Worship Services

What time should I come?

We have one service on Sunday morning at 9:30 am, held in the Sanctuary.

The service begins with welcoming words and church news from one of our lay (not clergy) leaders. At this time we ask everyone to sign a registration book (red book, one in each pew) so that we know who has been worshipping with us. This is strictly voluntary and if you want to remain anonymous that is your choice!

Please try to be on time so you will not miss the announcements. However, if you are running late, don't stay away because of that. You are always welcome at any time.

Worship formally begins by "Bringing in the Light of Christ" (the Acolytes light the alter candles) and "Music for Meditation".

One of the ministers will then open with a prayer and we will sing a hymn or song.

What goes on during the service?

The printed Order of Worship will guide you as to will be happening in the service. It also indicates when, if you are able, you are requested to stand.

There is usually a Children's Message during which all children (and those young at heart) are invited to come and sit down front to listen to the message.

The service also includes a sermon, scripture (bible readings,) hymns, music performed by one of our music groups and a time for verbally sharing joys and concerns and prayers. An offering will also be taken.

The service generally ends with a benediction (closing prayer). The organist will then play the postlude during which time you are invited to leave the sanctuary and join the rest of the congregation in the Fellowship Room for refreshments (coffee, lemonade and cookies) and further conversation.

Do you have any hearing-assistance devices?

Yes. If you have hearing aids with a "T" coil (telephone pick up). If not, please ask one of the ushers to provide you with an individual hearing device.

What happens after the service?

Please join us for refreshments and conversation in the Fellowship Room. That is when we share what's been going on in our lives and just enjoy each others company. It's an ideal time for you to learn more about our church and who we are and for us to get to know you.

When is Communion?

A service of Holy Communion is celebrated on the first Sunday of the month and sometimes at other special Sundays and services.

Who can participate in Communion?

The United Methodist Church practices open Communion. Everyone (including children) who wishes to take Communion in the spirit with which it is offered is welcome to participate.

How is Communion served?

We usually celebrate Communion by "intinction". The ushers will direct people up the center aisle, where the communion servers hold the bread and "wine" (grape juice). Each person breaks off a piece of the bread and dips it in the grape juice and eats it. You may choose to kneel and pray at the prayer rails. Afterwards you return to your seat by the side aisle.

If you are unable to come to the front of the church for Communion please notify one of the ushers so that a server may bring the Communion elements to you.

Can I get a copy of a sermon?

The text of many of the sermons preached are available on our website in the sermon archive.

Getting Here

Where are you located?

We are located at 625 Randolph Street in downtown Napa.

The church is in the block surrounded by Randolph, Division, Franklin, and 4th.

How do I get there?

Click here for driving directions.

Church Van

We provide transportation upon request in a 9 passenger van which we regret is not suitable for those with wheelchairs or physical difficulties.

Where should I park?

There is parking on the street around the church and we try to reserve a couple of spaces in the church parking lot for visitors. Our church is in a residential neighborhood, so you may have to park up to a block away.

The Church Building

Is there an elevator to the upper level?

No. Unfortunately our church is old and we are unable to provide an elevator at this time. If you need to access the upper level, please ask a host or usher to assist you.

Where does the Sunday School meet?

Sunday school meets from 10:45 am - 11:45 am. Our Bible-based curriculum is designed to nurture the youth in their faith journey.

Where are the rest rooms?

On the first floor across from the church office.

Children's Participation and Activities

May my children stay in the sanctuary during the service?

Yes - children are most definitely welcome! All children are encouraged to attend the beginning portions of the worship service with their families. They are then invited (but not required) to come to the front of the sanctuary and sit on the steps for the Children's Message. Children 5 years and older are encouraged to remain with their families for the entire worship service. For these children, coloring activity bags are available at the main entrance to the sanctuary, or you can ask one of the hosts or ushers to provide you with one.

We also encourage older children to help in worship services by reading the opening prayer, acting as Acolytes, and by reading scriptures (bible passages).

What if my child is restless?

An usher can provide you with a coloring activity bag that may interest your child. Otherwise you may ask the usher to direct you to the nursery where child care is provided for children ages 5 and under.

What if my child is too young to sit through the service?

Please feel free to leave your child in the Nursery in the education building. Our nursery is tended by dedicated and caring individuals. Please ask someone to show you where it is.

Making Contact

How do I get in touch with the Ministers?

There are several ways:

• Sign the red registration book during the worship service. If you give your email/mailing address and phone number, one of our ministers will get in touch with you, and we will add you to our mailing list.
• Introduce your self to one of our Ministers after the service and come to the Fellowship Room to meet some of the members.
• You can leave a message at the church office by calling (707) 253-1411
• You can e-mail us at secretary@napaumc.org

How do I find out about special events or on-going projects?

We have several ways to find out what is happening.

• The calendar on our website is updated regularly with the latest schedule of events.
• If you give us your mailing and/or e-mail address you will receive our newsletter, The Grapevine, which will tell about what is happening in the next month or so.
• The Sunday Order of Worship contains information about upcoming events, and one of the Lay Leaders makes news announcements at the beginning of the service.

Getting Involved

How can I be of service on Sunday mornings?

We are delighted to have people take an active role on Sunday mornings. If you want to know more about how to do that, contact the Church office at (707) 253-1411.

Some of the opportunities to serve include:

• Host (Greeter)
• Usher
• Participate in music programs
• Help with food and drinks during the Fellowship Hour
• Help teach Sunday School
• Help with children in the Nursery

Are there ways to be of service through the church?

Yes, there are many ways you can help. Volunteer activities in the church include:

• Helping in the office
• Serving on a church committee
• Participate in one of our music programs

Please contact the Church office to find a opportunity that meets your interests and skills.

Membership

How do I become a member?

We welcome interest in membership. Discovery Classes are held several times throughout the year. In these classes we discuss together faith questions of the participants, and you will have an opportunity to learn more about the United Methodist beliefs and our local church history.

Members are received in three ways:

• By profession of faith and baptism
• By letter of transfer from another United Methodist Church
• By letter of transfer from another Christian Church OR by reaffirmation of faith when a letter of transfer is not appropriate/possible.

To learn more about membership please contact the church office (707) 253-1411

What if I'm not a Methodist?

We welcome everyone. Non-members are welcome to participate on committees and in any other activities.

Do I have to give a certain amount of money to the church?

You are always welcome to worship with us and participate regardless of whether you contribute money. However, we would like everyone who considers FUMC Napa their church (whether as a formal member or not) to make a commitment (a "pledge") to contribute some amount, either weekly or monthly.

It is entirely up to you to decide how much you can afford to give and how important the church is to you. The pledge isn't binding and we know everyone's circumstances differ and can change at any time. What you give is kept confidential by the financial secretary and the treasurer.

If you would like help in deciding how much to give, we have some guidelines and facts about our financial needs. We like to think about giving in terms of a percentage of one's income. Tithing is the ultimate goal (10%), but the important thing is to do whatever you can.

Weddings and Events

How do I get married at Napa First United Methodist?

Contact our wedding director, Joellen Pope, for details about getting married. You can reach her by leaving a message with the church office (707) 253-1411. Click here to view the Wedding Section of our website.

Can I have a funeral, memorial service, reception or social gathering at Napa First United Methodist?

Non-members are invited to have their events here under the guidance of our ministers and the events coordinator. Please contact the church office for specific details (707) 253-1411.

Can my organization hold our meetings at Napa First United Methodist?

Our meeting rooms are very much in demand by our own groups and committees, as well by local community organizations. Please contact the church office for current availability. (707) 253-1411

Can my group hold a concert at Napa First United Methodist?

Several groups have made us their concert home. Please contact the church office to discuss your needs.(707) 253-1411

What Other Things Might Be Helpful to Know?

• The Communion is non-alcoholic.
• We offer both regular and decaf coffee during refreshments. There is also lemonade and cookies or other snacks.
• Smoking is not permitted in any of the church buildings. Please step outside if you want to smoke.
• Wear whatever makes you most comfortable. Some people like to dress up; others don't. We welcome everyone.

We invite you and your family to worship with us any Sunday morning.

Check out our Visitor Information section for more information about the First United Methodist Church of Napa.