First United Methodist of Charlottesville offers four distinctly different worship services each week. We invite you to join us on Sunday morning and Wednesday evening. People of all ages are welcome at any service, and childcare is always provided.

8:30 Service | 9:30 Incredible Journey | 11:00 Traditional
Wednesday evening Communion

Our early service on Sunday is held in the intimate setting of our Chapel and features a blend of traditional worship liturgy, hymns and praise songs.

The Celebration Singers, a contemporary choral ensemble, often provides special music for this service. Many people start their Sunday with this service followed by coffee and fellowship and then a choice of classes for all ages, which start at 9:30 a.m.

 

 

"Come as you are" on Sunday mornings at 9:30 a.m. to The Incredible Journey, our contemporary service held in the Fellowship Hall.

Worship at IJ is considerd "multi-sensory" meaning that we use film clips, video projection, live action skits and all sorts of unexpected approaches to help make the Gospel story and the week's theme come alive in relevant and memorable ways.

Music for this service is contemporary and varied and is usually provided by The Incredible Journey Band, a talented group of singers and musicians. In 2004, the IJ Band released an album of music entitled "Steps of Faith" which includes original songs penned by band members and covers of popular worship favorites. First-time visitors to the IJ service receive a free copy of the album.

 

 

At 11:00 a.m. our Traditional service comes alive with the sound of First Church's mighty pipe organ and chancel choir.

The combination of traditional order of United Methodist worship, familiar hymns from the UM Hymnal, and the classical and elegant setting of our Sanctuary provide a familiar and welcoming environment for many who have grown up "in the church".

Regardless of style and setting, each of our three services is usually preached by our senior pastor, Dr. Harry Kennon, ensuring that the Word and teaching remain consistent throughout our church family.

 

 

Each Wednesday at 5:30 p.m. we celebrate the sacrament of Holy Communion in our intimate chapel setting. This short, mid-week service (lasting approximately 30 minutes) provides an opportunity for prayer, reflection and the partaking of the Holy sacrament.

On the first Sunday of every month, Communion is celebrated within each of our three worship services. The United Methodist Church practices an open communion, meaning that you do not have to be member of our church or the United Methodist Church in order to partake of the sacrament.

 

"Our hearts, our minds and our doors are always open."

First United Methodist Church • 101 E. Jefferson Street • Charlottesville, VA 22902
Phone: (434) 296-6193 Office hours: 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. Mon-Thurs, 9 a.m. - 12 noon Friday
The Rev. Harry G. Kennon,
pastor