WHAT TO EXPECT
What should I wear?
At First Church we value authentic self-expression. So wear what makes you comfortable and what makes you feel like you!
Parking
We have a small parking lot on the Aiken Avenue side of the church and another slightly larger lot on the center avenue side. All on-street parking in the vicinity of the church is free on Sundays.
Entrance
You can enter the church either at the Centre Avenue doors (at the top of the big steps--these doors are open for Sunday worship) or the Aiken Avenue doors (behind the rainbow pillars). We know, the building can be a bit imposing. But the people inside are warm and welcoming! If you come in before worship, you’re likely to meet one of our friendly greeters who will give you a bulletin and a big smile and answer any questions you may have.
Are kids welcome in worship?
Worship at First Church is intergenerational. Kids not only whole-heartedly welcomed, they’re an important part of our worshipping community. So, kids of all ages are always welcome to stay in the sanctuary for the duration worship. But we recognize that from time to time everyone needs a break. So infants and toddlers are welcome to spend time in the nursery (just outside the sanctuary) with our nurturing and professional childcare specialist. And sometimes our older kids (K-5th grade) are invited to the chapel during part of the service to have a worship experience specifically oriented to their age.
What are some important values at FUMC?
First United Methodist Church of Pittsburgh is a community that believes in the inherent dignity and worth of each person. When we are in community together, we can demonstrate that we see the sacred worth of one another in many simple but important ways.
We can ask how someone might like to be greeted—some folks are hand shakers, some prefer just a hello—but no matter our preferences, respecting a person’s consent and personal boundaries is one of the best ways we can show that we truly care for one another.
We can share our pronouns when introducing ourselves, in order to create a space that respects and celebrates the identity of each human being.
Another way we welcome folks into our worship community is by offering gluten-free bread and non-alcoholic grape juice for communion, for truly, the communion table is God’s table where all are welcome to receive.
Read our Hospitality Statement and our Living Stones to look more deeply into the core values of our community.
Am I welcome in worship?
First United Methodist Church of Pittsburgh affirms that God’s grace is present in all people. We intentionally seek openly and fully to include all persons regardless of age, race, ethnicity, immigration status, disability, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, marital status, education, or economic condition. We commit ourselves to be in ministry for and with all people, regardless of their spiritual path or political perspective and independent of society’s regard. God blesses us all so that together we can be God’s instruments of blessing in the world.
Our church nurtures creativity, talents, and gifts. People are encouraged to try new things.