First United Methodist Church

About this church

First United Methodist Church in downtown Gastonia offers three distinct Sunday worship settings. The 8:45 a.m. gathering, called 162 East, meets in the Theatre with modern music and a casual but liturgical approach. A relaxed traditional service begins at 9 a.m. in the Sanctuary; it uses individual or small-group musicians and lasts about 45 minutes so participants can reach Sunday school. The 11 a.m. Sanctuary service is the largest and most formal, with liturgy and a full choir, and it is livestreamed. All three services share the week's sermon, worship music, a children's moment, and an offering, allowing visitors to choose by time and style rather than message.

Music ministry provides choirs and handbell ensembles for children, youth, and adults, along with concerts and appearances in healthcare facilities, correctional settings, festivals, and other community venues. The church describes its broader life through worship, spiritual growth, fellowship, and hands-on service; current volunteer opportunities appear in each Sunday's bulletin. Its mission work has included local and travel-based service teams, while membership information introduces United Methodist vows and ways to connect. The site does not break down Sunday school by age or answer several first-visit questions, including nursery availability, where to park, step-free building access, who may receive Communion and how often, hearing assistance, and customary dress. Guests who need any of this missing information can ask the church office before planning their visit.

Researched from the church’s official website and reviewed August 26, 2026. Sources: Official worship page, three service styles and settings, duration, shared eleme · Official homepage, current Sunday times and modern, relaxed, and traditional lab · Official music page, choirs, handbells, age groups, concerts, outreach settings, · Official about page, church history, worship, spiritual growth, fellowship, outr

Service times

Confirm current times directly with the church before visiting.

Location