Worship Times
8:30AM Traditional Worship Service
This service is filled with the history and tradition of the United Methodist Church offering a style of worship that features the great hymns of our faith led by our chancel choir accompanied by piano and traditional pipe organ. This service is held in the main sanctuary.
11:00AM Contemporary Worship Service
This service offers the opportunity for people of all ages and generations to come together to celebrate all that God has done and is doing. With contemporary music lead by our praise band, children, youth and adults creatively engage with God, and each other, through song, testimony, prayer, art and conversation. There will be a sermon, but don’t expect a 20 minute lecture – your thoughts are valued. This service is held in the fellowship hall.
John Wesley on singing hymns:
“Learn these Tunes before you learn any others…
Sing them exactly as they are printed here without altering or mending them at all…
Sing ALL. See that you join with the congregation as frequently as you can…
Sing lustily and with a good courage. Beware of singing as if you were half dead, or half asleep; but lift up your voice with strength…
Sing modestly. Do not bawl, so as to be heard above or distinct from the rest of the congregation, that you may not destroy the harmony…
Sing in Time. Whatever time is sung, be sure to keep with it. Do not run before nor stay behind it…
and take care not to sing too slow…
Above all sing spiritually. Have an eye to God in every word you sing. Aim at pleasing Him more than yourself or any other creature.”
“Make a joyful noise unto the Lord!”
Chancel Choir
A choir of mixed voices singing classical pieces, contemporary anthems, gospel songs, and spirituals. The choir regularly sings for the 8:30AM Traditional Service in the Sanctuary. All are welcome!
Handbells
Ateam of musicians ringing sacred literature on Schulmerich handbells. Prior music reading experience is helpful but not required. This group generally rings at the 8:30AM Traditional service.
Women’s Ensemble
Featured vocal ensemble singing sacred songs in three-part harmony. Participation is by invitation of the director. Sings at both traditional services.
Mixed Ensemble
This is a featured vocal ensemble of men and women singing sacred songs in four parts. Participation is by invitation of the director. Sings at both traditional services.
Special Worship Events
Each year we work hard to present special productions during the Christmas and Easter seasons. These are extended musical presentations featuring the Sanctuary Choir, drama, and professional orchestra.
Praise Band
A mix of instrumentalists and singers, specializing in contemporary Christian worship songs. The Praise Band regularly leads the 11:00AM Table Service in the Fellowship Hall.
Children’s Choir
Son-Shine Children’s Choir is an after school Bible and music program that meets on Wednesdays during the school year. This ministry is focused around teaching Biblical principles, voice development and developing relationships with others and Christ.
More Opportunities to Serve
Audio/Video
The A/V ministry is an important part of our Worship Service. It helps to enhance everyone’s worship experience while minimizing distractions.
Ushers
The ministry of ushering is a vital part of any church ministry. Ushers represent the church in a very visible way, and help set the tone in preparation for the worship service, as well as assist with the smooth operation within the service.
Acolytes
Acolytes are responsible for helping in the worship services with candle lighting, extinguishing, taking up of the offering and helping with communion. Children and students from 3rd grade to twelfth grade are invited to serve.
Altar
The Altar Guild is a group of volunteers who coordinate and assist with the sacred elements, special events, and regular worship of the church. Guild members often work behind the scenes on tasks such as arranging the altars and communion tables with appropriate cloths, vessels, elements and symbols of the season.
You are cordially invited to become a part of the Music Ministry of First United Methodist Church. If you feel led to participate in any of these ministries, please contact Melissa Ellenburg at music@fwbfumc.org.