October 2018 Circuit Rider

The Gratitude Path

Trailhead #1

We Have It Good

Trailhead #2

God Gave It to Us

Trailhead #3

Glory to God!

Trailhead #4

Being a Blessing

Pastor Charlie Wilfong Senior Pastor, cwilfong@pumc.org

The Gratitude Path

Hikers know how it works. The trail is long, so you pace yourself and secure all the necessary provisions. The map shows the route and the destination.

There is safety in numbers. You find your bearings with a compass. There will be some special scenery and stops along the way.

Following Jesus is a journey.

The first Jesus-followers were not called “Christians” for a number of years. At first, they were called people of “The Way.” That evokes the notion of a path—a hike—if you will. As followers of Jesus, we are progressing along a path that will lead to our final destination—living and loving like Jesus.

One key and critical quality of Jesusfollowers is a sense of thankfulness.

We think we know about gratitude because we have a national holiday for it—Thanksgiving. But what does the Bible have to say about the authentic quality of gratitude that should be manifest in faithful followers of Jesus?

2

Gratitude is key for followers of Jesus.

The path to gratitude is the path to knowing God, proclaiming God, and seeing God. It’s a path to Jesus.

Through our worship series, “The Gratitude Path,” we will discover the trail our hearts must travel in order to arrive at the destination of genuine biblical gratitude. Just like all the Christian virtues, gratitude is something that we learn—that develops in our awareness, our sensitivities, and our conduct.

Worship Series We will consider the basic steps of this hike on the pathway to gratitude as follows: September 30: We Have It Good October 7: God Gave It to Us October 14: Glory to God! October 21: Be a Blessing Church-wide Study Along with this worship series, we are offering the church-wide study of Dr. Kent Millard’s book, The Gratitude pumc.org

Path. He is currently serving as the President of United Theological Seminary in Dayton, Ohio and is a retired United Methodist Pastor who served St. Luke’s UMC in Indianapolis.

Details on this study can be found in this edition of the Circuit Rider. I encourage you to read the book and discuss it in one of the small groups that are available.

Consecration Sunday, October 28 Dr. Millard will also be our guest preacher on Consecration Sunday, October 28. More information on that special Sunday is available in this edition of the Circuit Rider. I invite you to make plans now to attend worship that Sunday to hear Dr. Millard’s message.

The Gratitude Path will be a fun, fulfilling, and enlightening journey.

Lace up your hiking boots and let’s go!

Go in peace. Go with God. And be well.

Shalom,

The Plainfield UMC App Available in the App Stores Download today at

pumc.link/getapp

Serving the Children of Plainfield

600 Simmons Street Plainfield, Indiana 46168-2264 pumc.org • 317.839.2319 Sundays Classic Worship: 8:45 & 10:00 a.m.

Preaching Chapel: 11:15 a.m.

NewDay Praise Worship: 8:45 & 10:00 a.m.

Youth Worship (grades 6-12): 10:00 a.m.

Bible Explorers (grades K-5): 10:00 a.m.

Office Hours: 8:30a.m. – 3:30p.m. (M–F)

Table of Contents The Gratitude Path 2 Classic Worship 4 Don't Miss It 5 KIDS@PUMC 7 Worship Arts News 8 Music Staff Updates & News 9 Beautiful October 9 The Winds of Life 10 Transforming for Tomorrow 11 The Gratitude Path 12 Angel Tree Ministry 14 Mission News 15 Rachel Circle News 18 Encore Senior Ministry 19 Church Council Report 20 Generosity Report 21 Notes from the Congregation 22 3

OCTOBER CLASSIC WORSHIP Classic Worship – 8:45 and 10:00 a.m. in the Sanctuary In October Classic Worship, NewDay Praise Worship, KIDS@ PUMC, and small groups throughout the church will feature “The Gratitude Path,” a series based on the book of the same title by Rev. Kent Millard.

Hikers know how it works. The trail is long, so you pace yourself and secure all the necessary provisions.

The map shows the route and the destination. You find your bearings with a compass.

The first Jesus-followers were not called “Christians” for a number of years. At first, they were called people of “The Way”. That evokes the notion of a path—a hike—if you will. As followers of Jesus, we are progressing along a path that will lead to our final destination—living and loving like Jesus.

One key and critical quality of Jesus-followers is a sense

4

of thankfulness. We think we know about gratitude because we have a national holiday for it— Thanksgiving. But what does the Bible have to say about the authentic quality of gratitude that should be manifest in faithful followers of Jesus? The path to gratitude is the path to knowing God, proclaiming God, and seeing God. It’s a path to Jesus. Through the series, “The Gratitude Path,” we will discover the trail our hearts must travel in order to arrive at the destination of genuine biblical gratitude. Lace up your hiking boots and let’s go!

Oct 7 Celebration of Holy Communion Oct 28 Consecration Sunday with Guest Speaker, Rev. Kent Millard, author of The Gratitude Path (Worship at regular times this Sunday: 8:45 and 10:00 a.m. in both the Sanctuary and the Worship Annex.)

pumc.org

Pastor Elizabeth Gilbert Associate Pastor, egilbert@pumc.org

Don’t Miss It!

I think it was Ferris Bueller in the movie “Ferris Bueller’s Day Off” who said, “Life moves pretty fast. If you don’t stop and look around once in a while, you could miss it.”

That long-awaited vacation flew by much too quickly. In fact, all of summer was just a blur. And we’re already thinking about Halloween, Thanksgiving, and Christmas! This year seemed to move even faster than the previous, and yes, it feels like I missed much of it. I should have stopped to look around a little more often.

Many an author and expert suggest that practicing gratitude is one way to experience a more fulfilling and meaningful life. Before we rush into and through the season of “Hallo-thanksmas,” we might find it helpful to slow down and look around us a little more often. Maybe try one or more these suggestions to experience more of life at a more intentional pace….

Appreciate everything - make a list of everything large and small for which you are grateful.

Give at least one compliment daily, whether directly to a person or by Serving the Children of Plainfield

sharing your appreciation of something ("I love how quiet it is in the morning, don’t you?").

Vow to not complain, criticize, or gossip for a week. If you slip, rally your willpower and keep going. Notice how much energy you were spending on negative thoughts.

Notice your day-to-day world from a point of gratitude and be amazed at all the goodness we take for granted.

And in NewDay Praise Worship in October, as well as in Classic Worship, KIDS@PUMC, and many small groups, we’ll explore more fully the power that biblical gratitude has to change our perspective and grow our faith. More than bringing emotional well-being, the biblical practice of gratitude grows us in grace and draws us into God’s presence.

Through “The Gratitude Path” series we’ll discover a deeper understanding of what it means to be a grateful people.

In NewDay Praise Worship, like all of PUMC’s worship experiences, we seek to create a space and an experience where people who don’t know Jesus can meet him, those who do know Jesus can grow Continued on page 6 5

Continued from page 5 in that relationship, and everyone can find a warm welcome and a safe place to ask questions and talk about faith.

Invite a friend to join you this month for the journey down The Gratitude Path – it’s more fun to travel together!

Blessings,

Financial Administrator Hired

PUMC Weekday Children’s Program Are Back in Session!

Classes are back in session in PUMC’s weekday children’s programs! We are glad to welcome and serve nearly 150 children, ages 1-grade 5, throughout each week. If you’d like to know more about these programs at PUMC, please contact Directors Sigrid Schuld (age 1-PreK) at sschuld@pumc.org or Carissa Wooden (grades k-5) at cwooden@ pumc.org or phone the church office at 317.839.2319.

PUMC is pleased to welcome PUMC member Rebecca Blackwelder as Financial Administrator, effective October 1. She is assuming the position that Brenda Barnett is vacating. She brings a finance background, love for this church, and enthusiasm for her role as Financial Administrator. Rebecca will be working part-time and can be reached at rblackwelder@pumc. org. Thank you for making Rebecca feel welcome and for showing your appreciation for Brenda's ministry and service. Questions may be directed to Staff Parish Chair Bob Milligan at staffparish@pumc.org.

The Plainfield UMC App Available in the App Stores Download today at

pumc.link/getapp

6

pumc.org

Jacob Tipantasig-Wolverton

Director Worship Arts | Director Children’s Ministry, jwolverton@pumc.org

KIDS@PUMC

PUMC is excited to launch into several changes in the Children's Ministry. You might have noticed that the name Bible Explorers has changed to KIDS@PUMC. In an effort to truly identify the children's ministry at PUMC, branding & names are very important. Although our children's ministry will continue to dive deep into the Word of God, we wanted to make sure that the community knows exactly what is available for their children if they come for a visit. We have been exploring curriculum written

by ThinkOrange which contains the Curriculum 252. Our goal is effectively minister to our children throughout the entire week. Through social media we are able to let parents & community members continue to study the valuable lessons that are being taught on a Sunday morning.

In addition families receive weekly devotions called Parent Cue to help lead their families through times of devotions each evening.

Over these past several weeks, the children have been learning about Friendship.

Serving the Children of Plainfield

“A friend loves at all times. They are there to help when trouble comes.”

Proverbs 17:17 (NIRV) As they have been diving deeper in God's love, they have been challenged to use their words & actions to show others that they care. In a world that is often times dark & dismal, KIDS@PUMC calls our kids to be a source of encouragement. The biblical command to treat others the way you want to be treated, seems to be a fleeting idea. Today we must challenge not only our kids, but ourselves to put others before ourselves, and show them the love of Christ. Our mission here at PUMC is serving the children of Plainfield.

How are you being of service to the children in our community? Be a friend to those in need, and let God's love flow through you.

To participate or learn more contact Drama Ministry Director Nancy Montgomery at nmontgomery@pumc. org.

7

Worship Arts News In a world that is ever changing and growing to meet the demands of worshipers in the 21st century, ministry opportunities must continue to expand and become more diverse. Today's worshipers experience the word through various platforms: multi-media, music, art, spoken word, silence, drama. As we look towards the future for the Worship Arts Ministry at PUMC, we are excited to launch a Drama Ministry that is open to all ages & skill levels. So why should we launch a drama ministry?

1. God Used Drama - In Ezekiel 12:1-6, God commanded Ezekiel to dramatize the life of a captive in order to show Israel what would soon happen to them if they did not change their ways.

2. Drama engages the senses - be honest, how many can remember the sermon that one of the pastors preached three weeks ago? It was an excellent sermon, but perhaps the verbal sermon type does not work for you, perhaps the word even got lost for you. Ministry 8

through drama adds the visual dimension that engages our sense of sight along with our sense of hearing.

3. Drama builds unity - So many ministries are separated by age (senior, adult and youth) or gender (male and female) that there are very few opportunities for everyone to minister together. Drama Ministry is a great ministry for entire families to participate together: children, parents, grandparents and friends. No special talent is needed, just a willingness to perform & minister (or help with the production).

As we look towards this year's annual Charge Conference (PUMC’s annual business meeting), we very much would like to offer a dramatized production to accompany the worship theme. Would you prayerfully consider joining a new ministry that will help bring our discipleship with Christ closer to God, and help engage worshipers in the spoken word being delivered?

pumc.org

Beautiful October Marge Welker

Music Staff Updates and News PUMC is pleased to welcome Geneva Stonecipher-Overbaugh as Interim Staff Accompanist (during Organ Scholar Jaime Carini’s absence, please see below). Mrs. Overbaugh is currently pursuing a master’s degree in organ performance at the IU Jacob’s School of Music.

Mrs. Overbaugh has participated in events such as the InterHarmony Music Festival in Italy, Sacred Music Intensive Workshop, and Montreat Music Festival. Mrs. Overbaugh has served as church music intern at First Presbyterian Church in Athens, GA, and Music Director and Organist at Commerce Presbyterian Church, GA. PUMC Organ Scholar Jaime Carini has been granted leave from her staff responsibilities for the fall semester (through December 2018) to manage some health concerns. Cards and well wishes may be sent to: Jaime Carini PO Box 1294 Catoosa, OK 74015 Serving the Children of Plainfield

We probably would not be in this great country if it were not for a strong willed young man named Christopher Columbus. He set off to find a faster route to India but found the “new land” instead. This was in October of 1492. Columbus was a man who had tremendous faith and determination. He was bound to finish what he started. All he could say was, “Sail On, Sail On”.

I think October is the most beautiful month of the year. Autumn, the time of the year where you see a rainbow of colors in the leaves as they turn, gold, orange, yellow, brown, or going on hay rides thru the pumpkin patch.

Roast hot dogs and marshmallows on the open fire. Also around the fire we can sing songs to our Heavenly Father. There is a peacefulness and gentleness in the air. Children laughing and playing in the rustling leaves. As we stroll further into the woods, we see many unique wild flowers. Then the stillness of God's creation over whelms us – “Be still and know that I am God”. Be still and be aware of what great things God has given us, especially the autumn season.

9

The Winds of Life The following, written by PUMC member Rick Jones, was published recently in the Upper Room Daily Devotional. Thank you to Rick for sharing his story of faith.

I am an assistant director of a summer camp in Wisconsin, where my daughter Emily taught sailing for a couple of years. One day I went to the lake to watch her sail with the campers. When I arrived, Emily’s boat was about two miles south of the beach where I sat. I watched my daughter guide the boat against the wind from one side of the lake to the other until she landed her boat right where I was sitting.

Watching Emily sail that day helped Rick and Emily Jones me see how living can be similar to sailing a boat. We cannot control the winds of life that blow against us, but we can adjust our response to difficult situations just as sailors adjust their sails and rudder to arrive at their destination. Fortunately, as Christians, we have a navigator, the Holy Spirit, who is always there to guide us.

Emily’s voyage that day was not long. But when sailing across large bodies of water, sailors use navigational charts to show them where they should sail and what they need to be looking out for. Our navigational chart is the Bible. As we grow in wisdom through scripture we become better sailors who can navigate through all the winds of life that blow our way.

I will instruct you and teach you the way you should go; I will counsel you with my eye upon you. - Psalm 32:8 (NRSV) Today's Reading Isaiah 49:8-10 Tought for the Day The Holy Spirit helps me navigate the winds of life.

Prayer Focus Summer camp staff Today's Prayer Heavenly Father, thank you for your Holy Spirit, our guide who helps us navigate our lives. Amen.

10

pumc.org

Transforming for Tomorrow Is Making Space(s)!

Transforming for Tomorrow’s first project is nearing completion as of this writing. The existing parking lot is being repaired and resurfaced to create an attractive, safe, and servicable entry and first impression for PUMC. Thanks to everyone who has made this possible.

If you’ve donated or pledged funds, served on any T4T committee, helped paint the parking lot in celebration, prayed for this initiative or otherwise contributed to this project, “Thank you!”

You are helping to make space(s) for friends, family, and guests here at PUMC so they they can all experience the grace and love of Jesus in this place.

And we also celebrate gifts and pledges that total more than $400,000! Visit the progress boards displayed around the building to see this milestone represented by the changing photo on the progress board. And check back often for more updates!

Transforming for Tomorrow is a 5-year initiative of PUMC to ensure a person’s experience with PUMC’s building matches our words of grace and welcome. Capital projects to be completed during this time include repair and resurfacing of the existing parking lot, a new electronic exterior sign, kitchen renovation, updated restrooms, and so much more. With these upgrades and improvements PUMC will be able to continue vibrant and vital ministry well in to the future with a safe, attractive facility that will welcome and serve many people and families.

Thank you for your prayerful, faithful, generous support of this ministry and Transforming for Tomorrow! Learn more at transforming4tomorrow.org.

Serving the Children of Plainfield

11

Consecration Sunday Is Coming October 28 Congregations that approach financial stewardship from a biblical perspective do not view the money Christians give to their church merely as a way to pay its bills. Rather, such congregations see financial contributions as a way to help people grow spiritually in their relationship with God by supporting their church’s mission and ministry with a percentage of their incomes. To this end, PUMC’s Finance Committee has selected the New Consecration Sunday Stewardship Program again this year as a way to teach the biblical and spiritual principles of generous giving in our stewardship education emphasis this year.

New Consecration Sunday is based 12

on the biblical philosophy of the need of the giver to give for his or her own spiritual development, rather than on the need of the church to receive. Instead of treating people like members of a social club who should pay dues, we will treat people like followers of Jesus Christ who want to give unselfishly as an act of discipleship. New Consecration Sunday encourages people toward proportionate and systematic giving in response to the question, “What percentage of my income is God calling me to give?”

During morning worship on Consecration Sunday, October 28, we are asking attendees and members to pumc.org

Tra We ilhea

Hav d #1 eI tG

ood

Consecration Sunday Worship and Celebration October 28, 2018

Tra Glo ilhea

8:45 and 10:00 a.m. in both Classic Sanctuary Worship & NewDay Praise Worship Childcare, Children’s Activities, and Continental Breakfast Provided T

ry d #3 to God !

make their financial commitments to the church’s missionary, benevolent, and educational ministries in this community and around the world.

Every attendee and member who completes an Estimate of Giving Card does so voluntarily by attending morning worship on Consecration Sunday. We urge people to attend who feel strongly opposed to completing a card. The procedure is done in such a way that no one feels personal embarrassment if he or she chooses not to fill out a card.

During morning worship our guest leader, Rev. Kent Millard, author of The Gratitude Path, will conduct a brief period of instruction and inspiration, climaxed by members making their commitments as a confidential act of worship.

Serving the Children of Plainfield

r

Godailhea Gav d #2 eI tt

oU

s

We encourage you to participate in worship on Consecration Sunday.

Worship will be according to PUMC’s usual worship schedule of 8:45 and 10:00 a.m. in both Classic Sanctuary Worship and NewDay Praise Worship. Persons from whom PUMC does not receive a pledge card response in worship on that Sunday will receive one the mail in the days following. The Consecration Sunday Team led by Mike Rohrer will make every effort to plan informative and inspiring worship events that Sunday. Thanks in advance for your enthusiastic participation in Consecration Sunday events.

Nikki Shoultz Church Council Chair council@pumc.org 13

Angel Tree Mission PUMC has for many years supported Angel Tree Prison Ministry by providing gifts, cookies, and Bibles for children of people who are incarcerated and would be unable to get gifts for their children. Members of the congregation choose a child from the "Angel Tree" in the Main Lobby, purchase and wrap the gift. They return the package to the tree for a crew to sort and distribute to the children.

There are lots of opportunities to be involved with this mission. Please check them out below. If you have questions please contact Steve Brizendine, project leader, at 317.965.7623.

Here’s how you can help: Buy a gift.

Pick a name off of the Angel tree and purchase a gift using the personal information on the angel. Wrap the gift in a box. One gift per box, please.

Bake cookies.

Deliver them to the church on the designated day to be packaged and delivered with the gifts.

Volunteer to sort or distribute gifts and cookies.

If you have more time than money, volunteering is a way you can be involved. We welcome anyone who would like to help.

Calendar of important Angel Tree Dates Angel Trees will be up and Angels available November 18, 25 & December 2.

Gifts due by December 9 at 12:00 p.m.

Gift sort: December 9 at 1:00 p.m.

Cookies due by December 14 by 5:00 p.m.

Cookie sort on December 14 at 5:30 p.m.

Gift delivery on December 16.

Thanks be to God for his indescribable gift! - 2 Corinthians 9:15 14

pumc.org

Mission News

Ruth Ellen Stone, Committee Chair, missions@pumc.org

Florence and any other disasters that develop this year. Thank you for showing God’s BIG love in this way.

Celebrate your part in that, and tell your friends and neighbors about this wonderful way to provide help no matter where it is needed.

Learn more and give online at umcor.org.

Bundle ‘Em Up UMCOR Offers Hope UMCOR (the United Methodist Committee on Relief) is known for being one of the first relief agencies “on the ground” early in every relief effort.

They also have a reputation for staying through the recovery and rebuilding periods. Even more noteworthy is the fact that UMCOR is able to use every penny given for a specific geographic area or disaster for that exact location because United Methodists around the world take a special offering in the spring of each year to fund the basic needs of this agency.

No doubt much money will be given through PUMC to address Hurricane Serving the Children of Plainfield

Winter is coming so now is the time to search the closets and other storage areas of your homes to find coats and cold-weather gear which you and your family no longer use or need. Please bring heavy, used or new, clean coats to PUMC and place them in the big boxes labeled for coat collection. Also helpful are hats, scarves, gloves, and mittens to help keep children and adults in our area warm. Thank you for showing God’s BIG Love with the gift of warmth.

Donations can be accepted at PUMC through October 10.

15

CROP Walk October 7 Mark your calendar for the afternoon of Sunday, October 7 to be in Hummel Park to walk with others in raising awareness of the issue of hunger around the world. And your walking will also raise money for food and clean water in many areas both locally and around the world.

You can register and pick-up a Donation Envelope at PUMC in the Main Lobby through October 7. Then join other walkers at Hummel Park (in Plainfield, IN) at Shelter House #3 at 1:30 p.m., Oct. 7. Walk starts at 2:00 p.m. The route will take you past the Dairy Queen for a Dilly Bar and then back to the park. See you there!

Visit the display in the Main Lobby at PUMC on coming Sundays to learn more and participate.

Fall Food Drive

PUMC will host its Fall Food Drive the first three Sundays of November.

Bags for filling (and/or lists of suggested items) will be distributed on Sunday, November 4. Deliveries to area food pantries will begin the following Sunday.

Persons who prefer, may give cash or a check (made out to PUMC and marked for Food Drive) to enable Volunteers In Training (VIM) the Mission Committee to shop for needed food and household supplies.

Training at PUMC Donations of nonperishable food as PUMC will be hosting training for well as household supplies may be left persons leading (or going on) work in the Donation Depot (across from the teams to various mission projects Church Office) at any time. around the US, or even out of country. This is an opportunity to Calling All Knitters! learn what makes for a good experience In addition to the collection of coats for all the participants and how to plan and other cold weather items in the time together to ensure learning October, there will be a need locally and spiritual growth. To participate in for scarves, hats, mittens, and gloves this training on November 10, 10 a.m.

– 2 p.m., with leadership provided by when the annual Mitten Trees go up staff of the Indiana Conference of the at PUMC. Donated items will go to UMC, please be in touch with PUMC Fletcher Place Community Center in Missions Chair Ruth Ellen Stone at Indianapolis and to Indianapolis Public School #34 in early December. Your missions@pumc.org. handmade cold-weather items will be blessing to children who receive them.

16

pumc.org

And if you don’t knit, store-bought is a closing ceremony (Oct. 14 or Nov. 4) just as special! Look for the Mitten to see firsthand how God has impacted Trees up at PUMC in the coming weeks. lives. (And perhaps you would like to be on a future team!)

The PUMC Kairos team will be at a Kairos table in the Main Lobby on Sundays through Oct. 7 to accept your support. If you have specific questions, please contact any team member through the church office, 317.839.2319.

Send us to prison… please!

In Matthew 25 Jesus calls us to feed the hungry, comfort the stranger, clothe the naked, and visit those who are sick or in prison. These issues were very much a part of John Wesley’s vision and mission in forming the Methodist Church. And they are close to the heart of PUMC mission. Through Kairos Prison Ministry, we specifically visit those who are in prison.

On October 11-14, Pastor Ken Loudenback, and PUMC Members Dave Korty, Norm Geible and Bill Kirchoff will be going into Plainfield Correctional Facility to share God’s love and grace with the men there. On November 1-4, PUMC Member Mary Geible will be doing the same for the women at Rockville Correctional Facility.

You can help send these persons to prison equipped to serve God and the people there, many who have been forgotten, but are still God’s children. You can help by baking cookies (lots of cookies), making encouraging posters, providing financial support, or praying for the weekend. Come to Serving the Children of Plainfield

Imagine Thanksgiving or Christmas Dinner …

Now imagine Thanksgiving or Christmas Dinner with yeast rolls from the Beef House!!!

It’s possible, thanks to this annual fundraiser from the FUN Adult Sunday School Class!

The class will be taking orders for rolls, apple butter and strawberry jam on Sundays, October 21 and 28.

Payment is required at time of order.

Delivery will be on Sunday, November 18. Visit the display in the south lobby or just outside the Worship Annex to place an order. Proceeds benefit various church ministries and missions.

17

United Methodist Women Raise Awareness PUMC’s Rachel Circle (women’s group) of the United Methodist Women invites you and your guests to its October 9 meeting to learn about the important and difficult subject of human trafficking. We are honored to have Mona Clayton, daughter of Jackie and Rev. Bill Clayton, and Mona’s colleague as our speakers. Join others on October 9, 7:00 p.m. in Clayton Hall, to learn more through a short media presentation.

As advocates for social justice internationally, United Methodist Women are engaged in a global effort to raise awareness about and end labor bondage and sexual exploitation. Worldwide, human trafficking is the second largest criminal enterprise. It is a modern18

day form of slavery that occurs in every state, including Indiana.

An Indianapolis-based non-profit organization called Purchased is committed to partnering with the local community to be part of the solution. Purchased and a related organization called Thrive have developed programs to work with young women who are survivors or at-risk of trafficking and their loved ones and mentors.

Come to this event and learn more the issue of human trafficking in our communities and how you can make an impact for victims and their families.

Questions? Contact Kathy List klist@sprintmail.com or Roberta Rhodes rwnrhodes@gmail.com. pumc.org

Encore Senior Ministry Sue Hylton, encore@pumc.org

A Special Thanks

Check Us Out!

Thanks to the Young at Heart Committee that provided such a spectacular afternoon of great fellowship, wonderful food and outstanding entertainment on September 20. Special thanks to Barbara Baker and the wonderful helpers who continue to outdo themselves each year. Serving on the Young at Heart Steering Committee were Jan Baer, Judy Bobb, Judy Karstens, Sue Nadin, Martha Roath and Barbara Baker. Thanks to Julia Berberich and her crew of Andrew and Adam, Linda Eichenburger, Judy Holzknecht and many others who provided great food and outstanding service. Thanks to those who provided transportation to and from this special event. Thanks to Norm Geible for being our outstanding Master of Ceremonies. But most of all, thanks to those who were able to join us for this special, annual event. Fifteen of those who were 90 years or older were in attendance! We appreciate all of our guests and how much they mean to PUMC!

What’s next for Encore Senior Ministries?

Reserve Thursday, November 8, for the next upcoming event. If you are 60 or older, you are invited to attend a special noon-time luncheon in Clayton Hall and a very special program. After a delicious lunch prepared and served by PUMC’s United Methodist Women, Rev. David Babb, skilled wood carver, will show us his antique carousel figures and talk to us about each one. Rev. Babb was with us a couple of years ago and everyone enjoyed his sharing his Santas that were hand-carved.

Sign-ups to attend this event will be Oct. 14, 21, and 28 at the Encore Desk Ministry Desk in the Main Lobby. The cost is $10 to defray the cost of the meal and part of the cost of having Rev. Babb with us. Your $10 will be appreciated at the time you sign up to attend.

Serving the Children of Plainfield

19

Church Council Report

Nikki Shoultz, Committee Chairperson, churchcouncil@pumc.org

The Church Council met for its regular monthly meeting on September 12, 2018. In addition to hearing devotions and praying, receiving regular reports from committee chairs and lay leaders, the Council celebrated Glory Sightings, evidences of God's work for good around us.

Additionally, the Council received the following reports and made the following actions: Jenn Finesilver, Lay Leader for Worship, sent the following report: Beginning Sunday, Sept, 30, in both Classic and NewDay Praise Worship, as well as Kids@PUMC (grades k-5), and in many small groups, gratitude will be the theme. Using Rev. Kent Millard's book, The Gratitude Path, as the foundation, worship, small groups, and children's programming will take participants on a journey in to a deeper experience and expression of gratitude. This worship series and church-wide study will last through October, 21.

Then on Sunday, October 28, PUMC will welcome the author of The Gratitude Path, Rev. Ken Millard, to be our guest preacher on Consecration Sunday. We will keep our current, regular worship schedule on that Sunday as we answer the stewardship question of "What percentage of my income is God calling me to give through 20

this ministry?"

Bree Dunscombe reported for Children’s Ministry (kids@pumc) that the new year will bring Family Nights that will include worship, faith formation and fun. October 28, PUMC will host Trunk or Treat and an organ Spook-tacular concert.

Transforming for Tomorrow • Project Committee member, Mark Preis, reported that Phase 1 of the Parking Lot Project (repair and resurfacing) is under way. Areas of the parking lot are requiring more work than anticipated. Resurfacing of the existing parking lot in the east and south sides of the building will be completed in September.

• Design has been approved by the Town of Plainfield for the new exterior sign. The sign is in production.

• In celebration of reaching $400,000 in gifts and pledges, the Church Council added black & white focused squares on the progress banners located around the church to mark this milestone.

Bob Milligan, Staff Parish Relations Committee, reported that interviews are scheduled with two strong candidates for the part-time Bookkeeper (Treasurer) position.

Jaime Carini, Organ Scholar, has pumc.org

been granted a leave of absence for the fall semester. Simon Pick, Choir Director and Principal Organist began in that position on September 1.

Bill Edie, Finance Chair, reported that 2018 giving remains ahead of budget, expenses, and projections.

Glory to God! A complete financial report is available in the church office upon request.

The next meeting of the Church Council will be October 10, 2018, 7:00 p.m.

Because God Gives, We Give. Thank You for You Generosity!

Brenda Barnett, PUMC Financial Administrator, reports the following giving in July-August 2018, to ministry and mission beyond the Basic Ministry Budget. Give easily and safely online any time at pumc.org. Thank you for your generosity, Back to School Supplies: $ 200.00 PUMC Homeless Outreach: $ 1,100.00 Madina Village School, Sierra Leone: $ 115.00 Henderson Settlement (UM Mission in Appalachia): $ 250.00 PUMC Youth: $ 530.00 PUMC Music Ministry: $ 2,100.00 PUMC Bell Choir: $ 765.54 PUMC Family Assistance Fund (direct aid to local families in need): $ 2,670.00 Family Promise of Hendricks County: $ 145.00 PUMC Memorial Gifts: $ 611.00 United Methodist Committee on Relief – Disaster Relief: $ 50.00 PUMC Food Drive: $ 25.00 PUMC Last Saturday Lunch: $ 20.00 PUMC Kids Connection: $ 75.00 Friendly Planet Missiology: $ 100.00 Indianapolis Public School #34: $200.00 Total Giving in July-August, 2018, beyond the Basic Ministry Budget: $ 8,956.54 Serving the Children of Plainfield

21

In the Hospital this Past Month

Do you want to order a prayer blanket or bandanna?

• Ken Buckner • LeaAnn Shover Prayer blankets and bandannas are tangible ways to express God’s love • Emily Hinton • Bonnie Molloy and give those in need comfort and • Oma Buckner • Karen Wagler support from the PUMC congregation.

• Mary Lew Taylor • Webb James If you would like to order a blanket • Margaret Hay • Faith Gallaher or bandanna, please contact Carol Love & Sympathy Foxworthy at cfoxworthy@att.net or • the friends and family of Charlie 317.838.7588. Blanket: $20; Bandanna: $10. Make your check payable to PUMC Muston upon his death. and mark it Prayer Blanket Ministry.

• the family and friends of Mary Lew Taylor on her death.

PUMC Vital Signs • the family and friends of Betty 2018 YTD Basic Ministry Denton on her death.

Budget thru August Giving $ 706,257 Prayer Blankets Expenses $ 646,443 • Rita Horn from Todd and Debbie Giving – Expense Balance $ 59,814 Sprinkle with prayers for comfort 8 months “budget” $ 696,979 and peace. (CLA) • Sam Horn from Todd and Debbie Sprinkle with prayers for comfort and peace. (CLA) • Jack Horn from Todd and Debbie Sprinkle with prayers for comfort and peace. (CLA) • Caroline Horn from Todd and Debbie Sprinkle with prayers for comfort and peace. (CLA) • Ashton Christopher Cook from Mike and Elizabeth Gilbert with prayers that God will guard, guide, and bless this new life and his parents. (NDP) • Jaime Carini from PUMC Sanctuary Choir with prayers of strength and healing. (CLA)

22

pumc.org

Ways to Connect eNews from PUMC Visit www.pumc.org to sign-up for free weekly eNews and digital delivery of the monthly newsletter, “The Circuit Rider.”

Follow PUMC on /PlainfieldUMC /NewDayPraise /PUMCBibleExplorers PUMC weekly sermons available in the Plainfield UMC App.

October 28

Bible Reading Plan available in the Plainfield UMC App.

4 - 6:00 p.m.

TRUNK TREAT

Ways to Give

or

Give in person in worship on Sunday morning.

ACH

North Parking Lot

Plainfield United Methodist Church

600 Simmons Street Plainfield, IN 46168

IN-PERSON

CASH/CHECK

and 6 - 7:15 p.m.

SPOOKTACULAR & SILENT MOVIE with pipe organist

PETER IN-PERSON

CASH/CHECK

ONLINE

AUTOMATED

DRAFT via Online SECURE at pumc.orgBANKor SecureGive on your mobile device.

ACH

IN-PERSON

CASH/CHECK

ONLINE SECURE

ACH ONLINE SECURE

CONTE

AUTOMATED BANK DRAFT

Phone Rebecca Blackwelder in the Church Office to set up, 317.839.2319.

AUTOMATED BANK DRAFT

Give through the Plainfield UMC App. Get the app on your mobile device at pumc.link/getapp

Sanctuary

Plainfield United Methodist Church

www.pumc.org · facebook.com/PlainfieldUMC

The Plainfield UMC App Available in the App Stores Download today at

pumc.link/getapp

Serving the Children of Plainfield

23

October 2018 Plainfield United Methodist Church 600 Simmons Street Plainfield, IN 46168 Time Sensitive Material Return Service Requested

Serving the Children of Plainfield