At First United Methodist Church West Lafayette (First Church), we embrace and celebrate the complexities of our faith, our world, and each other.
When it comes to our world, we strive to make it a better place through service and social action. Our faith is put into action by caring for others.
We are excited to share news that reflects both our care for creation and our commitment to community.
First Church is exploring the installation of up to three electric vehicle (EV) charging stations in our church parking lot for public use.
This initiative is more than a facilities update—it is a faithful step forward.
A Faithful Response to Creation Care
As people of faith, we believe that caring for the earth is not optional—it is part of our calling. Providing EV charging stations is one way we can support a broader movement away from fossil fuels and toward cleaner, more sustainable energy.
By offering accessible charging in our highly visible and centrally located space, we can help meet a growing need in the West Lafayette community while contributing to positive climate action.
Meeting a Real Community Need
West Lafayette continues to see increased use of electric vehicles, yet public charging access remains limited. Our location—already a place of gathering, service, and welcome—positions First Church to help fill that gap.
We envision a simple but meaningful connection: as people come to charge their cars, they encounter a community rooted in hope, hospitality, and purpose.
A Growing Movement Among Churches
First UMC West Lafayette joins a growing number of congregations across the country stepping into this work. Faith communities—from Chicago to Minnesota and beyond—are installing EV charging stations as a visible sign of their commitment to sustainability and public service.
We are grateful to be part of this wider movement—one that reflects both innovation and deeply rooted values.
Charge Your Faith. Charge Your Car.
This project is also an opportunity to connect our environmental action with our spiritual life.
Whether someone is stopping by for a quick charge or staying a while, we hope they experience something more: a place of welcome, reflection, and connection.
Charge your faith. Charge your car.
What’s Next
The Trustees are actively exploring logistics, costs, and partnerships to make this vision a reality. We will continue to share updates as plans develop and welcome your questions, ideas, and support.
May we commit ourselves to protecting the Earth for today and for generations to come.
With gratitude and hope,
Rev. Duane Carlisle (he/him), Senior Pastor
Pastor Kory Pritchett (he/him), Associate Pastor
Perry Brown, Governance Board Chair
Don Caddy, Trustee Chair
Anna Clark and Diana Hoke, Lay Leaders
First United Methodist Church of West Lafayette
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