TRUE LIFE CHANGE - Vol 3 ISSUE 2 by SFUMC

MAGAZINE

Jesus replied, “Anyone who drinks this water will soon become thirsty again. But those who drink the water I give will never be thirsty again. It becomes a fresh, bubbling spring within them, giving them eternal life.”

-John 4:13-14

Our church staff is here to help all generations experience true life change with Jesus. Feel free to contact them.

PHONE 217.793.9760

PASTORAL STAFf

Dr. Rev. Roger Grimmett | Lead Pastor

Rev. Nick Jordan | Pastor

MINISTRY STAFF

Allison Means | Director of Worship Arts

Brennan Pappas | Director of Technical Arts

Kelsie Fairfull | KidLife Director

Mike Keppler | Care Pastor

Natalie Emery | StudentLife Director

Sara Haley | EarlyLife Director & Preschool Teacher

Dr. See Tsai Chan | Assoc. Director of Music Ministry

Sharon Sweeney | Director of Connections

Terri Hempstead | Senior Ministries Coordinator

ADMINISTRATIVE STAFF

Bob Dodd | Executive Director

Dara Bose | Accountant & Women's Ministry Coordinator

Daina Jaronske | Print Shop Manager

Dayton Emery | Technical Arts Assistant/Video Producer

Eden Lindberg | FamilyLife Coordinator

Jenny Hutcherson | Financial Administrator

Kathy Kerr | Administrative Assistant

Kevin Behl | Facilities Manager

Sally Howard | Executive Assistant

Yamato Asakura | Worship Arts Assistant

custodial STAFF

Dorothy Gayton | Custodian/Kitchen

Renoldo Gayton | Lead Custodian

Preschool STAFF

Kacey Belitsos | Preschool Teacher

Molly Booher | Preschool Director & Teacher

Brandy Thomas |Preschool Teacher

Tracey Wobig | Preschool Assistant

STAFF emails:

First

A Year of True Life Change

Reflecting on a year where God’s faithfulness shaped every story

As we look back on 2025, one word rises above all the rest, transformation. It has been a year of moments that reminded us why we exist as a church family: to see all generations experience true life change with Jesus. We’ve celebrated milestones, welcomed new faces, and witnessed faith deepen in ways that only God could orchestrate.

From the joy of laughter shared at FamilyLife Movie Nights to the quiet prayers whispered along the Walking Path, God’s presence has been unmistakable. We’ve seen students encounter Him in powerful ways at camp, children discover His love in classrooms and VBS, and adults rekindle purpose through worship, service, and smallgroup connection. Each story of change, big or small, points back to the same truth: when we open our hands and hearts to God’s work, He transforms lives.

Every event, every ministry, and every act of compassion has been made possible by the joyful generosity of this congregation. Through faithful giving, we’ve equipped ministries to grow, reached our neighbors in love, and created spaces where people can encounter Jesus in meaningful, lasting ways. Your gifts have fueled moments of laughter, learning, worship, and healing. They’ve turned ideas into impact and hopes into testimonies.

As we prepare to step into a new season, we do so with gratitude and anticipation, thankful for all that God has done and expectant for all that He will continue to do through us. Together, we celebrate a year of true life change, and we look forward to what’s ahead as we keep living out our mission.

With Gratitude,

Dara Bose Accountant, Women's Ministry Coordinator, & Magazine Editor

name@springfieldfirst.org

Debt-Free CelebratioN

A Testament to God’s Faithfulness

On Sunday, March 30, we gathered as one church family to celebrate a remarkable milestone, the complete payoff of our church mortgage! It was a day filled with joy, gratitude, and praise as we reflected on God’s goodness and the faithful generosity of our congregation.

The morning was a true celebration of our past, present, and future. We were joined by past pastors and leaders who shared heartfelt messages of reflection and encouragement. Our worship service brought together every element of our church, from the traditional choir and handbell choir to the contemporary worship band and children’s choirs, creating a beautiful tapestry of praise that represented the heart of Springfield First.

As voices joined in song and stories were shared, one truth rang clear: God is faithful. This milestone is not just about being debt-free, it’s about being free to dream, to serve, and to continue living out our mission of seeing all generations experience true life change with Jesus.

The day was a reminder that together we are part of something greater, a community built on faith, generosity, and the unwavering goodness of God.

Missions

Every mission effort begins with one simple desire, to serve with joy. By using our time, talents, and treasures to be the hands and feet of Jesus, our congregation has shown what it means to live generously and love deeply. Through these efforts, we’ve not only met needs but built relationships rooted in faith and grace. Together, we’re extending God’s kingdom one act of service at a time.

Mission Market: Joyful Generosity in Motion

When we give with joy, we reflect the heart of God.

This year marked our very first Mission Market, and it was an incredible success! What began as an idea to turn our abundance into blessing quickly became a beautiful example of joyful generosity in action. Members of our congregation donated gently used household items, quality pieces that still had life and purpose left in them, along with delicious baked goods and treats.

The event felt like more than a sale; it was a celebration of community and care. Together, we kept hundreds of items out of landfills and placed them into the hands of families who needed them most. Through your generosity, we were also able to gift several local families in need with essential household items, a reminder that what we no longer need can become someone else’s answered prayer.

And the blessings didn’t stop there! The Mission Market raised over $5,000, all of which went directly to our Feed Springfield initiative. With each hot meal costing about $3, that’s more than 1,600 meals provided for our neighbors in need.

As we look ahead to hosting Mission Market again next year, we’re filled with gratitude and excitement. This event showed us that generosity isn’t just about giving money, it’s about giving meaning, extending love, and allowing God to use what we have to bring about true life change.

“What we no longer needed became someone else’s blessing — and together we provided over 1,600 meals to our community.”

Grab your small group, friends, or family, and help us prepare, serve, or deliver meals for various ministries in Springfield, including the Salvation Army Shelter, Contact Ministries, The James Project, and others.

feeding springfield: faith in action

When we serve with love; lives and hearts are filled.

Each month, we gather around kitchen counters, classrooms, and ovens, preparing meals that carry more than just nourishment. Through Feed Springfield and our Casserole Crew, we’ve learned that something holy happens when we serve others in simple ways. What begins as a meal turns into a moment of connection, a reminder that we’re not just feeding stomachs, we’re feeding souls.

We’ve seen firsthand how a warm meal can soften hearts, open doors for prayer, and spark hope where it’s been missing. Together, we’ve provided thousands of meals this year, and through every casserole, dessert, and delivery, we’ve lived out our calling to be the hands and feet of Jesus. Each meal shared is a message of love, and proof that true life change often starts with showing up for someone in need.

over 6,500 meals provided so far in 2025

familylife

At Springfield First, families of all shapes and sizes are part of FamilyLife! Our goal is simple; to help families strengthen their faith, build lasting connections, and grow together in relationship with Christ. We believe in walking through life side by side, offering encouragement, laughter, and support even when life gets busy or bumpy. Through FamilyLife, we’re creating space for joy, belonging, and faith-filled moments that bring generations together.

Faith, Family, and Fun: A Year of Connection

Strengthening families through faith, laughter, and love.

This year, FamilyLife has continued to grow as one of our core ministries, offering families opportunities to connect, serve, and experience God’s love in real and lasting ways. Whether gathering for a Family Movie Night, celebrating at Spring Fling, or dressing up for Fall Festival and Trunk or Treat, these events have become joyful spaces where faith and fun intertwine. They’re a reminder that building community can be as simple as sharing popcorn, laughter, and a moment of togetherness.

Each month, FamilyLife events bring Springfield First families together, and open our doors to the larger community. Families have told us things like, “We felt so welcomed,” and, “It’s great to see the community coming together.” That’s exactly what we hope for: a place where everyone, whether new to the church or longtime members, can feel at home.

Our biggest celebration of the year, VBS, continues to be a highlight for kids, families, and volunteers alike. During that special week, children learn about Jesus through worship, crafts, games, and stories, while also serving through hands-on mission projects that teach them the joy of giving. It’s a time when the next generation of believers is equipped to live out their faith, and parents get to see firsthand what true life change looks like through their children’s eyes.

FamilyLife also provides ways for adults to grow in faith and service. Many families volunteer together at events, helping with setup, snacks, crafts, and games. Through serving side by side, parents model what it means to share God’s love with others, planting seeds of generosity and compassion in their children’s hearts.

Through every FamilyLife event, our goal remains the same: to nurture strong families, joyful faith, and genuine community. As we look ahead, we celebrate what God has done and all that He will continue to do as we grow in connection and walk in faith together.

vbs celebration Sunday

fall festival

Family Movie Night: Faith, Popcorn, & Fellowship

Our Family Movie Nights bring together laughter, community, and connection. Families gather for a night of fun and fellowship, complete with snacks, smiles, and shared joy. These evenings are a simple reminder that church family is more than Sunday mornings; it’s about doing life together and finding faith in everyday moments.

VBS Celebration Sunday

Our VBS kids led a joyful morning of worship, sharing songs and stories from an incredible week of fun and faith. Families filled the Sanctuary to celebrate together, followed by food, games, and fellowship — a perfect ending to an amazing week!

Fall Festival & Trunk or Treat: Community, Connection, & Fun

The Fall Festival has become one of our biggest community events of the year! With decorated trunks, games, candy, and plenty of smiles, families from both our church and neighborhood come together for a day of joy and fellowship. It’s more than just fun; it’s faith in action, creating moments of belonging and connection for everyone who attends.

V B S

Never the same: a week that changed everything

From June 9–13, sixteen students and four leaders packed their bags, loaded up the vans, and made their way to Never the Same Camp at Indiana Wesleyan University. We expected an exciting week, but what we experienced was life-changing.

The days were filled with energy and joy: powerful worship, convicting messages, small group conversations that dug deep, and campwide competitions that brought the fun and the fire. Every moment was intentional. Every activity pointed not only students, but also leaders, closer to Jesus. And by the end of the week, none of us were the same.

Throughout the week:

• 9 students recommitted their lives to Jesus, stepping boldly back into the faith

• 1 student made the life-changing decision to say “yes” to Jesus for the very first time

• 1 student felt the call to take the next step and be baptized

• 2 students felt called to pursue vocational ministry

Those numbers represent stories, real students who encountered the presence of God in a way that changed them from the inside out. And that’s what this week was all about. It wasn’t just a break from routine. It was purposeful. At Never the Same Camp, students don’t just hear about Jesus, they experience Him, in community, worship, and moments of quiet surrender. It’s the kind of week that echoes long after the bags are unpacked.

And let’s not forget the fun. From messy games and late-night conversations to spontaneous dance parties and snack runs, laughter was everywhere. One major highlight? StudentLife taking FIRST PLACE in the camp-wide talent show with their hilarious and creative retelling of the story of Jesus’ birth, a performance that had the whole room cheering and laughing until they cried. It was one of many moments where joy and faith came together in the best way.

Camp was more than just a trip: it was a turning point.

We came back with sore muscles, raspy voices, and full hearts. And while the week has ended, the work God began in our students is just getting started.

Because when you encounter Jesus like this, you don’t go back to normal.

You leave never the same.

Natalie Emery StudentLife Director

men's ministry

At Springfield First, our Men’s Ministry is growing into a vibrant community of faith-fueled men committed to walking with Christ and supporting one another through every season of life. This ministry is about more than just events — it’s about building lasting relationships rooted in God’s Word, accountability, and service. Together, we’re learning what it means to lead with strength, live with purpose, and grow in grace.

Forging Faith and Friendship: A Year of Growth

Building a brotherhood of faith-fueled men

This year has been one of building, both in fellowship and in faith. From friendly competition at our Trivia Night to meaningful conversations around the bonfire, men have found space to connect, relax, and strengthen their walk with God. The laughter shared, stories told, and prayers offered have helped lay a strong foundation for what’s to come.

Our cookout brought men together around the grill and the table, two of the best places for conversation and community. It wasn’t just about good food (though there was plenty of that); it was about connection, taking time to slow down and build relationships that remind us we don’t have to walk alone.

Each year, our church hosts the Iron Sharpens Iron Men's Conference, a powerful day of worship, teaching, and encouragement. This event equips men to grow as spiritual leaders in their homes, workplaces, and communities, living out Proverbs 27:17: “As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.”

These gatherings may seem simple, a fire, a game, a meal, but through them, we’ve seen true life change begin. When men come together with open hearts and shared purpose, God forges something lasting: strength through faith, courage through community, and transformation through Christ.

Men's Ministry cookout on July 18

Men's Ministry Bible Trivia Night

Over 30 men gathered for an evening of faith, fellowship, and conversation at the Men's Ministry Bonfire Night. Laughter, prayer, and shared stories made it a memorable night of connection and brotherhood.

Men from Springfield First and the surrounding community gathered for a powerful day of worship, encouragement, and teaching at the Iron Sharpens Iron Men's Conference. Together, they were challenged and inspired to grow in faith and leadership.

15:10 women's ministry

Named after 1 Corinthians 15:10, our Women’s Ministry is built on a simple truth: "But because God was so gracious, so very generous, here I am. And I'm not about to let His grace go to waste." Through 15:10 Women's Ministry, we strive to cultivate strength and grace in a complex world, creating a community where women are encouraged in love, equipped through faith, and empowered to share Jesus wherever they go.

Cultivating Strength and Grace in a Complex World

Encouraging. Equipping. Empowering.

This past year, our Women’s Ministry has been a living reflection of our mission: cultivating strength and grace in a complex world. In every season, we’ve seen women discover deeper faith, form lasting friendships, and live boldly as followers of Jesus. Through every event, conversation, and prayer shared, our heart has remained the same: to encourage, equip, and empower women to walk confidently in their faith and share it with the world around them.

Encouraging women has always been at the core of what we do. Whether through laughter at a Bunco Night, creativity at a Craft Fair, or worship at our Live Boldly Women’s Conference, we’ve created spaces for women to feel known, valued, and loved. The conference united women from every generation, reminding us that no matter our story or stage of life, God meets us right where we are. Together, we were reminded that we don’t have to walk through life alone; we have each other and the unshakable presence of God.

Through Bible studies, devotionals, and our Women’s Retreat, we’ve focused on equipping women with a strong foundation of faith. The retreat became a sacred space to rest, reflect, and reconnect, a weekend where burdens were lifted, tears were shared, and hearts were renewed. It reminded us that true strength doesn’t come from doing it all, but from leaning into God’s Word and learning to trust His timing. Many left saying they couldn’t wait to come back and bring someone new next time, a beautiful sign of faith multiplied.

And as God continues to move through this ministry, we’ve seen women become empowered to use their gifts for His glory. At our Craft Fair & Bake Sale, women shared their creativity and talents to bless others, raising over $2,000 to support future events and scholarships. One woman reflected, “I finally feel like I’m using my gifts for God, creating something that brings joy and helps others.” This spirit of joyful generosity continues to ripple outward, showing how God uses each of us to make an eternal impact.

In a world that can feel overwhelming, our Women’s Ministry remains a place of hope and belonging, where women can grow in grace, find their strength in Christ, and carry that light into their homes, workplaces, and communities. Together, we are cultivating strength and grace, encouraging one another through love, equipping one another through truth, and empowering one another through faith.

“I finally feel like I’m using my gifts for God; creating something that brings joy and helps others.”

Through creativity and generosity, women of Springfield First used their talents to serve others while raising over $2,000 to support future ministry events and scholarships. The event reminded us that empowerment happens when we use what God has placed in our hands to bless those around us.

Left to right: Bev Albarracin, Dara Bose, Dorothy Gayton, Katelyn Cecil, Sally Lisnek, & Kristina Fowler

“I saw myself in the stories of the speakers. It reminded me that no matter what I’ve been through, God is still writing my story.” This year’s conference embodied our call to live boldly from Isaiah 41:10, "Do not be afraid, for I am with you." Women from every generation came together to worship, learn, and rediscover courage in God’s presence. Each message encouraged us to stand strong in faith and reminded us that true boldness begins with trusting God completely.

“Great trip! It was exactally what my soul needed, from the late night trips to Buc-ee's and Hobby Lobby, to the laughter and tears, I cannot wait for another women's retreat! I feel like I found my people."

“It was a safe space to breathe, to share, and to remember that we’re not alone.” Our retreat offered sacred time to pause, study God’s Word, and draw closer to Him and one another. Through devotionals, journaling, and heartfelt conversations, women were equipped with renewed faith and the reminder that strength and grace come from abiding in God’s presence.

Bunco fun!

senior ministries

At Springfield First, Senior Ministries is one of our most active and vibrant communities. Open to anyone age 55 and older, this ministry offers a welcoming place for seniors to grow in faith, form meaningful friendships, and continue living purposefully for Christ. Through fellowship gatherings, Bible studies, classes, crafting, and group outings, participants stay connected and engaged in every season of life.

Senior ministries: Rooted in Faith, Growing in Joy

Living life to the fullest through connection, service, and joy

Senior Ministries continues to flourish, providing opportunities each week for fellowship, spiritual growth, and community. From game days and crafting groups to Bible studies and Sunday morning classes, there’s always something happening, and every gathering carries the same goal: to connect, encourage, and uplift one another in faith.

The Speaker Series has become a special part of this ministry, welcoming guests who share helpful and practical information for those in or nearing retirement. These sessions have covered everything from health and wellness to financial guidance and spiritual encouragement, all designed to help our seniors live confidently and joyfully.

Each year, one of the most anticipated events is the Senior and Adult Gala, a cherished evening of great food, entertainment, and laughter. It’s a time to celebrate friendship, reflect on blessings, and simply enjoy being together.

Through every class, event, and conversation, our Senior Ministries continue to show what it means to live fully in Christ, embracing faith, friendship, and purpose with joy and grace.

In September we visited the Illinois Assistive Technology Program to learn about equipment and home installations that can make life easier for persons with a variety of disabilities.

Christie Goleman, Licensed Clinical Social Worker with Advanced Healthcare, spoke about both public and private-pay resources in our community: skilled nursing care in the home, programs offered through Senior Services of Central Illinois, emergency response systems available for your home, transportation options, and private-pay caregiver services.

Round-table discussion was held with Jackie Pope-Ganser from Hands of God Hospice about how hospice cares for the family as well as the person who is near end-of-life.

even our

The Senior and Adult Gala is a beloved tradition at Springfield First. In October 2024, laughter filled the room as guests enjoyed dinner, fellowship, and entertainment from comedian Rik Roberts, who brought Barney Fife to life! The evening overflowed with joy and community — and

own Ray Ogden joined the fun on stage!

Worship

At Springfield First, worship is more than a weekly service — it’s the heartbeat of who we are. Whether through contemporary praise or traditional hymns, our worship unites us as one body, one voice, and one family in Christ. Worship gives us space to pause, refocus, and remember what truly matters: the presence of God at the center of it all.

Rooted, Renewed, and Reflective: A Year of Worship and Growth

This year, our Worship Ministry invited us to draw near to God in meaningful and transformative ways. Across our three weekly services we’ve experienced the beauty of worship that transcends style and speaks directly to the heart.

One of the most powerful moments this year came through Abide: A Night of Worship. Rooted in John 15, the evening centered around Jesus’ call to “abide in Me, as I abide in you.” In a world that moves fast and demands much, Abide reminded us to pause, to remain in His love and rest in His presence. Through uplifting music, prayer, and reflection, the night became a sacred space to refocus and recharge our faith.

As Allison Means shared that evening, abiding isn’t about doing nothing; it’s about doing everything with God. Whether washing dishes, driving to work, or caring for family, we can remain in His presence, allowing His love to shape every moment. Abide was more than a worship night; it was a lifestyle reminder to stay connected to the Vine and let God’s presence renew us daily.

For those who find comfort in tradition, Renew: Traditional Worship Experience is a meditative event with hymns, Scripture, and prayer. Held during the holiday season, it is a time to quiet our hearts and prepare for the joy of Christ’s birth. Together, Abide and Renew have shown us that worship can be both restful and restorative, an intentional pause that refreshes the soul.

Our Spring and Christmas Cantatas also bring our congregation together in powerful ways. Through the voices of our choir, the beauty of handbells, and the grandeur of an orchestra, these moments of worship lift our hearts and remind us of the wonder of God’s story.

As we look to the future, we’re excited to continue these worship experiences that draw us closer to God and one another. Whether in song, silence, or Scripture, we will continue to abide in His presence, remaining rooted, renewed, and ready to bear fruit for His kingdom.

Worship spaces

Worship doesn’t only happen within the walls of our Sanctuary and CLC, it happens in the quiet places where we draw near to God. At Springfield First, we’ve created sacred spaces that invite reflection, prayer, and connection with the Creator through His creation.

Meeting God in Stillness and Creation

Our Prayer Garden and Walking Path offer peaceful places to slow down, breathe deeply, and spend time with the Lord. Whether it’s a moment of solitude beneath the trees, a walk in conversation with God, or journaling beside the garden cross, these spaces remind us that worship is more than a song, it’s a way of life.

These additions stand as a reflection of our church’s heart: to make room for people to encounter God in every season, in every step, and in every still moment.

Prayer Garden Dedication

On September 21, we gathered to dedicate our new Prayer Garden, a sacred space created for anyone seeking peace, prayer, and time with God. Built in memory of Mac Shotwell, who always made sure his churches had places for prayer, the garden now stands as a lasting tribute to that same spirit of devotion. Open 24/7, it offers quiet places for reflection, journaling, or simply resting in God’s presence. Designed for both personal and small group use, the garden will continue to grow as a space for prayer walks, Bible study, and connection with the Lord. We give thanks to everyone who helped make this vision a reality and pray it becomes a true meeting place of people and their God.

Walking Path Extension

Thanks to the joyful generosity of our congregation, the Walking Path has been extended through the wooded area, creating a serene new route to enjoy God’s creation. The path now winds around the church, through the parking lot, past the pond, and into the trees — a perfect place to reflect, pray, or simply breathe in the beauty of nature.

We invite you to take a walk, clear your mind, and let your soul rest in His presence. Whether you come for prayer, peace, or purpose, this path is a reminder that God walks with us every step of the way.

JOIN US FOR CHRITMAS EVE:

2PM & 4PM -CONTEMPORARY 7PM - TRADITIONAL

Save the dates

March 21, 2026

Springfield First Family,

In 2021, we dreamed of the day when Springfield First would be multiplying disciples, bringing compassion, and sharing the hope of Jesus with the Springfield community and beyond.

It has been four years since we introduced this Vision and our ‘Vision Frame’ that includes our Vision, Mission, Values, Strategies, and Measures. Over this time, we’ve seen God at work in incredible ways.

Our Vision led us to have the 5:3:1 challenge (praying for 5, inviting 3, and bringing 1). The next year we focused on praying for our community, which led into a theme of “Renewal - Transformed Within, Impact Beyond." From there we encouraged everyone to Tell Your Story in order to share Christ with those you encounter every day.

Many of our ongoing ministries and events have grown out of this Vision Frame, including our Fall Festival, Family Movie Night, Kids’ Musical, and Meals Ministry that includes Feed Springfield. We’ve partnered with Lindsay School and the James Project, and we started active Men's and Women's Ministries.

We also launched a Preschool which has grown to two classes with 28 kids; and a wait list.

We’ve built a Walking Path and a Prayer Garden and opened our facility up to the community. We now see hundreds of people on our campus throughout the week.

As a result of these efforts we have had new members join, baptisms, and guests attending worship each week. And attendance has increased too!

Our Vision has guided us well, but as we continue to grow and follow God’s call, it’s time to once again look forward with an updated Vision:

“Springfield First glorifies God by striving to be a loving community of faith where all individuals are challenged to deepen their journey with Jesus through worshiping genuinely, connecting and serving, and experiencing life together.”

Just as our earlier Vision stirred excitement for the future and guided us to live out our unchanging Mission, “to see all generations experience true life change with Jesus,” this new Vision challenges us to love more deeply, serve more boldly, and continue building the Kingdom of God together.

I invite you to join us in this new Vision, and imagine what more God will do through Springfield First as we love and serve together.