- Synoptic Gospels Bible Study – Sundays @ 9:15am; Join Zoom Meeting here, access reading schedule here
- Sunday Morning Worship – Sundays @ 10:30am; Join Zoom Webinar here
- Morning Café and Discussion – Tuesdays @ 10:15am; Join Zoom Meeting here
- Scripture Reader sign up – Click here
- Usher sign up – Click here (needed 05/03 & 05/10)
- Flowers sign up – Click here
- Coffee Hour Host sign up – Click here
- Communion Server sign up –Click here
- Milk Money Volunteers sign up – Click here
- Charity vs. Justice video – Click here
- Donate to First United Online – Click here
- First United YouTube Channel (sermons & more) – Click here
- First United Vimeo Channel (full worship services) – Click here
- 2026 Online Pledge Card – Click here
DON’T FORGET
Mother Hubbard’s Cupboard – Celebration Coffee Hour
THANK YOU for your support of Mother Hubbard’s Cupboard (The Hub) through your financial contributions and inviting friends, family, and community members to contribute to our matching grant! YOU DID IT! Funds donated by our congregation and the wider community surpassed our goal totaling $10,690.62, resulting in over $20,000 to fund the impactful work of The Hub! You are invited to gather in Fellowship Hall following worship for a special coffee hour this Sunday, April 26th, hosted by Mother Hubbard’s Cupboard to celebrate this fabulous achievement.
Youth Connections
Youth in grades 6 and up are invited to gather with Pastor Jessica and one another in Roger Williams Hall following worship this Sunday, April 26th, 12-1pm to consider your questions, big and small, and explore faith matters as they are relevant to your life. Please contact Pastor Jessica with any questions.
Quarryland Men’s Chorus Concert
It’s the final countdown! The 24th season of Quarryland Men’s Chorus is coming to an end, and they are adding another 525,600 minutes to their long history with a spring concert that is “By the Numbers!” You won’t have to walk 500 miles to enjoy it, as they are singing right here in our beautiful Sanctuary this Saturday, April 25th, at 7:30pm and again on Sunday, April 26th, at 3pm. Numerical songs abound, but Quarryland invites you to this curated musical experience where you’ll have a million reasons to laugh, cry, cheer, or just count your blessings. Time after time, the chorus sings for a measure of belonging, personal expression, and musical excellence in the LGBTQ+ community. You can count on QMC to make it worth your time! Tickets are $20/adult and $10/student, with 17 and under free. Tickets are available at the door, from members, or at their website quarryland.org.
NEW/UPDATED THIS WEEK
Death in Our Church Family
It is with deep sadness that we share the news of the death of Don Bebeau (b. April 29, 1929) on Wednesday, April 22nd. Don, along with his loving daughter Julia, was an active and engaged member of the First United family. Memorial information will be forthcoming and shared as soon as it becomes available. We invite you to offer your prayers for Julia and Don’s family and loved ones as they grieve his death and give thanks for a life well lived.
Come On, Ring Those Bells!
Our small, yet mighty bell choir will share their tremendous gifts with us one final time this Sunday before their summer break. Have you ever wondered if you might have what it takes to ring with them? Whether you’ve ever considered joining the bell choir or are simply curious as to what holding and ringing a bell would feel like, you are invited to gather at the Chancel steps this Sunday, April 26th, and give it a ring. The bells will be out and accessible for 10 minutes following worship; come ring a bell under the guidance of one of our experienced ringers, ask any questions you may have, and perhaps consider whether you’re feeling called to join them when they reconvene in August.
Happy Birthday
Please remember in your prayers and give thanks for those who will be celebrating their birthdays in the week ahead: Linda Smith (April 27) and Julia Bebeau (April 27). We are blessed to have you in our lives!
Upcoming Board Meetings
The Board of Worship, Art, and Music (Vickey Allen, Chair) will meet via Zoom on Monday, May 4th, at 5:30pm. The Board of Community & Outreach (Julia Bebeau, Chair) will meet via Zoom on Monday, May 4th, at 6:30pm. The Board of Building and Grounds (Emily Mathes, Chair) will meet via Zoom on Monday, May 11th, at 6:30pm. All meetings of Boards and Council are open to the wider congregation. Please be in touch with appropriate chairs if you are interested in attending.
Feminist Women’s Book Club
Our feminist women’s book club will meet on Sunday, May 10th, at 12pm, in Roger Williams Hall and via Zoom to discuss “Western Lane” by Chetna Maroo. This debut novel about grief, family, and identity, centers on 11-year-old Gopi who immerses herself in the world of squash after her mother’s death, using the sport as a way to cope and connect with her father and sisters. Set in 1980s London, the book explores the complex dynamics of a British-Indian family. As she grows apart from her family, her life is reduced to the sport, guided by only its rhythms. With time she realizes on the court, she is not alone and reconnects with family and peers. This novel is an indelible coming-of-age story, which captures the ordinary and brings us beauty. Feminist women of all ages are invited to join us. Check out our book club’s Pinterest listing here. For Zoom information or more information about the book club contact facilitator Cindy Stone, stonec@iu.edu.
Invitation to Offer Summer Music
Following worship on Sunday, May 10th, the Vocal Choir will take a break from rehearsing regularly until August (the Bell Choir begins their break following worship this Sunday). This hiatus offers a wonderful opportunity for members and friends of First United to share your creative gifts with our congregation during worship. There are a good number of possibilities available for the coming months.Please reach out to Ryan Block (blockryfuc@gmail.com) if you are interested!
UPCOMING WORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES
Join us for worship each Sunday morning at 10:30am. This Sunday’s service will feature Shelli Yoder in the pulpit as we continue our study of the Gospel of Matthew; she will also offer a special message for the young and young at heart. Rev. Jessica Petersen-Mutai will lead us in recognizing and blessing Vickey Allen as a Member in Discernment (Not sure what that means? Come, find out on Sunday!). Kim Yaussy Albright will highlight some of the many ways we are invited to engage in the life of the church and our wider community. Lisa Kwong will present the day’s scripture and serve as our congregational lead. Ryan Block and Hyeyeon Ahn will lead us in song, and the First United Vocal Choir and Bell Choir will each offer special music. Dave Meyer, Daniel Salvat, and Du Huynh will offer a warm welcome to those who gather in the sanctuary. And, Kyle Hetrick and Martin Mutai will welcome all who join via Zoom as they ensure the audio/visual pieces run as smoothly as possible. Finally, be sure to join us in Fellowship Hall for our “Matching Grant Celebration” Coffee Hourhosted by Mother Hubbard’s Cupboard.
Join the Zoom Webinar by clicking here
Dial-in number: (312) 626-6799; Webinar ID: 828 3681 0281
The service will be posted on Monday afternoon on First United’s Vimeo channel (where you can access all of our previous worship services).
Donate online by clicking here
Music Ministry
All those interested in music and making a joyful noise are invited to join our Bell and Vocal Choirs. The Bell Choir will conclude their 2025-2026 season with a performance this Sunday. The Vocal Choir rehearses weekly on Thursdays from 7:30-9pm in the Choir Room; their final rehearsal for the season will be on May 7th. If you are interested in joining either or both of the choirs, please reach out to Ryan Block (blockryfuc@gmail.com). No prior experience is required to join either group! If you love music and want a way to express that love through fellowship, the First United Church Music Ministry is the place for you!
Send Off for Hyeyeon Ahn
It is with great appreciation and sadness that we send off our wonderful Organist, Hyeyeon Ahn, to her next musical venture. Hyeyeon will graduate from IU this May and continue her studies at Rice University. Her final Sunday with us will be May 3rd. Please join us for worship and a special coffee hour that day as we give thanks for her service this past year and wish her well as she embarks on this next phase of her journey. As Hyeyeon looks to her future, she also wants to express “how truly grateful I am for your kindness, support, and welcome during my time at First United Church. This was my first church in the United States, and I will always remember how warmly I was received here.” We offer our blessings and best wishes to you, Hyeyeon!
COMMUNITY CARE
Keeping Up with Our Congregation
One of the gifts of being part of a community of faith is that we don’t face the ups and downs and middles of life alone. We invite you to share what is going on in your lives by contacting Lisa Stanger and/or Pastor Jessica so we can appropriately share information (with your permission) with our wider community of care that we might offer our support whatever you may be facing.
You are encouraged to offer your prayers and actions of support for:
- The family of Don Bebeau (following his death on April 22nd)
- Sara Cole
- Barb Clark
- Phyllis Perkins
- Frank Ivey (father of Sara Ivey Lucas)
- Jean Peters
- Elizabeth Hanson
- Jen Lane
- Lisa Young and family (friends of Sara Ivey Lucas)
- Sam Troxal
Pizza & Play
Members and friends of First United of all ages and family configurations (and your friends and family) are encouraged to gather for Pizza & Play on Friday, May 1st, 5:30-7:30pm. We’ll enjoy a time of informal, unprogrammed fun and fellowship in Fellowship Hall. As the name implies, pizza, drinks, and dessert will be provided. If you’re planning to attend, please let Pastor Jessica know by Wednesday, April 29th so she can be sure to have enough food for all and account for any dietary needs.
First Sunday Donation Drive
The Board of Community & Outreach invites you to offer needed donations on the first Sunday of each month on a table in the Narthex. On Sunday, May 3rd, we encourage you to bring donations of non-perishable food items for our community members in need. As always, all of the collected food and cleaning/hygiene items will go to Pathways (formally Monroe County United Ministries, MCUM), and pet food will go to Area 10 Agency on Aging. Updated items needed for Pathways include cleaning/hygiene products: bodywash, hand soap, paper towels, laundry detergent (sheets or liquid), kids 3-in-1 shampoo & bodywash, toilet paper, adult toothbrushes, pull ups (all sizes), women’s deodorant, bleach, adult/baby lotion, glass cleaner, facial tissues, trash bags, mouthwash, and cleaning spray. Their food wishlist includes: broth (chicken or beef); baking essentials; tomato paste; alfredo sauce; mayo; popcorn, goldfish, etc.; instant coffee & tea; peaches, pineapple, fruit cups, pure pumpkin, & apple sauce; easy on-the-go snacks, pudding, chips, snack bars, etc.; easy mac; sloppy joe; taco kit; rice and gluten free pasta; pancake mix; beans (pinto, baked, & chili); bread & flour tortillas; potatoes, carrots, & mushrooms; and helper meals & instant rice. Gluten-free and non-dairy options are much appreciated. Thanks to your generosity, a total of 117 pounds in donations was delivered following our April 5th drive!
Milk Money for Pathways
First United has launched Milk Money, a six‑month commitment (March-August) to support families at Pathways through their Nourish Together program. Our church has pledged to provide all of the milk Pathways families need during this time. Rather than donating milk directly, the Board of Community & Outreach invites members to give designated donations (cash or checks marked “Milk Money”); thanks to your generosity, we have already collected $695! Church volunteers will purchase and deliver the milk to ensure safe handling and consistent supply. Volunteers are also needed to help purchase and/or deliver milk; sign up here. If you have any questions or problems signing up, please contact Kristin Martindale (kmdale@iu.edu).
Task of the Month for Earth Care
All within our congregation are encouraged to participate in Earth Care Indiana’s task of the month, a tangible and manageable way you can get involved in caring for creation. Rebecca Keith will make periodic announcements and encourage participation at coffee hour. Check out this Task of the Month website to learn about the tasks that are scheduled. Even small things can make a difference!
People’s Market
First United houses the People’s Cooperative Market (PCM) in Fellowship Hall on Saturdays, 10am-2pm, offering fresh, locally grown produce through CSAs to be picked up or delivered. The full market is once again up and running; join them any Saturday!The PCM also operates the high tunnel greenhouse to the south of the church playground, which includes a community garden and produces food that is given out at no cost to members of our wider community seeking local, nutritious fresh food. You may reach out via email (peoplesmarketmanager@gmail.com) to learn more or to volunteer with the market.
The Joy of Hosting
Our Member Relations Committee continues to offer support to weekly coffee hour hosts and encourage everyone to sign up to host—it’s easy, fun, and a great way to serve your church family with a one-time commitment. Sign up as buddies or families, invite someone you’ve been wanting to get to know, use the occasion to showcase a family recipe or try out a new one. Sign up to host by clicking here.
EDUCATIONAL OFFERINGS
Celebrating Faith Formation
All are encouraged to join in celebrating the life-long journey of faith formation as we gather for worship on Sunday, May 3rd. We will recognize our graduating senior and scholarship recipient and show our appreciation for our awesome nursery care providers and CLT leaders as we recommit to our engagement in life-long learning and educating.
Read the Synoptics in a Year: Gospel of Matthew
As we seek to live out our mission more fully, you are invited to explore the words and deeds of Jesus through studying the synoptic gospels (Mark, Matthew, and Luke) over the course of the year. Join us as we explore the Gospel of Matthew through daily readings (access suggested reading schedule here), a weekly Sunday morning discussion group (9:15-10am in Roger Williams Hall and via Zoom, click here), and weekly sermons during worship. Let us continue on the journey of following Jesus more faithfully and fruitfully in 2026!
Tuesday Morning Café and Discussion
Join us in Roger Williams Hall or via Zoom (click here) Tuesdays at 10:15am-11:30am as we gather for a time of informal conversation followed by thought-provoking theological study and discussion. We are currently engaging with a 24-session study on “Thinking about Religion and Violence” presented by Dr. Jason C. Bivins (who earned his PhD in Religious Studies from Indiana University!). In a world where violence in the name of religion can impact so many other people’s lives, it’s critical to understand the intersection between religion and violence. Join us as we embark on a global, multidisciplinary investigation of religious violence as we examine the roots of this phenomenon and are guided toward more informed ways of thinking about it. Learn more here. Previous participation and perfect attendance are not required.
Children’s Learning Time
Each Sunday morning, children in kindergarten and up will begin in the Sanctuary with their families and proceed to Room 2 with their adult leads for Children’s Learning Time (CLT) following Children’s Time. Many thanks to Jessica McIntosh and Lena Stosberg for leading CLT this Sunday.
You are invited to consider whether you might be able to join our teaching rotation to enrich the program for the kids and gain so much from the experience yourself! Lesson materials and supplies are provided, and we have seasoned leaders to help get newer volunteers acclimated. If you are interested or have questions, please reach out to Megan Merrick, Pastor Jessica, or any member of the Board of Faith Formation.
Nursery Care
Our youngest children are welcome to spend time from 10-11:45am playing in the nursery or on the playground, weather permitting. Lena Stosberg and Jesscia McIntosh will ensure our little ones are safe and engaged in fun activities during worship this Sunday. We are always looking for additional volunteer assistants to help in the nursery occasionally. Contact Jessica McIntosh if you are interested and with any questions.
CONGREGATIONAL COMMUNICATIONS
Ordination & Installation of Shelli Yoder
First United Church and the Southeast Association of the Indiana-Kentucky Conference (UCC) will host the joyous occasion of the Ordination and Installation Service of Shelli Yoder on Sunday, May 3rd, at 3pm, in the Sanctuary. Those wishing to participate online may access the service via Zoom (click here). An offering will be received to support Association Members in Discernment, and a reception will follow the service. Let’s come together to celebrate this meaningful event in the life of Shelli and the church!
Sabbatical Pastor Called
Our Associate Minister Shelli Yoder will serve as our Sabbatical Pastor while Pastor Jessica is away (May 11-August 9). Shelli is excited to step more fully into pastoral leadership right at the moment the church will need steady coverage during Pastor Jessica’s sabbatical. Her goal is to provide dependable leadership that helps the congregation feel held, keeps our systems running smoothly, and preserves the spirit of worship and community that makes First United feel like home. We look forward to engaging in this expanded ministry with you, Shelli!
2026 Offering Envelopes and Direct Deposit
We will use leftover offering envelope boxes for 2026. For 2026, your number box will not be the same; please contact Lisa Stanger if you would like envelopes! Alternatively, if you would like to give to the church through direct deposit, please contact Lisa in the office to make sure she knows you would like to give in this convenient way and has your updated information.
Announcements Deadline
If you have information to include in our weekly announcements email, please send your item to Lisa Stanger by noon on the Monday before.
Contact Information
Rev. Jessica Petersen-Mutai, Senior Minister – revpetersenmutai@firstuc.org; 812-727-4414 (Cell) (Friday & Saturday off; emergency calls only)
Shelli Yoder, Associate Minister – revshelli@firstuc.org; 812-287-9351 (Cell) (Shelli’s position is very part-time; please keep this in mind as you consider reaching out)
Lisa Stanger, Office Manager – info@firstuc.org; 812-332-4439 (Office)
Ryan Block, Music Director – blockryfuc@gmail.com; 330-280-2513 (Cell)
Hyeyeon Ahn, Organist – ahn13@iu.edu; 930-904-4988 (Cell)
Kim Yaussy Albright, Church President – president@firstuc.org; 509-846-4276 (Cell)
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