Lord’s Acre Festival

A Legacy Rooted in Faith, Generosity, and Community

The Lord’s Acre Festival at McCordsville United Methodist Church is a long-standing tradition grounded in faith, stewardship, and shared purpose.

The festival began in 1952, when the congregation was seeking a way to raise additional funds for a church parsonage — a home for its pastor. At the time, McCordsville was a largely agricultural community, and farmers committed the proceeds from one acre of crops to support the church. That act of giving became known as the Lord’s Acre, and the festival took its name from that tradition.

While a few families still honor the original practice today, the festival was created to expand the idea — inviting the entire community to participate in giving in whatever way they could.

How the Lord’s Acre Began

Not everyone in the congregation was a farmer, but everyone found a way to give.

Some families donated a day’s worth of profits from selling eggs. A local business owner contributed the coins collected from the soft drink machine out front. Each gift reflected the same spirit — offering what one could in faith and generosity.

These offerings were presented during a worship service held outdoors under the festival tent on the Sunday following the celebration, marking the close of the Lord’s Acre weekend with gratitude and thanksgiving.

A Tradition That Grows With the Community

After the parsonage goal was met, the Lord’s Acre Festival did not end. Instead, it continued as a way to meet the changing needs of the church and community.

Over the years, funds raised through the festival have supported:

• A new roof for the church

• Restoration of stained-glass windows

• Food to stock a community food pantry

• Construction of a playground in memory of a young boy from the congregation

Each generation has shaped the Lord’s Acre around the needs of its time, while holding fast to the same spirit of stewardship that began more than seven decades ago.

Today, the Lord’s Acre Festival continues that legacy by supporting the Parish House, a space that serves ministry, outreach, and church life throughout the year.

What to Expect During the Festival

The modern Lord’s Acre Festival blends tradition with community celebration and typically includes:

• A two-day community fish fry

• A Friday night classic car show

• Outdoor vendors featuring local artisans and businesses

• A silent auction

• Live music and scheduled entertainment under the music tent

• Kid-friendly activities, games, and face painting

• Touch-a-Truck with local first responders

Menus, entertainment schedules, vendor lists, and auction details are shared as the festival approaches.

Why the Lord’s Acre Matters

Funds raised through the Lord’s Acre Festival directly support the Parish House, helping maintain and preserve a space that serves ministries, outreach programs, and church life throughout the year.

Just as one acre once helped build the future of the church, the Lord’s Acre Festival continues that legacy — many hands contributing toward one shared purpose.

A Weekend That Ends in Worship

The Lord’s Acre Festival concludes with a special worship service on Sunday, offering a time to reflect, give thanks, and celebrate the work accomplished together.

All are welcome to attend and share in this meaningful close to the Lord’s Acre weekend.

Save the Dates

Festival: Friday & Saturday, September 18 & 19, 2026
Special Worship Service: Sunday, September 20, 2026

Additional details will be added as the festival approaches.

Now in its 74th year, the Lord’s Acre Festival continues a legacy that began with one acre and a shared commitment to give. As the church looks toward the 75th celebration, the tradition remains firmly rooted in faith, generosity, and community — with many hands still tending what was first planted in 1952.

Updates are shared on this website and on Facebook as the festival approaches.