Newsletters

Commemorating Love, Diversity, and Harmony: FUMC and Lafayette Master Chorale Unite to Honor Matthew Shepard’s Legacy

As we enter the fall season, we find ourselves marking the 25th anniversary of an event that shook the world. The memory of Matthew Shepard, a young LGTBQ+ university student whose life was tragically cut short on October 12, 1998, in a senseless act of violence, continues to serve as a stark reminder of the intolerance and hatred that still linger in our society. Yet, it is also a reminder that we must persist in Read more…

By Natalie Thomison, ago

Come to the Table: Our Theme for the Season of Stewardship and Generosity

We are fast approaching the season when we will use our indoor dining room tables a whole lot more. We won’t be firing up the grill as often or sitting out on our patios and decks. The kids are now well into the rhythm of a new school year, and soon the weather will cool down, the days will be shorter, and it will start to feel more natural to gather inside. There’s something meaningful Read more…

By Natalie Thomison, ago

You’re Invited to Join Us for Queer Christian Fellowship!

As part of FUMC’s Reconciling Ministry, we invite LGBTQIA+ community members and their allies to engage in faith reflection and fellowship. This weekly gathering is a collaboration with the online community Q Christian Fellowship and First United Methodist Church which is a part of the Reconciling Ministries Network in the United Methodist denomination. The gathering meets on Wednesday evenings from 6:00 to 8:00 PM during the Purdue academic year, and on select dates over the summer and breaks. The “Brown Bag” Fellowship hour is from Read more…

By Natalie Thomison, ago

Be a Part of the Solution at Klondike Elementary School

ALL GOD’S CHILDREN NEED SHOES: SNEAKERS FOR STUDENTS @KES. Most of us at FUMC are able to provide for the basic needs of our children. However, at Klondike Elementary School, there are children who wear shoes that are either too small, much too large, or in serious disrepair. Their parents work hard, many at minimum wage jobs, but can’t afford new shoes for their children. We are all too aware of the rising costs of inflation: Read more…

By Natalie Thomison, ago

FUMC Governance Board: Paving the Way for Progress

In the heart of our vibrant congregation, the First United Methodist Church (FUMC) Governance Board stands as a dedicated group of individuals working tirelessly to steer our spiritual community towards growth and transformation. At the helm of this dynamic team is Perry Brown, a seasoned leader who serves as the President of the FUMC Governance Board. With his guidance and the collective efforts of the board members, First Church is setting its sights on a Read more…

By Natalie Thomison, ago

We’re Out – A First Church Pride Event on October 21, 2023

First United Methodist Church (FUMC) is excited to show its welcome and embrace for the LGBTQ+ community. We are showing our support by offering an afternoon of fun, games, food, music, and information about inclusive organizations in the community. Join us on the front lawn of FUMC, just west of campus and right next door to Purdue’s Horticulture Park, for a joyful and welcoming festival! Saturday, October 21 12:00-4:00pm First United Methodist Church 1700 Mitch Read more…

By Natalie Thomison, ago
Adult Education

What is the Future of Christianity?

Two of our leading theological scholars today, Diana Butler Bass and Brian McLaren, are progressive advocates of a new kind of Christianity centered in justice and compassion that explores faith, culture, and social transformation. Diana Butler BassBass’s insightful writings, podcasts, and videos have garnered widespread recognition for their thought-provoking analysis and inspiring perspectives on the changing landscape of religious life. For an interesting way to become aquatinted with her, you might check out her delightful Read more…

By First Church, ago
kids bell choir

Kid’s Chimes Choir

Attention all 2nd through 6th graders:  First Church is launching the Kid’s Chimes Choir!  The Kid’s Chimes Choir will rehearse Sundays at 4:00 PM starting August 27 and will ring in worship on Sunday, September 24. For now, this is a one-time event.  If the trial run goes well, there may be other opportunities to ring during the 11:00 worship service throughout the year. A minimum of five interested and committed ringers are needed for this choir. Read more…

By First Church, ago

Uplifting Communities: Purdue and FUMC Join Forces to Launch West Lafayette’s First Freedom School

Purdue University and First United Methodist Church (FUMC) joined forces in a unique collaboration this summer to bring West Lafayette its first-ever Freedom School program. Led by Breanya Hogue, Assistant Professor of Language Education at Purdue and Co-Executive Director of the Purdue Freedom School, this transformative initiative held the potential to profoundly impact the lives of local children and families. Sharing the Co-Executive Director position is Pastor Duane Carlyle of FUMC, solidifying a strong partnership Read more…

By First Church, ago

The Message of the Psalms

Have you ever been stuck? Have you had that feeling where you have a general sense of what you want to say, but you can’t find that beginning point that gets you started? For me the solution has usually been solved by finding a scriptural touchstone. A good scripture always offers a firm grounding from which to leap. But to be honest, no scripture came to mind to describe what I was feeling. I knew Read more…

By First Church, ago