Tag: food

What’s Happening with PUMC Youth? – April 26 at 10:00 am

Youth Worship — Sunday, Apr. 26
10am • Room 200
This Sunday: Forgiveness Takes Time

We live in a world where everything is fast—and when forgiveness doesn’t work instantly, we assume it doesn’t work at all. But the truth is, forgiveness isn’t a quick fix; it’s a process that takes time. Looking at the story of Genesis, we see that real healing often happens slowly, over years—not moments. Jesus even teaches that forgiveness isn’t one decision, but something we return to again and again. The good news is that even if you’re not “over it” yet, you’re not doing it wrong—you’re just in the process of healing.

Serve with the Homeless Ministry

We need two youth volunteers to serve on the first Monday of each month.
The next open date is May 4. Additional future dates are available—grab a friend and sign up in the youth room.

May 22 – 23, Lock in

Get ready for an overnight adventure at the church on May 22–23! We’ll have games, movies, late-night fun, and plenty of time to just hang out together. Make sure to RSVP with Brandon so you don’t miss out!

May 31, Youth Worship

Join us as we celebrate our graduating seniors during NewDay Praise! The youth band, More Than Conquerors, will be leading worship, and our students will be sharing their gifts with the congregation.

June 28- July 2, Epworth Forest

Pastor Abby is directing a high school summer camp at Epworth Forest! Sign up at impact2818.org

Camp Adventure July 5-10

Middle School Summer Camp is approaching! We will be heading up to Camp Adventure on July 5th and return on the 10th. We will be rock climbing, blobbing (iykyk), paint-balling, and more while worshiping our God. You can sign up here impact2818.org/event/impact-camp-camp-adventure-11/ and let Brandon know if you need assistance.

Questions? Contact Brandon at brdenman@pumc.org

What’s Happening with PUMC Youth? – April 19 at 10:00 am

Youth Worship — Sunday, Apr. 19
10am • Room 200
This Sunday: Cancel Debt, Not the Person

Let’s be honest—holding a grudge can feel kinda good sometimes. But what if there’s actually a better way? This week, we’re talking about forgiveness and why it’s way harder (and more important) than it sounds. We’ll dive into what it means to cancel the debt without canceling the person. And we’ll figure out how to move forward when someone hurts us—or when we mess up ourselves.

Read Ahead: 1 Thessalonians 5:15

Bowling April 19

Join us right after church on April 19 as we head to Pinheads for an afternoon of bowling and hanging out together! It’s a great chance to relax, have fun, and build community outside of our usual space. The cost is $5 per person and we’ll return by 2pm. RSVP to Brandon by 4/17 to save your spot!

Serve with the Homeless Ministry

We need two youth volunteers to serve on the first Monday of each month.
The next open date is May 4. Additional future dates are available—grab a friend and sign up in the youth room

Camp Adventure July 5-10

Middle School Summer Camp is approaching! We will be heading up to Camp Adventure on July 5th and return on the 10th. We will be rock climbing, blobbing (iykyk), paint-balling, and more while worshiping our God. You can sign up here impact2818.org/event/impact-camp-camp-adventure-11/ and let Brandon know if you need assistance.

May 22 – 23, Lock in

Get ready for an overnight adventure at the church on May 22–23! We’ll have games, movies, late-night fun, and plenty of time to just hang out together. Make sure to RSVP with Brandon so you don’t miss out!

Questions? Contact Brandon at brdenman@pumc.org.

What’s Happening with PUMC Youth? – Apr. 12 at 10:00 am

Youth Worship — Sunday, Apr. 12
10 a.m. • Room 200
This Sunday: Why Bitterness Isn’t Worth It

Bitterness can start small—feeling left out or hurt—but it can grow and weigh us down over time. This week, we’ll explore how grudges quietly shape our thoughts, emotions, and relationships. Through the life and words of Paul, we’ll see a better way: choosing forgiveness over revenge. It isn’t easy or fair, but letting go is what frees us most. Join us as we take a step toward healing and learn to live lighter.

Read Ahead: 1 Thessalonians 5:15

Serve with the Homeless Ministry

We need two youth volunteers to serve on the first Monday of each month.
The next open date is May 4. Additional future dates are available—grab a friend and sign up in the youth room

Camp Adventure July 5-10

Middle School Summer Camp is approaching! We will be heading up to Camp Adventure on July 5th and return on the 10th. We will be rock climbing, blobbing (iykyk), paint-balling, and more while worshiping our God. You can sign up here impact2818.org/event/impact-camp-camp-adventure-11/ and let Brandon know if you need assistance.

May 22 – 23, Lock in

Get ready for an overnight adventure at the church on May 22–23! We’ll have games, movies, late-night fun, and plenty of time to just hang out together. Make sure to RSVP with Brandon so you don’t miss out!

Questions? Contact Brandon at brdenman@pumc.org.

What’s Happening with PUMC Youth? – Apr. 5 at 10:00 am

Youth Worship — Sunday, Apr. 5
10 a.m. • Room 200
This Sunday: Peace Worth Rising For

This week in youth, we’ll celebrate the resurrection by focusing on when Jesus appeared to his disciples and said, “Peace be with you.” Students will explore how this peace isn’t based on circumstances, but on Jesus’ presence in the midst of fear and uncertainty. We’ll talk about the cost of that peace—and why it was worth it. Together, we’ll reflect on where we need peace and what it means to receive it. A powerful reminder: the resurrection isn’t just about what Jesus did—it’s about what he offers us today.

Read Ahead: John 20:19-23

Serve with the Homeless Ministry

We need two youth volunteers to serve on the first Monday of each month.
The next open date is April 6. Additional future dates are available—grab a friend and sign up in the youth room

Camp Adventure July 5-10

Middle School Summer Camp is approaching! We will be heading up to Camp Adventure on July 5th and return on the 10th. We will be rock climbing, blobbing (iykyk), paint-balling, and more while worshiping our God. You can sign up here impact2818.org/event/impact-camp-camp-adventure-11/ and let Brandon know if you need assistance.

April 3, 2026 @ 7:00 PM
Good Friday Vigil:

Join us for a Good Friday Vigil, a quiet time to remember Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross. Through scripture, prayer and silence, we will reflect on Christ’s suffering and love, and prepare our hearts for the hope of Easter. Come and go as you are able, and share this sacred time of reflection with our church community.

May 22 – 23, Lock in

Get ready for an overnight adventure at the church on May 22–23! We’ll have games, movies, late-night fun, and plenty of time to just hang out together. Make sure to RSVP with Brandon so you don’t miss out!

Camp Adventure July 5-10

Middle School Summer Camp is approaching! We will be heading up to Camp Adventure on July 5th and return on the 10th. We will be rock climbing, blobbing (iykyk), paint-balling, and more while worshiping our God. You can sign up here impact2818.org/event/impact-camp-camp-adventure-11/ and let Brandon know if you need assistance.

Questions? Contact Brandon at brdenman@pumc.org.

What’s Happening with PUMC Youth? – Mar. 29 at 10:00 am

Youth Worship — Sunday, Mar. 29
10 a.m. • Room 200
This Sunday: On The Side of Forgiveness

This week in youth we’ll look at one of the most powerful moments in the life of Jesus—when, even on the cross, he chose forgiveness. Students will explore what it means to stand “on the side of forgiveness” instead of holding onto anger or seeking revenge. Through real-life examples, we’ll talk about how forgiveness can feel difficult but ultimately brings freedom. Together we’ll wrestle with what it looks like to let go of hurt and trust God with our pain. It’s a meaningful conversation about grace, healing, and choosing a better way forward.

Read Ahead: Mark 15:1-15

Serve with the Homeless Ministry

We need two youth volunteers to serve on the first Monday of each month.
The next open date is April 6. Additional future dates are available—grab a friend and sign up in the youth room

Camp Adventure July 5-10

Middle School Summer Camp is approaching! We will be heading up to Camp Adventure on July 5th and return on the 10th. We will be rock climbing, blobbing (iykyk), paint-balling, and more while worshiping our God. You can sign up here impact2818.org/event/impact-camp-camp-adventure-11/ and let Brandon know if you need assistance.

Looking Ahead

  • April 3, 2026 @ 7:00 PM — Good Friday Vigil: Join us for a Good Friday Vigil, a quiet time to remember Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross. Through scripture, prayer and silence, we will reflect on Christ’s suffering and love, and prepare our hearts for the hope of Easter. Come and go as you are able, and share this sacred time of reflection with our church community.

Questions? Contact Brandon at brdenman@pumc.org.

December Outreach & Service Opportunities

From the Missions Committee

December at PUMC is a season when our church family steps forward in meaningful, hands-on ways to share Christ’s love. The Missions Committee invites you to take part in the many opportunities for service and generosity happening throughout the month. You’ll find a full calendar of events at the end of this article to help you stay connected and plan your participation.

As food collection continues all month, every donation helps ensure that families in our community have what they need during the winter season. Thank you for continuing to give so faithfully.

Several ministries will be active throughout December. Our Homeless Ministry will offer multiple Satisfying the Hunger outreach days, preparing and delivering meals to those living in the camps and on the streets. These gatherings provide not only food but also dignity, compassion, and connection.

The Cubs Den Ministry will prepare and deliver meals twice this month, supporting local children and families with steady, reliable help. Each meal prepared makes a real difference.

Angel Tree season brings joyful energy as volunteers sort gifts and gather with families at the annual Christmas party. Meanwhile, our partnership with IPS #34 supports their Christmas Shop, helping families choose needed items with pride and hope.

Regular ministries continue with Second Saturday Lunch and Last Saturday Lunch, offering a warm meal to anyone seeking hospitality.

And throughout December, Alternative Christmas Gifts will once again provide a meaningful way to honor loved ones while directly supporting ministries that serve our neighbors.

Thank you for being part of this important work. As you read through the calendar below, we encourage you to choose one or more opportunities to serve. Together, we extend God’s love in powerful, practical ways.

December Missions Calendar

Food Collection Continues All Month

Dec. 1Satisfying the Hunger (Homeless Ministry)
Dec. 4Cubs Den Meal Prep
Dec. 5Cubs Den Meal Delivery
Dec. 7Angel Tree Gift Sort
Dec. 8Satisfying the Hunger (Homeless Ministry)
Dec. 11–12IPS #34 Christmas Shop
Dec. 13Second Saturday Lunch
Dec. 14Angel Tree Christmas Party
Dec. 14Alternative Christmas Gifts Available
Dec. 15Satisfying the Hunger (Homeless Ministry)
Dec. 18Cubs Den Meal Prep
Dec. 19Cubs Den Meal Delivery
Dec. 21Alternative Christmas Gifts Available
Dec. 22Satisfying the Hunger (Homeless Ministry)
Dec. 27Last Saturday Lunch
Dec. 29Satisfying the Hunger (Homeless Ministry)

Alternative Christmas Gifts also available Dec. 7.

Growing Young

Abby Lietz – Associate Pastor, NewDay Praise

Our Growing Young Team has been busy at work behind the scenes and recently attended a two-day summit in Lapel, Indiana with our Cohort groups to develop next strategies. While this is something we are excited about enacting, it is important to remember Growing Young is a process that takes time to nurture, and if it’s done correctly should never really end.

Thanks to your enthusiasm in this Growing Young movement, 126 of you participated in our recent churchwide survey. Your responses to questions about the six core commitments exhibited by churches who are Growing Young show our church is strong in three areas:Taking Jesus’ Message Seriously, Engaging in Warm Relationships and Being The Best Neighbors. The survey also showed our church scored low when it comes to Empowering Keychain Leadership, Prioritizing Young People and Families Everywhere and Empathizing with Today’s Young People. Our Team believes if we focus on Keychain Leadership and Prioritizing Everywhere we will inherently improve in the area of Empathy.

Keychain Leadership means empowering young people by inviting them into roles and activities that already exist in the church. For example, Veronica is a student at Avon High School who currently helps lead the NewDay Praise Band on a weekly basis. We can do a better job in Keychain Leadership by getting to know our young people – like Veronica – and discovering their interests and talents as we invite them to lead and share their voices. Do you know five young people in our church? Today is a great day to start praying for our young people and making an effort to know them!

Prioritizing Young People and Families Everywhere means allocating attention and resources to young people and families in our congregation and beyond. While we need to be better at reaching and serving all young people, we especially see a need to focus on those whose ages range from their teens to mid thirties. Conversations with our key leaders about how we allocate staff time and responsibilities as well as our financial resources are to come. We plan to dispatch all teams, groups, committees and classes across PUMC toward this effort as well. We hope to start soon with tangible projects such as sending care packages to college-age students, as one example.

As mentioned earlier, by focusing our prayers, attention and energy on the above two commitments we will naturally improve in the realm of showing empathy to today’s young people, which means we will be able to move beyond judging or criticizing and actually understand and act on behalf of younger generations.

We continue to seek your prayers and pray you are as excited as we are to experience the Spirit moving all of us through this process! Our prayer is that we will not just grow young, but become a place where people of all ages thrive and grow closer to Jesus and the living out of his missional call in their lives! Thank you for being part of the journey!

Join Us for the 2025 Plainfield UMC Community Fish Fry!

Since 1945, Plainfield United Methodist Church has proudly hosted one of the town’s most beloved summer traditions: the Community Fish Fry. What began as a simple gathering of church families cooking fried fish to support mission work after World War II has blossomed into a two-day celebration of fellowship, food, and faith that brings the entire Plainfield community together.

A Tradition Rooted in Service

The Fish Fry was originally created as a fundraiser to support the church’s mission outreach—helping those in need both near and far. Nearly 80 years later, that mission remains at the heart of the event. Every plate served helps fund programs that feed the hungry, support youth, and reach communities locally and globally.

When and Where

Mark your calendars for Friday, July 25, and Saturday, July 26 at Plainfield United Methodist Church, located at 600 Simmons Street, Plainfield, Indiana. Guests can enjoy their meals either under the large outdoor tent or through the convenient drive-thru service, accessible from Raymond Street.

Event Hours:

  • Friday, July 25: 11:00 AM–1:00 PM (Drive-Thru only), 4:00 PM–8:00 PM (Tent & Drive-Thru)
  • Saturday, July 26: 11:00 AM–8:00 PM (Tent & Drive-Thru)

Delicious Menu to Enjoy

The Fish Fry menu offers a variety of crowd-pleasing favorites, including:
Our signature fried fish, crispy and golden

  • Tender grilled half chicken and crispy chicken tenders
  • Flavorful BBQ pulled pork
  • Classic homestyle sides such as creamy mac & cheese, crispy French fries, and fresh watermelon
  • Homemade desserts including pies, cakes, and cookies
  • Refreshing beverages like lemonade, iced tea and soda

Whether you’re joining family and friends for a meal under the tent or grabbing a quick and delicious dinner via drive-thru, you’ll be supporting a cause that extends well beyond the table.

Why You Should Come

The PUMC Fish Fry isn’t just about food—it’s about community. It’s a time to connect with neighbors, enjoy great meals, and contribute to vital mission work that impacts lives in Plainfield and across the globe. It’s a chance to be part of a tradition that has been strengthening our community spirit for nearly eight decades.

Bring your appetite and your loved ones! We look forward to seeing you there for great food, good company, and a meaningful cause.

Faith in the Fire: How God Led Us Through Every Storm

John Williams – PUMC Member

I was a miracle baby – I have an elder brother, 12 years apart. My late parents, Emily & Solomon, always introduced me to people saying “he is our miracle son.” My mother was told she could never conceive. She visited different doctors but all said the same. One day, my dad was informed a pastor from Houston, Texas was visiting Pakistan and their church as well. He was known to be a great healer. They were very fortunate to meet him. He prayed over my mum and told her with great faith she would conceive soon. After a few months mum conceived. People around them who knew their situation, including the doctors, were astonished with this great miracle.

The faith of my parents helped them achieve what they were longing for, as prayer without faith lacks power and purpose. It is so important to acknowledge and thank God at all times.

As years passed by, the anticipation of when I would finally find my wife approached. We met in 2005 and married in 2007 by Our Almighty Father who guided us in every setback we had, related to issues with our families in denial due to our different nationalities. My wife is a beautiful and strong woman who has always stood by me and our family in challenging times. came along my daughter in 2009, followed by my son in 2014. God has been so merciful and has blessed us with amazing children; we always ask for His guidance so we may teach them right from wrong & so they choose the path of life by keeping Jesus the center of it.

Our family has faced challenging situations. The worst was when my daughter’s life was threatened. Whilst I was already going through a desert experience, losing my job due to COVID and my wife was on thin ice with her job as well this led to our children not being able to continue schooling; I also lost my mother around this time. Under the circumstances, we completely became hopeless, problems came crashing upon us as all this happened too fast. This was my time to go on my knees and pray, which I did with tears pouring down, and all I had to say is, “Father I have no idea what comes up next for us, you guide and lead us to what you want for us as I have no clue of what I am going to do.”

Within a few months Almighty God navigated a new path for us and it led us to the United States of America.

Our lives took a U-turn as soon as we arrived. The greatest joy for us was to see our children attending school again. But what really stood out most was the church we came upon. Attending PUMC has been a transformative experience. The sense of community and belonging we’ve found here is inspiring. The sermons often provide us with valuable lessons we can apply to our daily lives, fostering a deeper connection with our faith. Overall, our time at this church has not only enriched our spiritual lives but has also welcomed us to many beautiful people and the love they bestowed on us.

I thought to myself when hardships and unmanageable situations occur, why is that the only time I approach God and implore Jesus for help? What I have understood is I should not only go to Him in tough times but also remember Him in the good. By doing this, I comprehended that God never judges no matter what I did or said. God has and will always be by my side under any circumstance. And I want to thank God for all God has done for my family and I. In the end I can say that from the very beginning until now my life along with my family has been nothing but a testimony to Jesus’ unending love for us. He is our living God, our strength and our shield.

Open Your Pantry, Open Your Heart: PUMC’s Spring Food Drive Is Underway

At Plainfield United Methodist Church, our mission is to love God, love people, and serve the world. One powerful way we live out that calling is by caring for our neighbors who are experiencing food insecurity. This spring, we invite you to be part of our Quarterly Food Drive, beginning Sunday, May 4.

Each item donated helps stock the shelves of local food pantries, supporting families across Hendricks County and surrounding areas. Your generosity puts meals on tables and hope in hearts.

How to Take Part

  • Pick Up a Bag: Starting May 4, grocery bags will be available in the main lobby. Take one home and fill it during the week.
  • Return Donations: Bring your filled bag back the following Sunday, or drop it off anytime during the week at the Donation Depot.
  • Give Financially: Monetary gifts are always welcome and will be used to purchase the most-needed food items. Please mark gifts as “Food Drive” in the memo line or select that designation when giving online.

Most-Needed Items

  • Canned vegetables, fruits, soups, and meats
  • Boxed meals, rice, and pasta
  • Peanut butter, cereal, granola bars
  • Baby food and infant formula
  • Shelf-stable milk and juice

Why It Matters

Food insecurity continues to impact families throughout Indiana. In 2022, more than 950,000 Hoosiers, including 1 in 5 children, faced hunger. Even in our own community, many individuals rely on food pantries to get through the week. Your donations help fill the gap and offer relief to those who may not qualify for other forms of assistance.

Be the Church in Action

Jesus calls us to feed the hungry—and we can answer that call together. Whether by filling a bag, writing a check, or saying a prayer, your participation helps share God’s love in a tangible way.

Let’s open our pantries and our hearts to bless others this spring. Thank you for being the hands and feet of Christ in our community.

Together, we can feed hope.