First Time Here?

How do I find out what’s going on at Jackson FUMC?

On the homepage of this website, click on the Calendar link for a complete listing of church events. We also send out a weekly newsletter, the First Edition, which lists events and other information about how God is at work in and through FUMC. The weekly worship bulletin also contains announcements about upcoming events.

Will I get lost in the crowds?

FUMC is a large church with many members – but this gives us the opportunity to offer many varied programs and studies. We highly recommend that everyone get involved in a small group. Getting to know the members of your Sunday School Class, Bible study group, or volunteer committee is a great way to feel connected.

What worship opportunities are available?

First Awakening at 8:55 a.m. features contemporary praise and worship music, led by the First Awakening band.  Multimedia presentations including video and lighting are used throughout the service.

The traditional service at 11:00 a.m. features music lead by the Sanctuary Choir with organ and piano.  Creeds, responsive readings and calls to worship are used in this worship service.

Where do my children go during the service?

All children are welcome to attend the various services with their parents. Nursery service is available for children birth to age 3 every Sunday morning from 8:15 to 12:00. A pager is provided each parent in case of an emergency. During the 9:00 and 11:00 worship services, children are invited to the chancel to “Moments with Children”, a time during which one of the pastors sits down with the children and briefly talks with them about a topic based on the day’s sermon. Following that, the children may return to sit with their parents or go with the Children’s Ministry leaders to Children’s Worship. While children are in Children's Worship, they participate in an interactive based worship experience, hearing the stories of the Bible and having opportunity to respond by working with a story or through art.

Do I have to be a member to receive Holy Communion?

The communion table of the United Methodist Church is an open table. You do not have to be a member to partake. The invitation to the table is an invitation to a personal and lasting relationship with God through Jesus Christ. Everyone is welcomed at the table. This includes persons of any age.

How do I get involved at First United Methodist Church?

Everything offered at First United Methodist Church is for anyone willing to participate, both visitors and members alike. Check the Events sections of our website, join us each Sunday to get up to the minute announcements of events at First United Methodist Church, or talk with one of our staff about an area in which you would like to participate.

What is expected of members?

All members at the time of joining pledge to support the church with their prayers, presence, giving, service, and daily witness. We believe it is crucial to grow in faith by participating in small group study and fellowship. We believe also that we are called to serve God by volunteering in service to the congregation, the community, and the world. We believe, as faithful disciples, in giving regularly and in proportion to our income.

How can I join First United Methodist Church?

Membership may be entered into through a profession of faith in Jesus Christ or by transferring from another congregation. The United Methodist Church accepts the baptism and membership of persons coming from other denominations. Pastors or staff are eager to discuss membership and any questions you might have. An invitation is given at the close of most worship services and you may come forward during the singing of the closing hymn. Newcomer Classes are offered in the Spring and Fall for those considering membership.