Blog

Shape Young Lives as Director of Kids@PUMC

The Director of Kids@PUMC is an exciting, full-time, year-round position that plays a vital role in shaping the future of our youngest community members. This role oversees the day-to-day operations of Plainfield United Methodist Church’s vibrant Childcare, Preschool, and Before & After-School programs, ensuring a safe, nurturing, and faith-filled environment for children to grow and thrive. Your work will not only impact the lives of these children but also contribute to the growth and well-being of our community.

As Director, you will have the opportunity to work closely with a dedicated team of educators and caregivers. Together, you will build meaningful relationships with families, and develop programs that inspire children to learn, play, and discover their God-given potential. You’ll be at the heart of creating a space where children receive excellent care and education and experience the love of Christ every day.

If you are passionate about early childhood education, driven to lead a dynamic ministry, and excited about impacting young lives, this role offers a perfect fit for you! It’s not just a job, but a chance to grow both personally and professionally as you make a difference in the lives of children.

Visit pumc.org/job-opportunities for the full job description and to apply for this excellent opportunity.

Plan, Create, and Serve: United Women in Faith’s October Circle Meetings

Our church’s United Women in Faith has three active circles, each committed to supporting women and children locally and globally. These groups warmly welcome all women, regardless of background or experience, to attend their meetings and events, ensuring everyone feels valued and included.

On October 8 at 2:00 p.m. in Clayton Hall, the Rachel Circle will host a special presentation by Christie Wright, showcasing the artwork she has contributed around our church. We also hope she’ll share insights from her experience with the Olympics! For more information, contact Jane Meyer.

Later that evening, at 7:00 p.m. in the Koinonia Room, the Hope Circle will gather to prepare for their Trunk or Treat event and assemble Birthday Kits for families at School 34. All are welcome to participate. Contact Jeanne Milligan for details.

The Mary Martha Circle will meet on October 16 at 2:00 p.m. in the Wesley Room to plan their activities for the upcoming year, which include community outreach programs, charity events, and spiritual growth sessions. For more information, contact Martha Roath.
Join us for these meaningful gatherings as we work together to make a significant difference in the lives of women, inspiring and motivating each other along the way!

Thank You from The Missions Committee!

Thank you so much for all the school supplies and needed clothing you have generously provided for the students of Plainfield! The requests from the school counselors have been filled at Brentwood, Central, Clark’s Creek, Guilford, Van Buren, and Plainfield Middle School. Thank you also for your monetary donations of computer headsets for the elementary schools! This need is so crucial because the students have weekly testing in reading on the computer, math practice weekly on the computer, and all state testing is on the computer. The silence the over-the-ear headset gives the child enables them to concentrate and do their best work. Thank you so much!!

Once again, we want to express our heartfelt gratitude for your generous gifts to our children. Your support is invaluable and greatly appreciated. Thank you!

CROP Walk 2024: October 6, 2024

Exciting news from the Plainfield Federation of Churches about this year’s CROP Walk! For 2024, we are continuing our mission to raise money and awareness to alleviate hunger both globally and locally. In addition, for the second year in a row, we are proud to partner with Faith & Blue, a local initiative that connects communities with police officers whose faith guides their service.

On Sunday, October 6, we’ll gather at Talon Park Pavilion, just north of the Aquatic Center, for a 3-mile walk. The walk begins at 2:00 p.m., but please arrive by 1:30 p.m. for registration and a group photo. Plainfield Chief of Police Kyle Prewitt will join us on the walk, along with several officers. Afterward, we’ll head back to Talon Park for hot dogs, snacks, and cookies.

If you’re unable to walk the full 3 miles, you are welcome to walk whatever distance you’re comfortable with. Even if you can’t walk at all, you’re still invited to come, enjoy some refreshments, and connect with Chief Prewitt and the officers as they share how their faith impacts their service to the community

If you cannot attend, donations are still encouraged! You can make a check payable to CWS/CROP. For more information, see CROP representative Mary Geible or visit the CROP Walk table in the main lobby on September 22, 29, and October 6. Let’s make this the best year yet for this important ministry!

PUMC Youth 13th Annual Online Auction: Thank you!

A heartfelt thank you to everyone who contributed to the success of the 13th Annual PUMC Youth Online Auction! Whether you helped by donating items, bidding on the amazing offerings, or simply spreading the word, your support has made a lasting impact on the youth of our church.

This year’s auction was filled with exciting items, all generously donated by members of our community, and we couldn’t have done it without your help. Your contributions—both big and small—made this event special and successful. To everyone who placed a bid, your participation not only brought joy and excitement to the auction but also played a key role in raising vital funds for our youth ministry programs.

Special thanks to our dedicated volunteers who worked tirelessly behind the scenes to organize, promote, and run the auction. Your time and energy are greatly appreciated, and the success of this event is a testament to your hard work and dedication.

Because of you, the funds raised will help provide meaningful experiences, like mission trips, retreats, and other youth activities, where our young people can grow in their faith and build lasting relationships. Thank you for making a difference in their lives and for being part of a community that truly cares.

We are blessed by your generosity and are grateful for your continued support!

Family Promise Meals: September 15-21, 2024

PUMC is excited to continue supporting Family Promise by providing meals for families from September 15-21. The families are currently staying at the shelter house, Almost Home (7233 E. County Road 300 S., Plainfield), where meals are served family-style. Supper is served at 6 p.m., but you can drop off meals earlier if needed.

We encourage you to not only provide a meal but to stay and share it with the families! It’s a wonderful opportunity to connect with them and share in fellowship.

To sign up to provide a meal for this hosting week, please contact Mary Raver at mraver@pumc.org. Whether you cook from home or order something special, your contribution will make a meaningful impact on these families as they work toward stability.

Looking ahead, PUMC will also be providing meals for Family Promise in November. Stay tuned for more details, and thank you for continuing to serve and uplift our community through this important ministry!

What’s Happening with PUMC Youth?

September 5, 2024

We’re thrilled to share the exciting lineup of events and opportunities for the PUMC Youth! Get ready for some thrilling experiences designed for our middle and high school students.

TAS Resumes on September 5, 2024

The Thursdays After School (TAS) program for middle schoolers starts again! Every Thursday from 3:30 to 5:00 PM, students are invited to the church for snacks, fun with friends, games, and a Bible-based discussion led by Pastor Bob. If your students are interested, sign them up by the youth room or text Pastor Bob so he knows they’ll be there.

Sunday, September 8, 2024 – Youth Worship

Start your Sunday with a Youth Gathering at 9:40 AM in Room 204 with donuts and fellowship, followed by Youth Worship at 10:00 AM in Room 200. This Sunday’s message, “God Created You to Shine,” is a thought-provoking exploration of how followers of Jesus can stand out in the world by living in a way that reflects God’s love and light. Read ahead with Philippians 2:15, 1 John 1:5, and Matthew 5:14-16 to prepare.

13th Annual PUMC Youth Online Auction

The 13th Annual PUMC Youth Online Auction is in full swing! This is a great opportunity to support the youth while snagging some great items. Bidding is happening now at biddingforgood.com/pumcyouth. Don’t miss out!

Gather & Grill – All-Church Fall Kick-Off Cookout & Pitch-In

Join us for the annual fall tradition on Sunday, September 8, from 11:30 AM to 1:30 PM in Wesley Woods. The PUMC Youth and the Hospitality & Outreach Committee will provide burgers, brats, hot dogs, and drinks. Please bring a salad, side dish, or dessert to share. This is a wonderful opportunity to connect with the church community. Sign-up is available online at pumc.org/gatherandgrill or at the various sign-up locations throughout the church. Volunteers are needed for grilling and setting up games, so contact Pastor Bob if you can help.

Sunday Morning Treats

Before worship each Sunday, youth gather in the second-floor Youth Lounge for snacks and fellowship. This time is not just about treats, but also about building a sense of community and sharing our faith journeys. If you’d like to volunteer for treats, sign up by the youth rooms or text Pastor Bob to see the open dates.

Connection Point – Wednesdays at 6 PM

High school boys meet weekly at Pastor Bob’s house for dinner, Bible study, and conversations on various topics. This is a great mid-week connection and an opportunity for deeper fellowship.

Serve with the PUMC Homeless Ministry

Youth are encouraged to get involved with PUMC’s Homeless Ministry. Sign up by the youth room or text Pastor Bob for more information on serving opportunities. Adults are also invited to join and support the youth in this impactful ministry.

Looking Ahead: Fall Retreat at Camp Indicoso – November 1-3, 2024

Mark your calendars for the Fall Retreat Weekend at Camp Indicoso! This is a favorite annual event for both middle and high school students. Flyers with more details are available in the youth room or Pastor Bob’s office.

Stay connected, and don’t miss out on these awesome opportunities to grow in faith and fellowship!

Questions? Contact Pastor Bob at bpreusch@pumc.org.

What’s Happening with PUMC Youth?

August 29, 2024

The 13th Annual PUMC Youth Online Auction Starts this Friday! 

Bidding began August 23, 2024, at 8:00 a.m. You can go to www.biddingforgood.com/pumcyouth and check out all the PUMC online auction items. Your participation in the bidding fun is not just about winning items, it’s about supporting our youth group and the activities we organize. Every bid you make makes a difference!

Register your information or use your account info from last year to bid. Participating in the bidding fun is as easy as:

  • Click on “Register to Bid” at the top of the page,
  • Enter your name, address, and other information,
  • Create a username and password.

Spread the word and tell your friends and family about the PUMC Youth online auction. Your support, no matter how big or small, makes a significant difference to our youth group!

Gather & Grill Sunday, September 8, 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m.

All Church Fall Kick-Off Cookout & Pitch-in Sun, September 8, 2024 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. In Wesley Woods (behind the church) following Sunday worship. Everyone is welcome to join us for this fall Youth Group tradition. The PUMC Youth and the PUMC Hospitality & Outreach Committee are providing burgers, brats, hot dogs, and drinks.  Please bring a salad, side dish, or dessert to share if you can! We need a few adults to help with grilling and some youth to help set up the games. Please let Bob know if you are willing to volunteer:  bpreusch@pumc.org or 317-839-2319, ext. 230.

Sunday Morning Treats 

Youth meets for fellowship in the second-floor Youth Lounge before worship every Sunday. It’s a time of fun, laughter, and good company. We depend on volunteers to provide donuts, chocolate milk, juice, or similar morning snacks for this gathering time. If you are willing to provide for a Sunday or two, sign up by the second-floor youth rooms or text Bob for the open dates.

Looking Ahead:

Connection Point resumes on September 4. The High School boys’ small group meets at Pastor Bob’s house at 6 p.m. on Wednesdays for dinner, Bible study, and discussion on various topics.

Confirmation Class 2025 Begins September 15 at 4:30 p.m.

It is for students in the 6th through 8th grades. Information about the Confirmation program will be mailed in early August, and parents of eligible students should contact Pastor Bob to make sure they’re on the mailing list.  

TAS resumes on September 5, 2024

TAS means “Thursdays After School” and was a popular PUMC Youth program until COVID made us shut it down. This program for middle school students meets at the church on Thursdays from 3:30 to 5 p.m. At TAS, students are provided a vitally crucial after-school snack, a time to hang out with friends, games, and a Bible-based discussion. TAS will be led by Pastor Bob. If you are an interested middle schooler, sign up by the youth room, and we will send you more information as our start date draws near.

November 1-3, 2024 Fall Retreat Weekend at Camp Indicoso. 

Middle and High School youth are invited to this favorite and meaningful weekend event for our youth. Detailed flyers will be available in late August. Adults interested in chaperoning the retreat should contact Bob asap.

Questions? Contact Pastor Bob at bpreusch@pumc.org or call 317-839-2319, ext. 230