Welcome

To First Church

Service Times: 8:30, 9:45, and 11:00 a.m. Online, and 8:30 and 11:00 a.m. In Person

Love God. Love People. Make Disciples of Jesus Christ.

Join us for worship!

Contemporary Service
9:45 AM

Online only—Join in worship as our top-notch Praise Band glorifies our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. This is a more informal service that usually lasts about 45 minutes.

Traditional Bulletin Download here

Traditional Service
8:30 and 11:00 AM

Online and in-person on Sundays at 8:30 and 11 am. Traditional services feature superb music with piano and/or organ and gifted vocalists who enhance the experience of worship. It typically lasts about 45 minutes.

Watch NOW Click to watch Sunday service

Watch a Service Click to watch past services

Watch a Sermon Click to watch past sermons

The Pastor’s Welcome

Welcome to First Church! Thank you for visiting our website. I am aware that finding your church home can be exhausting, especially during these strange times. You may have questions about First Church. I would be happy to address any questions you may have. Feel free to contact me by phone 941-900-8231(cell) or by email (swright@firstsrq.com). Our traditional worship services are online and in person. Our contemporary worship is online only. People who had plans to shop around for a church have told me that they felt so warmly welcomed and at home at First Church that there was no need to continue church shopping. We hope that will be your experience whether you join us for online worship and/or for in-person worship. We are a warm and caring congregation, making a difference in our community and beyond. May God keep you safe and healthy!
Blessings!
Dr. Sam

My wife, Janet, and I were attracted to First Church for its outstanding church music program. We attended Christmas services and knew immediately we had found a home church. We love worship, volunteering, and our mission outreach. Janet enjoys the choir and being able to play the organ when needed and I chair the Perpetual Endowment Fund Trustee Group. It’s a great fit!

I come to FUMC because this is the first church I’ve been to where I feel at home. As soon as you walk through the doors, you are showered with love. I also love how everyone treats each other like a massive family.

When my wife and I arrived in the area and began our search for a new church home, we tried 4 others before FUMC. The downtown location made us hesitate but there's plenty of parking. We've never left! The majesty of the music and the building, coupled with truly warm, open people embraced us. Best music in the city! And downtown is a great place to meander after the service!

Pastor's Blog

Is the United Methodist Church Going to Split?

Pastors Blog

July 15, 2021

Last month Bishop Carter said, “The United Methodist Church (UMC) is not splitting. There are no plans for it to...

Navigating the River