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Refill, Don’t Landfill

Even though our coffee cups are eco-friendly, they still cost money—and they still end up in the landfill. On average, we go through about 100 cups every week here at Plainfield UMC. That adds up quickly, both in cost and in waste.

You can make a simple but meaningful difference. By bringing and reusing your own travel mug on Sunday mornings, you help reduce waste, conserve resources, and care for God’s creation. It’s one small habit that, when shared by many, makes a big impact.

Each time you bring your own mug, you can enter our “Refill, Don’t Landfill” prize drawing! It’s our way of saying thank you for taking part in this creation care effort.

Don’t have a reusable mug? No problem—there are plenty of affordable options available, or consider repurposing one you already have at home.

Together, we can model faithful stewardship in even the simplest things—like how we drink our morning coffee. So grab your favorite mug, fill it up with something warm and wonderful, and know that every sip helps keep our planet a little cleaner and our community a little greener.

Euchre at PUMC

Euchre is back and going strong! Each month, friends gather for an afternoon of fun, fellowship, and a little friendly competition.

Join us on the first Wednesday of every month from 2–4 p.m. in the Worship Annex. Whether you’ve been playing for years or are learning for the first time, you’re invited to join the table.

Never played before? No problem—someone will be happy to teach you. The focus is on connection, laughter, and community, not just keeping score.

Come enjoy good company, a few great hands, and maybe even a few good-natured rivalries. There’s always room for one more!

Financial Summit Update: A Look at Our Church’s Financial Health

Plainfield UMC’s fall Financial Summit offered an encouraging look at the church’s financial health and ministry impact.

Through August, total income reached $722,464, or about 72% of the annual budget—up from $682,614 during the same period last year. This growth reflects the continued generosity of our congregation.

The Finance Committee also reviewed the narrative budget, which shows how giving fuels ministry in areas such as Worship, Adult Discipleship, Mission and Outreach, Facility Care, Children and Youth, and more. Facility Care represents the largest portion of the budget at 28%, followed by Worship at 19%.

Expenses remain under budget, with most ministry areas spending just over half of their annual allocations. The church also maintains 49 designated funds totaling $183,308, supporting projects like Youth Missions, Homeless and Hungry Ministries, and Reach Beyond facility improvements.

The Board of Trustees shared a long-range maintenance plan through 2060, noting the need for ongoing funding to sustain facilities and address unplanned repairs such as termite treatment and bat eradication.

We’re grateful for the faithful giving that makes ministry possible and for everyone who supports Plainfield UMC’s mission to make a difference for Christ every day.

Free community lunches—twice a month

Plainfield UMC offers two free lunch opportunities each month to serve our community with good food and warm hospitality:

  • Second Saturday Carryout Lunch — Every second Saturday. Pick up a hot, ready-to-go meal from 11 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at Door 14.
  • Last Saturday Community Lunch — Every last Saturday. Enjoy a sit-down meal and friendly conversation from 11:15 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at Door 14.

Know someone who could use a meal or a little extra care? Invite them to join—or contact Mary Ann Hamilton at m.a.hamilton2@gmail.com.

All are welcome. No cost. No catch. Just kindness and a good meal.

Men’s Breakfast – Food, Fellowship, and Faith

Each month, Plainfield UMC’s men, young men, and guests come together for something more than just a meal—we gather for connection, encouragement, and spiritual growth.
The Men’s Breakfast meets on the third Saturday of each month at 8:30 a.m. in the Worship Annex, and you’re invited to be part of it.

Enjoy a hearty breakfast, uplifting conversation, and time spent in Scripture as we build relationships and strengthen our faith together. Whether you’ve been coming for years or this is your first time, you’ll find a welcoming space to grow in your walk with God and one another.
Bring your Bible, bring a friend, and come hungry—not only for food, but for fellowship and the Word of God. Let this monthly gathering nourish both body and spirit, reminding us that we’re not on this journey alone.

All are welcome—just as you are.

Women’s Ministries at PUMC: Connection, Growth, and Grace

At Plainfield United Methodist Church, women of all ages are invited to join United Women in Faith Circles—small groups that focus on faith, fellowship, and service. Circles provide a welcoming place to study the Bible, pray together, build lasting friendships, and take part in mission projects that support both our church family and the wider community.

Rooted in a long Methodist tradition of women serving with courage and compassion, these groups are designed to help participants grow spiritually while making a positive impact. Whether you are seeking deeper connection, opportunities to serve, or simply a place to belong, PUMC’s Women’s Circles offer a warm and supportive community.

Take the next step—visit pumc.org/women, explore the Circle opportunities, and join a group where you can connect, grow, and serve with grace.

Serve with Family Promise Meals: Nov. 2–8, 2025

Plainfield UMC will again provide meals for families in the Family Promise program Nov. 2–8. This ministry offers food and encouragement to families in transition as they work toward stable housing.

You can help by preparing or delivering a meal during our hosting week. It’s a simple, meaningful way to share Christ’s love and support families in need right here in our community.

If you’re interested in serving or want more details, contact:
Kathy Karazsia at karazsia1@aol.com

What’s Happening with PUMC Youth?

Sunday, Oct. 19, 2025

Youth Worship at 10 a.m. in Room 200
This Sunday: Know Your Worth!

This week we’ll talk about how quickly things can go from great to awful—like that song you loved until it got overplayed! We sometimes treat ourselves the same way—feeling amazing one minute and “ugh” the next. But Jesus reminds us in the story of the lost sheep that our worth never changes. You’re already loved and enough—and life gets lighter when you believe it!

Read Ahead: Luke 15:1–7

Serve with the PUMC Homeless Ministry

We need two youth volunteers to serve on the first Monday of each month. The next open date is Nov. 3, and there are several future dates available. Grab a friend and sign up by the Youth Room.

Mark Your Calendar

  • Sunday, Oct. 26, 7 p.m. – Youth Halloween Party in the Youth Rooms. Costume contest, games, and food! Let Brandon know if you’re coming and if you’d like to bring something.
  • Nov. 7–9, 2025 – Fall Retreat Weekend at Camp Indicoso. A favorite and meaningful weekend for PUMC Youth! Flyers are available outside the Youth Worship Room. Adults interested in chaperoning should contact Brandon. RSVP deadline: Oct. 20.

Coming Soon

Weekly High School Bible Study – Brandon hopes to continue the weekly Bible studies Pastor Bob started. Stay tuned for start date details, and reach out to Brandon with your thoughts or questions.

Questions? Contact Brandon at brdenman@pumc.org.

What’s Happening with PUMC Youth? Sunday, Oct. 12

Sunday, Oct. 12 – Youth Worship
10 a.m. • Room 200
Fostering for Faith

Guest speaker Wendy Denman will share how she shows God’s love to children in need through fostering.
Read ahead: Psalm 68:5-6 & Matthew 25:40.

Serve with the Homeless Ministry

Two youth volunteers are needed on the first Monday of each month. The next open date is Oct. 6. Sign up by the youth room!

PUMC Youth Cookbook

Kids@PUMC are creating a cookbook and want your favorite family recipes! We’re also looking for someone to design the cover. Let Brandon know if you’d like to help.

Mark Your Calendar

  • Oct. 26, 7 p.m. – Halloween Party
    Costume contest, games, and food in the Youth Rooms. Let Brandon know if you’re coming or bringing snacks.
  • Nov. 7–9 – Fall Retreat at Camp Indicoso
    A favorite weekend for fun and faith. Flyers are outside the Youth Worship Room. Adults may contact Brandon to chaperone. RSVP by Oct. 20.

High School Bible Study

Weekly gatherings are coming soon! Stay tuned for dates and details.
Questions? Contact Brandon Denman at brdenman@pumc.org.