Welcome To First Church: A Community Of Faith And Service
Are you getting ready to visit First Church? Whether you're a long-time resident of Johnson City or just passing through, we warmly invite you to experience our vibrant community of faith. In addition to coming in person, you are invited to a virtual visit either by exploring our website, our Facebook page, or our YouTube channel. We understand that visiting a new church can feel intimidating, so we've created multiple ways for you to connect with us and learn about our ministry before stepping through our doors.
Our History and Mission
We are a local congregation of the United Methodist Church, rooted in a rich tradition of faith and service. This church has a long history of an active, Christian presence in Johnson City which has been and continues to be involved in our community. Since our founding, we've been committed to making a positive impact in the lives of those around us, both spiritually and practically. Our mission is to create a welcoming environment where people can grow in their faith, build meaningful relationships, and serve others with love and compassion.
Exploring Membership and Faith
If you have an interest in learning more about 1stChurch membership, or the United Methodist Church in general, please consider attending our Explore 1stChurchJC classes. These sessions are designed to help you understand our beliefs, values, and the unique aspects of our congregation. Whether you're new to Christianity or looking to deepen your existing faith, these classes provide a welcoming space to ask questions and connect with others on a similar journey. Our pastors and lay leaders are passionate about sharing their experiences and helping you find your place in our church family.
Community Outreach and Service
One of the most significant ways we serve our community is through our food pantry ministry. We estimate an average of 90 families per month visit the church food pantry, seeking assistance during challenging times. By partnering with Second Harvest, we can assist more families and keep our shelves stocked with nutritious food options. This partnership allows us to maximize our resources and reach even more people in need. Our volunteers work tirelessly to ensure that every family who comes to us leaves with dignity and hope, along with the food they need to nourish their bodies.
Spaces for Prayer and Reflection
The Carter Prayer Chapel is available just off the narthex which is the large open area in back of the sanctuary. There is a set of rooms that provide a quiet sanctuary for personal reflection and prayer. In addition to the restrooms, there is a quiet place with kneeling benches where you can spend time in private devotion. This sacred space is open to everyone, regardless of whether you're a member of our congregation or not. We believe that everyone deserves a place to connect with God, and the Carter Prayer Chapel offers a peaceful environment for that connection.
Our Pastoral Leadership
Jodie Ihfe serves as our senior pastor and can be reached at [email protected] for any pastoral needs or questions about our ministry. Gary Ihfe, our associate pastor and director of youth ministries, can be contacted at [email protected] for information about our youth programs and family ministries. Both pastors bring unique gifts and perspectives to our leadership team, working together to guide our congregation in spiritual growth and community service. They are passionate about building relationships and helping people discover the transformative power of faith in their lives.
Early Learning Center
The Early Learning Center of First United Methodist Church provides high-quality, affordable childcare with preschool and education in a safe, loving environment that provides stimulating learning experiences. Our center is licensed and accredited, ensuring that your children receive the best possible care and education. We believe that early childhood education is crucial for development, and our experienced staff creates engaging activities that promote cognitive, social, and emotional growth. Parents can have peace of mind knowing their children are in a nurturing environment that supports their overall development.
Worship Services
First United Methodist Church worship with us at 10:30 a.m. every Sunday morning. Our services blend traditional and contemporary elements, creating a worship experience that appeals to all generations. We sing hymns accompanied by our beautiful pipe organ as well as contemporary praise songs led by our worship team. Our sermons are biblically-based and relevant to everyday life, helping you apply God's word to your personal circumstances. Children's church is available during the service, and we provide a nursery for infants and toddlers so parents can fully participate in worship.
Our Commitment to Safety and Quality
The Early Learning Center of First United Methodist Church provides high-quality, affordable childcare with preschool and education in a safe, loving environment that provides stimulating learning. Our facility meets all state licensing requirements and undergoes regular inspections to ensure the highest standards of safety and care. All staff members undergo thorough background checks and receive ongoing training in child development and safety protocols. We maintain low teacher-to-student ratios to ensure that each child receives individual attention and care. Our curriculum is designed to prepare children for kindergarten while fostering a love of learning that will last a lifetime.
Getting Involved
There are many ways to get involved at First Church, whether through serving in our ministries, joining a small group, or participating in mission projects. We believe that faith grows best in community, and we encourage everyone to find their place of service and connection. From our music ministry to our outreach programs, there's something for everyone to contribute their unique gifts and talents. Our volunteer coordinators are always available to help you find the right opportunity that matches your interests and schedule.
Conclusion
First Church is more than just a building; it's a community of people committed to following Jesus Christ and making a difference in Johnson City. Whether you're looking for a place to worship, serve, learn, or simply belong, we invite you to join us on this journey of faith. Our doors are open, our hearts are welcoming, and our community is waiting to embrace you. Come as you are, and discover the love, hope, and purpose that can be found in a relationship with God and connection with His people. We look forward to meeting you and walking alongside you in your spiritual journey.
