Welcome to your first visit!
When entering the main parking lot from Cooper Road on your first visit, you are welcome to park where you want! Of course, there are specific spaces marked for visitor parking that you are welcome to use as our guest. To find them, drive to the front of the parking lot. The visitor spaces are marked at the front of either parking lane as the spaces closest to the church. You are also welcome to pull up to the front curb and unload any passengers there before parking your car.
Worship Leader, Randy, leading the services.
What will Sunday morning be like?
8:00 am During our first service we have music from the Chancel Choir, Organist, Pianist, and sometimes our Bell Choir or other special music. Communion is served on the first Sunday of every month. Children are welcome in worship and we also have nursery and Sunday school for elementary children. Children
9:30 am This worship celebration includes organ, guitar and drums, handbells, singers, choirs, and joyous celebration. Communion is served on the first Sunday of the month. Children are welcome in worship and we have nursery and Sunday school for students of all ages. Children, Youth, Family
After all services you are welcome to enjoy delicious snacks (like veggies, crackers, cheese) and coffee and other drinks in the Activity Center (the building located to the south of the Sanctuary or left as you exit the church).
We also have a variety of Study and small groups for adults on Sunday morning and throughout the week. Adult Education
The youth group community often meets after the second service at 11AM for fun, devotionals, mission, and community. Youth
May I take Communion the first time I come?
The Communion Table is open to anyone who has a “hungry heart”, meaning if you feel a desire to come and receive the bread and cup, we welcome you to come and meet God in communion. From children to adults, members or first-time worshippers all who come are welcome to take part in this Holy Mystery. The Methodist tradition is to serve grape juice rather than wine as part of this openness. Read more about what Communion means to United Methodist people here.
Where do my children go during service?
All are welcome in Worship Service. That said, we also have different options for children and youth depending on what service time you attend. Our Nursery is available in both services for kids, 6 months through preschool. During First Service we have Sunday school for elementary age students. During Second Service we have Sunday School available from Preschool through Senior High. More information on our Nursery, Children’s Ministry and Youth Ministry are available at the red Welcome Cart by the front doors. We have social media along with texting and email news that you will be able to join for communication about student opportunities.
Is there a dress code for church?
No. Wear what makes you comfortable. It is Arizona and it can get hot! When you worship with us you will find people in a whole range of clothing, from shorts and sandals to formal dress. We encourage you to come as you are and experience the love of Christ.
How early should I arrive for service on my first visit?
On your first visit we encourage you to arrive 10-15 minutes before the start of worship. This will help you not feel rushed in finding a parking space and navigating around our campus. We encourage you to check in at our red Welcome Cart, located just outside of our Sanctuary. Friendly volunteers stand ready there to help you with any questions or directions you may need. In fact you can click here to fill out a form letting us know you are coming and to keep an eye out to meet you.
Additional Questions?
If you have any questions about your first visit, please contact us at connections@gilbertumc.org.