Open Your Pantry, Open Your Heart: Food Donations at PUMC

At Plainfield United Methodist Church (PUMC), we are committed to caring for our neighbors by ensuring everyone has access to nutritious food. Our Donation Depot serves as a vital resource for local families struggling with food insecurity.

The Growing Need in Our Community

Recent data reveals that food insecurity is a pressing issue in Indiana. In 2022, approximately 950,220 Hoosiers experienced food insecurity, with a state rate of 13.9%. This represents a significant increase from previous years, highlighting the escalating need for food assistance. Moreover, 1 in 5 children in Indiana faces hunger, emphasizing the importance of community support.

In Hendricks County, while poverty rates are below the state average, food insecurity remains a concern. Local food pantries are essential in bridging the gap for families who may not qualify for federal assistance but still struggle to put food on the table.

How You Can Help

You can make a tangible difference by donating non-perishable food items such as canned goods, pasta, cereal, and peanut butter. Bring your contributions to the Donation Depot:

  • Sunday Mornings: During worship services.
  • Weekdays: During church office hours.

Every donation, no matter how small, helps provide essential meals, reduces food waste, and promotes health and well-being in our community.

Join Us in Nourishing Our Neighbors

By opening your pantry and your heart, you support local families in need. Let’s work together to combat food insecurity in our community. Your generosity embodies the spirit of compassion and service that defines PUMC.

For more information on how to get involved, please contact the Rev. Ken Loudenback at kloudenback@pumc.org.

Set Your Course for Adventure: True North Vacation Bible School at PUMC!

Join us this June at Plainfield United Methodist Church for an exciting week of discovery, music, and fun at Vacation Bible School! The theme, True North, helps kids navigate today’s world by teaching that Jesus is our ultimate guide.VBS runs June 23–27 from 5:30 PM to 8:00 PM at PUMC, 600 Simmons Street, Plainfield, IN 46168. Children will enjoy hands-on activities, Bible stories, music, and adventures to strengthen their faith and purpose.

This is a great opportunity for kids to grow in faith, make new friends, and have fun! All children are welcome. Don’t miss out—register today at pumc.link/2025vbs and secure your child’s spot for an unforgettable week!

We Need Your Help!

VBS is one of our biggest outreach events, and we need volunteers to help with everything from decorating and snack preparation to leading groups and crafts. Whether for one day or the entire week, your help makes a difference.

Step up and volunteer today!

To get involved, contact Carey Michels at cmichels@pumc.org.

Let’s make True North VBS unforgettable for our kids and community! Take action now—register or volunteer to make a lasting impact!

Last Saturday Lunch: April 25, 2025

We’re thrilled to invite you to a free community lunch at our church on the last Saturday of every month. Bring your friends and family to join us for a delicious meal and some good company.
The lunch is served from 11:15 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at Door 14, located on the north side of the Sanctuary.

We’re looking forward to sharing a meal and building community together!
If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to Mary Ann Hamilton at m.a.hamilton2@gmail.com.

See you there!

Second Saturday Lunch: April 12, 2024

Mark your calendar! On the second Saturday of every month from 11:00–11:30 AM, we’re serving up warm, delicious meals to go. Simply enter through Door 14 and head to the kitchen.

Know someone who could use a meal? Let’s spread the love! Email MaryAnn at m.a.hamilton2@gmail.com to arrange a meal for them.

Don’t miss this opportunity to enjoy great food and make someone’s day a little brighter. See you there!

The Chosen – A Small Group Study

You’re Invited: A Small Group Study on The Chosen

Are you looking for a meaningful way to deepen your faith and connect with others? Join us for an engaging small group study based on The Chosen, the first multi-season series about the life of Jesus. Together, we’ll explore what it truly means to be chosen by Him.

What to Expect

  • Watch & Reflect – We’ll watch Season 1 (8 episodes) of The Chosen and discuss its powerful themes.
  • Biblical Connections – Dive into Isaiah 43 and see how its promises are fulfilled in Jesus and His followers.
  • Thoughtful Discussion – Explore script excerpts, quotes, and illustrations from the series, connecting them to your own faith journey.
  • Community & Fellowship – Share insights and grow in faith with others in a welcoming and supportive setting.

Come and see how being chosen by Jesus impacts our lives today. We hope you’ll join us!

To sign up for The Chosen Bible Study, visit pumc.link/thechosen.

Help Us Shape the Future of PUMC Youth Ministry

As we prepare for the search for a new Youth Pastor following Pastor Bob’s retirement this summer, the Staff Parish Relations Committee invites families of youth who have attended or currently participate in PUMC Youth activities to share their thoughts.

We want to understand what aspects of the program—and the qualities in a Youth Pastor—are most important to our youth and their parents. Your input will help guide us in making the best hiring decision for our church community.

Please take a few moments to complete our survey by scanning the QR code above or following this link: tinyurl.com/y2nseafa

Thank you for your time, prayers, and support!

What’s Happening with PUMC Youth?

Join us Sunday, March 30, for our Youth Gathering at 9:40 AM in Room 204 with donuts and fellowship. Youth Worship follows at 10 AM in Room 200. This week’s theme, “Shine On!”, explores how we can shine our light through small, daily acts. Read Matthew 5:16 and 6:22-23 to reflect ahead.

Looking for fun? We still have seats for the Indy Fuel Hockey Game on Saturday, April 5, against the Fort Wayne Komets. Departing PUMC at 5:30 PM and returning by 10:30 PM. Tickets are $20, and you can use your youth account. Sign up outside the youth room or text Bob.

Want to make a difference? Serve with the PUMC Homeless Ministry on Monday, April 7. We need two youth volunteers. Sign up by the youth room or text Bob.
Save the date for Bowling at Brownsburg Bowl on Sunday, May 18, right after Youth Worship. $30 covers two games, a $10 arcade card, pizza, breadsticks, and drinks. Return around 3:30 PM.

Join us for the Good Friday Youth Vigil on April 18 at 7 PM in Room 200. Experience a multimedia reflection on the Passion story. Youth who’d like to participate should contact Bob by April 6.

Summer Highlights:

  • Appalachian Mission Trip: June 8-14. Limited spots available; contact Bob soon.
  • Camp Adventure: July 6-11 for Middle Schoolers. Register online by April 20. Apply for scholarships before registering.
  • Canoe Trip: July 13-20 for ages 17-21. Sign up near Youth Worship.

Scholarships Available: Need financial assistance? Applications are by Youth Worship and in Bob’s office.

Questions? Contact Pastor Bob at bpreusch@pumc.org. Let’s make this spring and summer unforgettable!

Announcement: Pastor Ken Loudenback’s New Role

We’re pleased to announce that Ken Loudenback is now serving as Associate Pastor of Missions and Older Adult Ministries. In this role, he will support the Mission Team in local and global outreach and provide care, discipleship, and connection for our older adult members.

Ken’s responsibilities include leading monthly worship at Cumberland Trace, developing fellowship and discipleship gatherings, and training volunteers to strengthen these ministries.

Please join us in celebrating Ken’s expanded role and the continued growth of our mission and older adult ministries.

Celebrate Easter with Beautiful Lilies

This Easter, help fill our church with the joy and beauty of Easter lilies! Honor or remember a loved one, or celebrate a special moment by dedicating a lily. Each flower serves as a symbol of hope and new life in Christ.

Lilies are $10 each, and payment must accompany your order.

Order by April 14, 2025 at pumc.org/easterlilies.

Prefer assistance? Call Brent Miller at 317.839.2319, ext. 223 for help.

Payments can be made securely online through SecureGive at pumc.org/securegive or by mailing or dropping off a check to:
Plainfield UMC
600 Simmons St.
Plainfield, IN 46168

Please write “Lilies” in the memo of your check. All payments must be received by April 14, 2025.
Thank you for helping us celebrate the joy of Easter!

Finding Hope After Loss: GriefShare Returns Spring 2025

Have you experienced the loss of a loved one? Are you struggling to navigate the complexities of grief? Plainfield UMC is offering a lifeline of hope and healing with the return of GriefShare, an 11-week seminar starting on May 18th, 2025.

Led by compassionate Stephen Ministers, GriefShare provides a safe and supportive space to explore the grieving process. Through a unique blend of biblical wisdom and practical tools, you’ll gain valuable insights, learn coping strategies, and discover hope for the future.

Mark your calendar for May 18th! More details and registration information coming soon. Stay tuned!