Your first visit to FUMC

First Things First
​​Whoever you are, whatever your story, in this church, you are family. 
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Connecting with a new community can be scary. It's a little less that way when you think of us as believers and seekers from all walks of life.  No one will question your beliefs, or, to be honest, your un-beliefs.  Just come on in and give us a test drive.

​We're easy to find.

The church is on the northwest corner of Prairie and Graceland Avenues in Des Plaines. 

What's a 'FUMC'?
​​Its an acronym for our longgggggggggg full name: First United Methodist Church. Actually, it's even longer (FUMCDP), but we'll spare you that, for now. Come say hello, and don't worry about our name.

Where Do I Park?
We've got lots and lots of parking. The best place is at the rear of our building. Just enter from the driveway on Graceland Avenue, or you can slip in from Webford Avenue, just north of our building.  There's a big back door that's always open on Sundays. This is the entrance for anyone who needs assistance. Our elevator is located just steps from the rear door entrance.

You can also use on-street parking on Graceland. It usually has many open spots on Sunday mornings. There's also a very large municipal parking lot that you reach from Graceland Avenue.
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If you park on Graceland, or in the muni lot,  your best bet into the church is through our "famous red doors". Don't worry about directions; you can't miss them.​

Rear entrance and parking area.

Come Up The Stairs, and Enter The Narthex. 
That person with the big smile and a friendly "hello" is our Sunday greeter. Feel free to ask questions. There's a visitor information desk with goody bags for you right next to the greeter.
The sanctuary is right off the narthex. Be sure to get a bulletin from the usher who is standing right on the side of the sanctuary entrance. Sit anywhere you'd like, get comfortable, and enjoy the pre-service music.

​If you seek a more quiet experience, that's fine. 
We respect those who prefer to worship as a deeply personal time, without all the social 'busyness'.  It’s your call. But, we are still glad to make new friends.

​Yes, We Do Practice Something Called "Passing The Peace"
Just a few minutes into the service, after the first hymn, everyone takes a moment to shake hands and say hello to the people sitting near them. It's not scary; in fact it's kind of nice since it gets everyone smiling. As a visitor, you can jump right in, or not. It's entirely up to you.

No, We Never Ask Visitors To Stand-Up And Introduce Themselves To The Whole Service.
We've heard this actually happens in some churches. Don't worry, you're on safe ground with us.   

Bring The Kids!
Children are always welcome. They might enjoy the wonderful grandmas and grandpas scattered through-out our members.