Home

Visitors  |  Location  |  Worship Times  |  Contact Us        

About SMUMC

 
 


 

 

First-Time Visitors

Common Questions Asked About Church

We know attending a church can feel uncomfortable.  Here is what you can expect at Santa Margarita UMC.  As United Methodist Christians, we focus on Jesus, community, caring for those in need, and the journey of faith!

On Sunday, am I going to be conspicuous? You can expect 100+ at our 9 AM and 125+ people in worship at 10:40 AM, so you won't be conspicuous, but you will probably be noticed and greeted.  WE WILL CERTAINLY NOT ASK YOU TO STAND, RAISE YOUR HAND OR INTRODUCE YOURSELF!  We recognize that there is a fine line between not wanting to be embarrassed and not wanting to feel like nobody cares that you are there. We will care, but won't make you feel like a sore thumb.

What is it like?  At 9 AM, we are very relaxed, with a positive, upbeat feel. We have a band and use media and strong Biblical teaching in our messages. At 10:40AM we have a user-friendly traditional type service with a casual and relaxed approach. And, while we do sing hymns and read prayers together, you won't feel uncomfortable as the words aren't a secret ritual that you have to learn-we make it easy.  Monthly, we have our Communion, and anybody is welcome to come forward to share in this very special meal, in which we actively are reminded how much God loves us.

Will I be expected to give money?  If you visit with us, we want you to know that we will not be asking you for money.  In fact, when it comes time for the offering, we will ask you to let the plate go right past and not put anything in!  As a visitor we would like this experience to be a gift to you.

Who is welcome?  Everyone, no matter who they are or where they have been, are welcome at SMUMC.  Our diversity is our strength, and our welcome is universal.

What do I wear?  Our dress is casual (if that is how you are comfortable), or more dressy if you like to go to church in your Sunday best.  Neither our minister nor our choir wears robes at 10:40 AM; 9 AM is even more relaxed (jeans and tee shirts).

Are our children welcome? Yes! At the 9 and 10:40 worship, children are invited up for the interactive children's sermon and then go to Sunday School.  We have a nursery and cry room available for young children, or they may remain with you in worship.

Should I bring a cushion in case the service goes on forever? No!  Our service usually lasts a little over an hour.  Following both worship gatherings we have donuts and great coffee.