Blog

Bell Choir Director – A Key Role in Musical Ministry

Plainfield United Methodist Church (PUMC) is seeking a passionate and skilled Bell Choir Director to lead the handbell and handchime ensemble. This role involves directing the bell choir, planning rehearsals, and selecting music that enhances worship services, special events, and community performances. The Bell Choir Director will work closely with the Music Director and pastor to ensure the music aligns with the themes of each service or event.

The director will be responsible for fostering a supportive and enthusiastic atmosphere, encouraging teamwork among choir members, and ensuring both individual and group growth. Regular rehearsals are held on Monday evenings, and the bell choir performs once a month from September to May. The Bell Choir Director will also organize special performances for holidays and community outreach.

Key responsibilities include music selection, rehearsal management, performance coordination, and maintaining musical equipment. The director will also assist with budget planning and manage relationships with donors. The position requires strong musical leadership, proficiency in reading music, and the ability to work with a variety of age groups and skill levels.

This role offers the opportunity to make a significant impact in the church community through music. The position is part-time with a salary of $7,400.

For more information, please visit pumc.org/job-opportunities.

Reach Beyond: January 5, 2025 Update

After months of prayerful planning, Reach Beyond is ready to help PUMC extend its mission and share God’s love in powerful new ways! This inspiring project will transform our Worship Annex into a warm, welcoming hub for hospitality, outreach, and worship.

We’re making meaningful updates: replacing broken windows, upgrading 25-year-old carpet, modernizing the electrical panel, and adding cozy seating. The refreshed space will also feature a permanent prayer wall, art tracks, and more—a beautiful reflection of God’s love for all.

With a total project cost of $65,000, we’re already over halfway there! As of January 5, 2025, we’ve raised $39,688.66. Every gift brings us closer to our goal.

This revitalized space will bless PUMC and our community, offering new ways to connect, grow, and share the Good News of Christ. Your support matters—together, we can make this vision a reality.

Let’s do this, PUMC! The best is yet to come.

Director of Music/Choir Director – A Vital Role in Worship Leadership

The Director of Music/Choir Director plays an integral role in enhancing the worship experience at PUMC. This position combines musical expertise with a passion for worship, focusing on leading the Classic Worship Services and overseeing choirs, ensembles, handbells, and other musical groups. The ideal candidate will bring a strong background in both choral and congregational music, capable of inspiring musicians and singers at all skill levels.

Key responsibilities include providing vision and leadership for a diverse music program, selecting hymns and anthems that align with the liturgical calendar, and conducting the choir during services. Additionally, the director will work closely with the pastor to ensure music complements sermon themes and will oversee music events and outreach activities to engage the congregation and the broader community.

The Director of Music/Choir Director will also manage the music ministry’s budget, maintain a well-organized music library, and promote inclusivity by recruiting new members. Proficiency in music software, excellent organizational and communication skills, and the ability to foster a welcoming environment are essential.

This role requires a commitment to both musical excellence and the mission of PUMC, offering a fulfilling opportunity for someone passionate about worship leadership and music ministry.

For more information, please visit pumc.org/job-opportunities.

Nourish Our Neighbors

During this time of year, we are reminded of the importance of giving and helping those in need. One meaningful way to make a difference is by contributing to our food drive. Your generous donations will provide much-needed support to families in our community who are facing food insecurity. Every contribution, no matter how big or small, helps bring hope and nourishment to those who are struggling.

We are collecting non-perishable food items such as canned goods, pasta, rice, and boxed meals. These donations will be distributed to local families, ensuring they have enough food to enjoy during the holiday season and beyond. Your gifts will not only provide sustenance but also show your care and compassion for others.

Giving to the food drive is simple and impactful. You can drop off your donations at the PUMC Donation Depot, located at door 1, or contribute financially to help purchase food.

We encourage you to be part of this heartwarming initiative, sharing the blessings you have with those who need it most. Together, we can make a significant difference in our community and bring comfort to many this season.

Last Saturday Lunch: January 25, 2024

Join us for our Last Saturday Lunch—a heartwarming, community meal filled with great food and even better company, completely free of charge! Happening on the last Saturday of each month, it’s the perfect opportunity to gather with friends and family for a delicious and uplifting experience. Enter through Door 14 on the north side of the Sanctuary, and enjoy lunch served from 11:15 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Got questions? Contact Mary Ann Hamilton at m.a.hamilton2@gmail.com. Come hungry, leave happy—we can’t wait to welcome you!

Men’s Breakfast: January 18, 2024

Plainfield UMC’s men, young men, and guests come together every third Saturday of the month at 8:30 a.m. for an amazing time of food, fellowship, and faith!

We gather in the Worship Annex, so bring your empty stomach, a friend, and your Bible. Get ready to enjoy delicious food, meaningful connections, and the nourishment of God’s word. It’s the perfect way to start your weekend with purpose and community.

We can’t wait to see you there—don’t miss it!

Reach Beyond: Transforming Space, Extending Love – December 29, 2024

After months of prayerful planning, Reach Beyond is ready to help PUMC extend its mission and share God’s love in powerful new ways! This inspiring project will transform our Worship Annex into a warm, welcoming hub for hospitality, outreach, and worship.

We’re making meaningful updates: replacing broken windows, upgrading 25-year-old carpet, modernizing the electrical panel, and adding cozy seating. The refreshed space will also feature a permanent prayer wall, art tracks, and more—a beautiful reflection of God’s love for all.

With a total project cost of $65,000, we’re already over halfway there! As of December 26, 2024, we’ve raised $37,888.66. Every gift brings us closer to our goal.
This revitalized space will bless PUMC and our community, offering new ways to connect, grow, and share the Good News of Christ. Your support matters—together, we can make this vision a reality.


Let’s do this, PUMC! The best is yet to come.

Connect and Grow

Are you looking for a community to connect with and deepen your faith? At PUMC, we understand the importance of fellowship and spiritual growth, which is why we’ve launched a new “Groups” page at pumc.org/groups. This page serves as a hub to help you find a variety of small groups and book studies that meet regularly, offering opportunities to grow in faith alongside others.

Whether you’re just beginning your faith journey or are looking to take the next step, our groups are open to all. You’ll find a supportive and welcoming environment where you can explore God’s word, share life experiences, and build lasting relationships. From Bible studies to prayer groups and fellowship gatherings, there’s something for everyone.

Each group is designed to provide a unique experience, and you can read detailed descriptions on the Groups page to find the one that aligns with your interests and needs. If you’re ready to join, simply contact the group leader for more information about meeting times and locations.

We invite you to explore the new “Groups” page and connect with others who share your faith and passions. Together, we can grow in Christ and support each other on this journey of faith.

Exciting News from PUMC Youth!

This Sunday is packed with opportunities for fellowship, worship, and excitement with PUMC Youth! We’ll kick things off at 9:40 AM in Room 204 with a fun Youth Gathering—don’t miss the donuts and fellowship before worship starts. It’s a great time to connect with friends and get ready for a powerful morning!

At 10 AM, join us in Room 200 for Youth Worship as Brock Kinnamon brings an inspiring message titled The Influencer. We’ll reflect on how the Christmas season brings out the best in us—more kindness, more joy, and more grace. But what if the joy of Christmas doesn’t have to end after the season? This week’s message reminds us that Jesus’s arrival was meant to change everything, forever, and that His love and influence don’t fade after December. Be sure to read John 1:45-46 and John 3:16 ahead of time to dive deeper into this powerful message.

In addition to Sunday Worship, we’ve got some exciting events coming up!

  • Christmas Eve Candle Prep (Dec. 19): Help prepare candles for Christmas Eve services and earn funds for your youth account!
  • Pizza Fundraiser: Materials are available after Youth Worship, so get your order forms and start fundraising for youth events like retreats, camps, and trips.
  • Summer 2025 Trips: We have exciting mission trips, camps, and adventures planned for next summer! Be sure to mark your calendars for the Mission Trip (June 8-14), Camp Adventure (July 6-11), and the Canoe Trip (July 13-20). Registration packets are available by the youth room and Pastor Bob’s office.

Don’t miss this Sunday—there’s something for everyone! Let’s gather together to worship, grow, and look ahead to all the amazing things God has in store for us in the coming year! Questions? Contact Pastor Bob for more details. See you there!