First United Methodist Church of Sarasota
Make Friends.
Find Purpose.
Whether you’re new to church, returning after some time away, or looking for a place to belong, you are welcome at First UMC.
Sunday Worship
Choose your service
We offer two traditional services every Sunday, each with its own character. Both share the same scripture and message — it’s really just a matter of setting and style.
An intimate, unhurried service in our smaller chapel — warm Sunday morning energy with a friendly, small-town church feel. The congregation opens with a hymn sing accompanied by piano, followed by special music, scripture, and the message.
Service length is approximately 45 minutes.
A grander worship experience in our beautiful sanctuary and features organ, piano, and choir. Kids start in worship before heading for Sunday School.
Service length is approximately 60 minutes.
Both services follow the same scripture and message. Dress as you wish — comfort is the only expectation.
Location & Parking
Getting here
We’re in the heart of downtown Sarasota, with more free parking options than you might expect.
Sarasota, FL 34236
Two entrances to choose from:
- South Pineapple Ave. — Main entrance. Chapel is immediately on your right as you enter the Narthex; Sanctuary a few steps on your left.
- Mira Mar Court — Through the office lobby and into the Narthex. Valet service available here on Sundays.
- The Mark Garage — 40 reserved spaces at 111 S. Pineapple Ave. (directly across from our front entrance). Look for the “Church Parking” sign. Free FUMC stickers available at the Welcome Desk on Sundays.
- Street parking on S. Pineapple Ave. and Mira Mar Court
- State Street and Palm Avenue city garages are also nearby
Complimentary Valet at the Mira Mar Court entrance every Sunday, 10:00am – 12:30pm. Please reclaim your vehicle by 12:30pm.
Monday – Thursday
9:00am – 4:00pmClosed Friday & Saturday and on major holidays.
Phone: (941) 955-0935
Stop by or call any time during office hours — we’re happy to answer questions before your visit.
Common Questions
What to expect
Everything you might wonder before your first visit, answered honestly.
What should I wear?
The dress style varies matching the Florida vibe and the season of the year- some come in nice casual and others dress a little more formally. Everyone is welcome. God cares more about your heart than your clothes.
What about my kids?
We love kids in worship. As the saying goes, if you don’t hear crying, the church is dying!
For nursery and kids Sunday School during the 11:00am service, please sign in before the service in the Lobby. The kids will be a part of the worship service in the Sanctuary for the first 15 minutes or so and then depart for nursery/Sunday School.
Parents should pick up their kids upstairs in Youth Hall following the service. On Communion Sundays (usually first Sunday of the month), the kids return to the Sanctuary near the end of the service to receive Holy Communion.
Can I initially worship anonymously?
We understand that some guests like to remain anonymous as they sample the worship experiences here at First UMC. We respect that and want you to be able to do so. Know that we are here for you and would love to meet you and get you connected. The bulletin contains a QR code and the back of the pew has a Guest Connection Card should you choose to share your information with us. We promise not to bother you too much and best of all we will make a $25 donation in your name to All Faiths Food Bank so you can immediately be a part of our mission to BLESS SARASOTA.
CanI preview a service before visiting in person?
Absolutely. You can watch full past services or browse individual sermons anytime. It's a great way to get a feel for things before you come in person.
Am I expected to give financially?
The church operates by the faithful and generous financial contributions of its members. If God leads you to support the mission and ministries of this church, you may place any contributions in the baskets or wooden boxes at the exits of the worship spaces or give online at www.SRQgives.com.
Watch before you visit
Get a feel for things from home first.
Not quite ready to walk through the door? That’s completely okay. You can watch full past services or browse individual sermons any time — no account, no signup required. It’s a great way to get a sense of who we are before you visit.
Come for a service. Stay for the community.
Sunday worship is a great starting point, but there’s always something going on. Any of these are a low-key way to get a feel for who we are.
From our community
Don't take our word
for it
Here’s what people who were once sitting exactly where you are now have to say.
Still have questions?
Pastor Brett and our team are here.
No pressure, no agenda. Whether you’re ready to visit or just want to know more, reach out and a real person will get back to you.
Or email us directly at [email protected]