Welcome!

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What should I expect when I visit?

You can expect a warm welcome, meaningful worship, practical biblical teaching, and people who are genuinely glad you're here. Whether you've attended church your whole life or are visiting for the first time, we want you to feel comfortable and at home.

What should I wear?

Whatever makes you comfortable. On any given Sunday you'll see everything from jeans and casual clothes to business attire. Come as you are.

What are your worship services like?

At First United Methodist Church of Gonzales, we offer a blended worship experience that brings together the richness of traditional worship and the energy of contemporary praise. You can expect a mix of hymns and modern worship songs, prayer, Scripture, and a practical, Christ-centered message designed to help people grow in their faith and apply God's truth to everyday life.

Our goal is not to focus on a particular style of worship, but to create an environment where people of all ages and backgrounds can encounter God, grow closer to Jesus, and worship together as one church family.

Do I have to be a United Methodist to attend?

Not at all. People from many different church backgrounds worship with us, and some have never attended church before. You are welcome to participate at your own pace as you explore faith and learn more about Jesus Christ.

What do United Methodists believe?

United Methodists believe in the God revealed through Jesus Christ and in God's grace for all people. We believe faith is more than something we believe—it is something we live. We seek to love God, love our neighbors, and serve the world in Christ's name.

Is there something for my children?

Yes. We love children and families. We offer opportunities for children and youth to learn about God, build friendships, and grow in faith in safe and caring environments.

What happens when I visit for the first time?

You'll be greeted, helped if you have questions, and invited to worship with us. We won't single you out or put you on the spot. We simply want you to feel welcomed and have the opportunity to experience our church family.

Do I need to bring anything?

Just bring yourself. If you have a Bible, feel free to bring it, but it isn't necessary. Most scripture readings are displayed on screens or printed in worship materials.

How can I get connected?

One of the best ways is to attend worship regularly and introduce yourself to Pastor John or one of our ministry leaders. We also offer opportunities for Bible study, service, fellowship, and small groups where relationships can grow.

How do I become a member?

Membership is a way to publicly commit to following Christ alongside this church family. If you are interested in membership, Pastor John would be happy to meet with you, answer your questions, and explain the process. 

What is your mission?

Our mission is simple: Transforming Lives to Love Like Jesus.

We seek to be a place where people are:

Invited to know Jesus Christ,

Inspired to grow in faith, and

Encouraged to serve others and live out their God-given purpose.

How can I contact the church?

We would love to hear from you. Visit our Contact Us page, call the church office, or stop by during office hours. Whether you have questions about faith, worship, children, youth, or simply want to learn more about our church family, we're here to help.

At First United Methodist Church of Gonzales, we believe that God is at work transforming lives through the love and grace revealed in Jesus Christ. We believe every person is created with dignity, purpose, and the capacity to grow in a relationship with God. While life often leaves us broken, discouraged, or searching for meaning, we trust that God's grace meets us where we are and continually calls us toward hope, healing, and a deeper life of faith.

Our mission is simple: Transforming Lives to Love Like Jesus. We seek to be a place where people are Invited to know Christ, Inspired to grow in faith, and Encouraged to discover their purpose by serving others. We believe faith is more than something we believe; it is something we live. As we experience God's grace, we grow in love for God, compassion for our neighbors, and a desire to make a positive difference in the world.

As part of the United Methodist tradition, we emphasize God's grace, practical faith, and serving others. We believe that no one is beyond God's love and that spiritual growth happens best in community through worship, learning, friendship, prayer, and acts of service. Together, we are learning what it means to follow Jesus and helping one another become the people God created us to be.

For additional information about what United Methodist’s Believe, go to www.la-umc/whoweare.

Pastor John Gilmore has spent more than three decades serving churches and helping people grow in their relationship with Jesus Christ. His ministry has taken him from small rural congregations in Ohio to churches in the United Kingdom and throughout Louisiana, always with a passion for building strong communities of faith and helping churches connect with their neighbors.

John believes that the church is at its best when it welcomes people where they are, helps them discover God's grace, and equips them to make a difference in the world. Throughout his ministry, he has worked to build partnerships between churches, support youth and college ministries, and create opportunities for people to grow in faith through worship, learning, fellowship, and service.

Pastor John and his wife, Judy, have called Louisiana home since 2016. He is excited to serve First United Methodist Church of Gonzales and to join with the congregation in its mission of Transforming Lives to Love Like Jesus.