What to Expect
We know that visiting a new church for the first time can be an awkward experience so we want to be as helpful as we can in making your experience a good one. Below is some information that we hope will make your visit more enjoyable.
What is your worship service like?
Methodists value music and we sing at least 3 or 4 songs or hymns together. There is always a time for prayer, scripture reading, and a sermon most often preached by the pastor. At both services the children worship with their families and take part in a Children's moment during worship. Quiet pew activities are available each week for families.
The Sunday morning 9am service has a contemporary feel with a band, and our 11am service is more traditional in style, accompanied by piano and organ along with choir during the school year.
What should I wear?
You'll see people in jeans and casual shirts, and a few folks in bowties. Plenty of folks enjoy dressing up, but Northwest casual works well. You decide. We want you to feel at home. If it is a Sunday game for the Seahawks, you'll see plenty of people in team gear, and in the Spring, Mariners and Rainiers gear.
How long will the services last?
About 50 minutes to 1 hour.
Will I have to say anything, sign anything, or be singled out in any way?
While you will be greeted and welcomed when you walk in the door, we don't have a shake-your-neighbor's hand time. We know that feels off-putting for a lot of folks. Hopefully, you'll receive a visitor's packet with information about the church. There is a card in there you can submit if you'd like to connect with the pastor or give us your information.
It's ok to remain anonymous, too.
Am I expected to give money?
Nope. As a guest, we hope you do not feel pressure to give.
Giving is an act of worship for folks who consider Gig Harbor UMC their church home, allowing them to share in the church's ministry to the community of Gig Harbor and to the world. As a guest, please do not feel any pressure or obligation to give.
What about my kids? Is there child care available?
The nursery is available for children 6 weeks to 5 years, from 8:45 am - 12:15 pm every Sunday. Older children worship with families during the 9 & 11am services as we believe they are an important part of the congregation.
We haven't completely started up Sunday School yet, but we have activities for the kids during worship and a table for crafts between services with a volunteer who is happy to greet your child..
Are your facilities handicapped accessible?
Yes, the entire church facility including the foyer, restrooms, and sanctuary are wheelchair accessible. Educational rooms are on the same level as the sanctuary with no stairs impeding wheelchair access.
How do I get there, and is parking available?
Click here for a map and directions. Our parking lot is big.
Are you affiliated with a particular denomination?
Gig Harbor United Methodist Church is a congregation of The United Methodist Church and is part of 220 other congregations in the Pacific Northwest Conference which connects churches throughout Washington and Northern Idaho. While we are a United Methodist church, people who attend come from a wide variety of faith backgrounds.
But I still have more questions!
Please feel free to call us (253-851-2625) or email.
What is your worship service like?
Methodists value music and we sing at least 3 or 4 songs or hymns together. There is always a time for prayer, scripture reading, and a sermon most often preached by the pastor. At both services the children worship with their families and take part in a Children's moment during worship. Quiet pew activities are available each week for families.
The Sunday morning 9am service has a contemporary feel with a band, and our 11am service is more traditional in style, accompanied by piano and organ along with choir during the school year.
What should I wear?
You'll see people in jeans and casual shirts, and a few folks in bowties. Plenty of folks enjoy dressing up, but Northwest casual works well. You decide. We want you to feel at home. If it is a Sunday game for the Seahawks, you'll see plenty of people in team gear, and in the Spring, Mariners and Rainiers gear.
How long will the services last?
About 50 minutes to 1 hour.
Will I have to say anything, sign anything, or be singled out in any way?
While you will be greeted and welcomed when you walk in the door, we don't have a shake-your-neighbor's hand time. We know that feels off-putting for a lot of folks. Hopefully, you'll receive a visitor's packet with information about the church. There is a card in there you can submit if you'd like to connect with the pastor or give us your information.
It's ok to remain anonymous, too.
Am I expected to give money?
Nope. As a guest, we hope you do not feel pressure to give.
Giving is an act of worship for folks who consider Gig Harbor UMC their church home, allowing them to share in the church's ministry to the community of Gig Harbor and to the world. As a guest, please do not feel any pressure or obligation to give.
What about my kids? Is there child care available?
The nursery is available for children 6 weeks to 5 years, from 8:45 am - 12:15 pm every Sunday. Older children worship with families during the 9 & 11am services as we believe they are an important part of the congregation.
We haven't completely started up Sunday School yet, but we have activities for the kids during worship and a table for crafts between services with a volunteer who is happy to greet your child..
Are your facilities handicapped accessible?
Yes, the entire church facility including the foyer, restrooms, and sanctuary are wheelchair accessible. Educational rooms are on the same level as the sanctuary with no stairs impeding wheelchair access.
How do I get there, and is parking available?
Click here for a map and directions. Our parking lot is big.
Are you affiliated with a particular denomination?
Gig Harbor United Methodist Church is a congregation of The United Methodist Church and is part of 220 other congregations in the Pacific Northwest Conference which connects churches throughout Washington and Northern Idaho. While we are a United Methodist church, people who attend come from a wide variety of faith backgrounds.
But I still have more questions!
Please feel free to call us (253-851-2625) or email.