than Conquerors to leading worship today, I have found that music connects us to Him in ways words alone cannot. As the NewDay worship leader, I have the joy of guiding our congregation into His presence through song.
A Lifelong Calling to Worship
Since high school in 2007, I have been leading worship in our community. Starting in youth group, I learned that worship is more than just singing—it’s an offering to God. Those early experiences shaped my understanding of how music invites us into His presence. Over the years, my role has changed, but my heart remains the same: to help our church encounter God through worship.
Music as a Bridge to God
The Bible is filled with examples of music drawing people closer to God. The Psalms, written by David, express raw emotions of joy, sorrow, and gratitude. When we sing together, we follow in the footsteps of believers who have worshiped through music for centuries. Worship isn’t just about the lyrics or melodies—it’s about opening our hearts to God in a way that invites His Spirit to move among us.
Witnessing God Move Through Worship
One of the greatest joys of leading worship is seeing how God moves through our music. A song can bring peace to a troubled heart, inspire surrender, or even lead someone to faith. When we, as a congregation, lift our voices in unison, it’s a powerful reminder that we are one body in Christ. Worship is not about performance but about creating a space where we can encounter the love and presence of God together.
The Joy of Leading Worship
Leading you all in worship is more than just a role for me—it’s a calling. I prayerfully choose songs that speak to where we are as a church, whether in times of celebration or deep reflection. My hope is that each song we sing together draws us closer to God. Seeing you engage in worship—lifting your hands, closing your eyes, singing from your hearts—reminds me why I do this. Worship is a gift from God, and I am honored to share it with you.
Worship Beyond Sunday
Church, worship doesn’t only happen on Sunday mornings. It’s a way of life. Whether singing in the car, meditating on lyrics, or filling your home with praise, music has the power to keep our hearts connected to God. He doesn’t seek perfect singers—He desires sincere worshippers. Psalm 100:1 says, “Make a joyful noise unto the Lord,” and that’s what matters most.
Music as a Reflection of God’s Glory
Ultimately, worship through music is about glorifying God. It shifts our focus from our struggles to His greatness. During our busy lives, worship allows us to pause, reflect, and be reminded of His faithfulness.
As we continue worshiping together at Plainfield United Methodist Church, my prayer is that every song we sing deepens our faith and strengthens our connection with God. Worship is a powerful gift, and I am grateful to share it with each of you. So, I encourage you—sing out, engage fully, and let the music guide you into a deeper relationship with Him. Because when we lift our voices as one, we step into a holy encounter with our Creator.
As we enter the month of April, we welcome beautiful signs of spring. We emerge from out of our homes without hats and gloves to hear a new bird song and witness the budding of flowers and trees. No one is as relieved to find warming temperatures as Louie, our family terrier mix. The rumor is that his owner was reluctant to give him long walks in subzero temperatures, so he has been storing up his energy and enthusiasm for a spring time explosion of exercise. Now, with so much outdoor movement of kids on scooters and fellow dogs taking hikes, Louie is barking out his spring time anthem wanting to join the parade.
There are moments when his seasonal madness can become irritating, when it’s impossible for any human to match his energy, when his loud conversation makes it difficult to focus, when he tugs at your arm turning a morning sprint into a jolting fitness experiment. Even at four-years-old he abounds with puppy energy and we wonder if he will ever grow up. (Training from his owners might help!)
But we can also acknowledge and celebrate Louie’s signs of growth. He will sit and stay for an evening treat. He has stopped from nipping at your fingers in playful bouts. He does find ways to slow down and snooze at your side during an evening movie. He can find his way to the safety of his crate rather than hiding when we plan to leave the house. He will not develop any further from his tiny stature and strapping twelve-pound frame, but he is growing up.
The Christian experience is one of continuous growth. Regardless of age or years of church membership, we all find ourselves as students or travelers along a way of new discoveries in grace, maturing in our understanding of Christ, and growing in our practice of obedience to God’s Word. In preaching to new Christians across Asia Minor, Paul says, “But speaking the truth in love, we must grow up in every way into him who is the head, into Christ” (Ephesians 4:15).
Each moment is an opportunity to practice maturity, to test out our faith, and to place reliance on the spirit of Christ as it instructs, guides, replenishes, and protects. We draw upon the modeling of Jesus to approach situations in a new way. We bring greater assurance to arenas of fear. We embrace new opportunities with the confidence of God’s provision. We release impulses of anger to implement mercy. We opt against holding grudges and find instances to practice forgiveness. More than adopting new words, our actions do the talking as we grow up in service to Christ and one another. We find ourselves more mature when we unsurprisingly see God at work in all the places where we reside and in all the things we are doing, as we are moved by and moving with God’s momentum in the world.
There are prevalent signs of the spring season, newness and beauty emerging, activity returning, God’s wonderful companions and creatures bouncing and bounding. There is also the humbling of foot washing at the Last Supper in this season. There is commitment to remain at the cross when others have distanced themselves from the hardship of suffering. There is humility, self-giving, sacrifice, and brokenness in this season. There is grief, wrestling with the experience of the disappearance of the holy. These too are part of our seasonal story presenting a challenge for our growth in the Spirit. In the loveliness and the harrowing, in brightness and the dark, in the celebration and tears, God invites us to grow into a new way of life.
PUMC 2025 – A Vision for Doing Life Together as those on the Way of Jesus
As we move through this year, growing in our faith, learning the way of Jesus, and aligning with God for the transformation of the world, I invite us to do so with the vision of four priorities for our ministry together.
Belonging: We are creating spaces where people are at home in the love of God with themselves and one another.
Growing: We are encouraging and developing pathways for individuals and groups to take steps forward in their practice of faith.
Leading: We are equipping and empowering individuals to step into the serving and leadership opportunities before them.
Celebrating: We are telling the stories of God’s faithfulness and the fruitfulness of our ministry together.
At Plainfield UMC, we make it easy for everyone to stay connected, whether you’re new or a longtime member. With one quick scan, you can access everything you need to stay engaged.
Your One-Stop Connection Point: The QR Code
Find our QR code on chair cards in the sanctuary and annex, and on screen during worship services. A quick scan opens the door to:
Connection Card: Share your contact info, ask questions, and sign up for updates to get more involved.
Weekly eNews: Stay informed with news, events, devotionals, and ministry spotlights.
Online Giving: Easily donate anytime through our secure giving platform.
Activities & Studies: Browse current Bible studies, small groups, and volunteer opportunities.
Website & Resources: Explore ministries, prayer requests, event calendars, and more.
Beyond the QR Code: In-Person Connection
While technology keeps us informed, nothing beats connecting face-to-face. Join us for worship, coffee with a small group, or volunteer at a service project.
Take Your Next Step
Scan the QR code today to explore how you can connect, grow, and serve. Our staff is here to help you get started.
Plainfield UMC Today 