Q. How do most of your congregation dress; casual, business casual, formal?
A. Dress comfortably! Our services are “come as you are.” There are no expectations and no dress code. You will be warmly welcomed whether you wear jeans and a t-shirt or a 3-piece suit…whether you are a life-long believer or just checking out our church for the first time…whether you are full of faith or full of doubt. We welcome you!

 

Q. What words does your church use that are particular to your church – Baptism, Communion, Sacraments?
A. With many other Protestants, we recognize the two sacraments in which Christ himself participated: Baptism and the Lord’s Supper.

Baptism
* Through baptism we are joined with the church and with Christians everywhere. * Baptism is a symbol of new life and a sign of God’s love and forgiveness of our sins. *Persons of any age can be baptized. * We baptize by sprinkling, immersion, or pouring. * A person receives the sacrament of baptism only once in his or her life.

The Lord’s Supper (Holy Communion, Eucharist)
* The Lord’s Supper is a holy meal of bread and wine (fruit of the vine, grape juice) that symbolizes the body and blood of Christ. * The Lord’s Supper recalls the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus and celebrates the unity of all the members of God’s family. * By sharing this meal, we give thanks for Christ’s sacrifice and are nourished and empowered to go into the world in mission and ministry. * We practice “open communion”, welcoming all who love Christ, repent of their sin, and seek to live in peace with one another.

 

Q. What are the rules for taking Communion?
A. United Methodist Christians practice what we call an “open table”, which means that all Christians, regardless of denomination, are welcome to participate in Holy Communion. Communion is served usually on the first Sunday of each month during our regular Sunday worship.

Q. Where & when are the church services?
A. Our Sunday Morning Worship is held in the sanctuary at each of our churches.
Hammond UMC and La Place UMC have 9:00 a.m. worship services. Lovington UMC’s has Worship at 10:00 a.m., and Cerro Gordo worship is at 11:00 a.m.
For more information and Locations click on the OUR Churches tab.

Q. How would you describe the church services?
A. In our worship we will express our hearts to God through music, seek God’s intercession through individual and corporate prayer, and hear teaching of God’s word.

Q. Will I have to say anything or sign anything?
A. Don’t worry…you will not be put on the spot, singled-out, or embarrassed. To have a record of your attendance, we would like you to fill out an attendance pad.

Q. How does your church handle singing?
A. We make a joyful noise unto the Lord. You may raise your hands or clap as the Spirit moves you. Hymnals are provided in the pews. Cerro Gordo UMC projects the words of hymns on a screen.

 

 

Q. Are children allowed to worship in the services with their parents or does your church provide a children’s worship?
A. Children of all ages are welcome in worship! However, for your convenience, we do offer a nursery with staff for children on Sundays.

Q. Is there a nursery for infants and toddlers?
A. For your convenience, we do offer a nursery for children on Sundays.

Q. What about Christian education?
A. Sunday School classes for all ages are offered at each location either before or after the Sunday morning worship service. In addition, a variety of Bible studies, book studies, lectures, etc. are available throughout the year. Check out the Sunday School page for more details.

 

Q. Do I need to give my money?
A. If you are a guest, you are not expected to ‘Tithe” or give an “Offering”. These are things that members or regular attenders do. There is not an admission cost. The money received through offerings goes toward paying staff, keep the lights on and do ministry. If you feel compelled to give on Sunday to support the ministry, please feel free, but know it’s not an expectation.

Q. How does one donate, via an offering plate that is passed, drop box, online?
A. Tithes, gifts and offerings are received by a plate passed in the pews during Sunday Worship. Online giving will be available soon through PayPal.

Q. How can I learn more about joining the United Methodist?
A. The United Methodist church welcomes new members in three ways: baptism on profession of faith, re-affirmation of faith, or transfer from another Christian church. For information speak with our Pastor.

Q. Where can I park?
A. You can park anywhere you like. We have plenty of on street parking around our buildings, and off street parking at the Cerro Gordo location.