LifeGroup Sign-ups
At VFC, there’s a LifeGroup for YOU! LifeGroups are all about creating space to grow—both in our relationship with God and in community with others. Whether you’re looking to deepen your faith, connect with new friends, or find encouragement, there’s a group waiting for you.
Sign-Up Sundays: September 7th & 14th, right after our 10:30am service
Fall LifeGroups Begin: September 28th and run for 8 weeks
We believe we’re better together, and LifeGroups are the perfect way to live that out. We offer a variety of groups for many different interest and stages of life.
Pastor Appreciation Sunday
Pastor Appreciation Day is a special time to honor and thank the spiritual leaders who faithfully serve and shepherd our church family. Scripture reminds us that appreciating and honoring our pastors is a biblical concept—“Let the elders who rule well be considered worthy of double honor, especially those who labor in preaching and teaching” (1 Timothy 5:17).
This year is extra meaningful as we celebrate Pastors Doug & Angela’s 10 years of ministry at VFC! We are so grateful for their leadership and heart for people, as well as the dedication of Pastors Ethan & Mikayla.
Our church board will be accepting personal cards, letters of appreciation, love offerings, and gift cards prior to October 12th. Please bring all gifts to a board member: Gary Windhorst, John Carrano, or Tammy Kilpatrick.
Join us on Sunday, October 12th at 10:30am for a joyful celebration as we honor our pastors and thank God for their ministry among us
Pumpkin Patch
Fall fun is right around the corner! While we’re still finalizing this year’s opening date, VFC’s Pumpkin Patch will be open from October 8th to 31st daily—right here at Valparaiso First Church at 571 Valparaiso Parkway. We will have an incredible variety of pumpkins in all shapes, sizes, and colors—starting at just $1! Whether you’re carving, decorating, baking, or just embracing the season, you’ll find the perfect pumpkin here.
It’s more than just a pumpkin patch—it’s a place to make memories. Bring your family and friends to enjoy fun activities for all ages, soak in the fall atmosphere, and snap some photos in our picture-perfect settings.
Hours of Operation
Mon–Fri: 11 AM – 6 PM
Saturday: 10 AM – 6 PM
Sunday: 1 PM – 6 PM
Family Day at the Pumpkin Patch
Family Day at the Pumpkin Patch
Valparaiso First Church
Saturday, October 18th
11:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Fall is the perfect time to gather with friends and family—and VFC’s Family Day at the Pumpkin Patch is the place to be! Come enjoy a FREE day of fun for all ages, including: Bounce houses, Free popcorn & cotton candy, Pumpkin picking, Picture-perfect photo ops (great for Christmas cards!), Food trucks: That’s James Ice Cream & The Local’s Rollin Eatery, And new this year: Travelin’ Tom’s Coffee Truck with cozy fall drinks!
Whether you're hunting for the perfect pumpkin, snapping family photos, or just soaking in the fall vibes—this day is for YOU!
Flannel Sunday
Get ready for a cozy and heartfelt Thanksgiving celebration! Join us at VFC on Sunday, November 23rd at 10:30 AM for a morning of fellowship, worship, and God’s Word. Wear your favorite flannel and be part of this special, festive gathering—we can’t wait to celebrate with you!
Live Nativity
Celebrate the True Meaning of Christmas!
Experience the Christmas Story come to life with live actors, adorable animals, and a fun hayride. Make lasting family memories while enjoying free hot chocolate, delicious cookies, and the joy of Christmas unfolding before your eyes. After the hayride, stop by our craft tent for creative fun for the kids or spend time with our sweet bunnies.
Dates: December 12th, 13th & 14th
Time: 6:30 PM – 8:30 PM
Location: 571 Valparaiso Pkwy
We can’t wait to share the heart of the Christmas story with you—don’t miss this special tradition!