ICYMI: Charge Your Faith. Charge Your Car.

On St. Patrick’s Day, Pastor Duane Carlisle and the First Church Leadership Team shared some “green” news that reflects both our care for creation and our commitment to community.

First United Methodist Church of West Lafayette 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.

Holy Week at First Church

Throughout Lent we have been walking The Way, inspired by the ancient pilgrimage of the Camino de Santiago—a sacred journey traveled by seekers for more than a thousand years.

Holy Week is the final leg of our spiritual pilgrimage and we invite you to walk these sacred steps with us.

To view the full Holy Week schedule, visit our website.

Easter Brunch – Sunday, April 5

Since Easter Brunch falls on Sunday, April 5, the same day we normally have First Sunday Brunch, the two will be combined and be served starting at

9:30 AM in the Activities Center. Therefore, we need helpers a bit earlier than usual:

• 2 Kitchen Assistants; 8:15-10:30 AM
• 2 Clean Up Assistants; 9:45-10:30 AM
• 2 Clean Up Assistants; 10:30-11:15 AM

Church members are also welcome to assist with brunch by donating food items. Please ensure that all food items are nut free.

Please use the sign up link below if you are interested in volunteering or donating.

Freedom School 2026 at First Church

We’re excited to announce that First Church will once again host the Purdue CDF Freedom School this summer! To learn more about the program and its impact, visit our website or check out this recent article from WLFI.

Our team is busy getting ready to welcome students and create an engaging, fun, and meaningful experience. You can help support Purdue CDF Freedom School at First Church by making a gift here. Select Freedom School in the Fund dropdown menu.

Thank you for helping make this summer unforgettable for our students!

Work with Us: Worship Technology Coordinator

First Church is seeking a part-time Worship Technology Coordinator to help support and oversee the technology that enhances our worship and outreach. View the job posting here.

To apply, please send a brief expression of interest or resume to Brianna Ginn (FUMC Staff Parish Relation Chair) at fumc.west.lafayette@gmail.com.

Adult Education Class – The Way: Going Deeper

Dates: Sundays during Lent season (except the first Sunday of each month)

Time: 10:00-10:50 AM

Location: First Church, Activity Center

During Lent, the Living Faithfully Thinking Critically class will engage in the church-wide study of the film The Way. The class is for adults of all ages and meets year round with new, engaging subjects throughout. You are welcome to join us anytime!

For more information, contact Diana Hoke at hokediana@gmail.com.

Adult Education Class – Neurotheology

Dates: Sundays, April 12-June 14 (except the first Sunday of each month)

Time: 10:00-10:50 AM

Location: First Church, Activity Center

Beginning Sunday, April 12, this new adult education class will consider the topic Neurotheology, a multi-disciplinary field combining elements of science, theology, philosophy, and psychology to examine roles for the brain in feelings of spirituality and religiosity.

For more information, contact Diana Hoke at hokediana@gmail.com or Cary Mitchell at cmitchel@purdue.edu.

No Kings March – Saturday, March 28

Concerned about our government’s methods? Join the next No Kings rally on Saturday, March 28, from 1:00-4:00 PM. People will gather at the Sonya Margerum Fountain next to Tapawingo Park in West Lafayette at 1:00 PM, walk over the pedestrian bridge and around the courthouse, and back across the bridge to the Power to the People Community Fair at the Tapawingo pavilion.

Pastor Duane Carlisle will be moderating a conversation following the march.

The organizers will provide live music, speakers, community organizations, and food trucks.

Volunteers are needed to staff the First Church tent. Please contact Pastor Duane and Pastor Kory to get involved.

Food Items Needed at Tippecanoe United Food Pantry

The Tippecanoe County United Food Pantry, operated by Church Women United, is in need of specific food items:

Canned items

• Fruits & Vegetables
• Tomatoes
• Beans
• Soup
• Pasta sauces

Boxed goods

• Cereal
• Macaroni & cheese
• Pasta
• Rice
• Crackers
• 
  

Peanut butter is also always appreciated.

Empty egg cartons are NOT needed by the Pantry at this time. However, your recycled plastic grocery bags can always be used.

Please place donations in the labeled baskets located in the Narthex (the First Church lobby). Since storage space is limited, we kindly ask that you donate only the items listed.

The address for monetary donations to the food pantry is:

Mary Alice Bauman

CYU Pantry Treasurer

3116 Sullivan St

West Lafayette, IN 47906



Please make checks payable to Tippecanoe Co. United Food Pantry, Inc.