Bellaire United Methodist Church -- Connecting People to God.

First Visit

We are delighted that you are interested in our church. It is our hope that you have worshiped with us already, but in case you have not, please visit Bellaire UMC soon so you may find faith, fellowship and friendship.

Stop by the Connection Center, our information desk, if you would like to know more about our church and its ministries. You may also visit the Guest Center in the sanctuary narthex (Matins or Traditional service) or inside the Family Life Center's main entrance (Contemporary service) before or after a worship service for a gift. A friendly church member will provide you with church literature and help answer any questions you may have. Please let us help you find your place within this wonderful congregation.

Below are frequently asked questions by many first-time guests:

What time are the Sunday worship services, and where do they take place?
8:15 AM: Contemporary Worship - Family Life Center

10:55 AM: Tradtitional Worship - Sanctuary
11:00 AM: Asian-American Worship - Chapel

If there is a fifth Sunday in the month, we call it Unity Sunday. One combined worship service is held at 10:55 AM in the Sanctuary, with a potluck lunch held immediately following in the Family Life Center.

What should I wear?
We leave that up to you. There is no dress code, and you will see people attending our services in various forms of attire, from casual to dressy. The importance is not on what you wear, but that you are here to worship.

Where is the main entrance to the church sanctuary?
The main entrance to the sanctuary is on Bellaire Blvd. There are three other access doors, two on the west side of the building and one on the east side of the sanctuary.

What about bringing children to the worship service?
Children are always welcome in worship. Your child may enjoy a busy bag, which can be found near the front doors of each service. They may participate in our children’s moment during the Contemporary or Traditional worship services, which involves coming to the front and hearing a story prepraed just for them. Also, the nursery is available for younger children, and you can be assured they will be loved and cared for while you worship.

Where is the nursery?
Our nursery is located in the hallway between the Fellowship Hall and the Family Life Center. Our nursery staff cares for infants aged six weeks through preschool. Our nursery facilities are available during each service and during Sunday school.

Who works in the nursery?
Our caring nursery staff is employed by our church. They all have been interviewed, cleared background checks and been hired because they enjoy working with our children! These staff members are also current with infant and child CPR training.

What is available for kids?

We have numerous programs for our children and youth, including confirmation, summer camps, musical opportunities, UMY, mission trips and much, much more. Our Sunday school page has more detailed information about our children and youth programs.

I am not a United Methodist. What are the Christian beliefs of your church?
For a look at what we believe in, visit our Beliefs page. You may also visit our Church Links page for several Web sites that offer additional information.

Since I am not a United Methodist, will I be able to participate in the Sacrament of Holy Communion?
We have what is called an "open table" approach to Holy Communion. A person does not have to be a United Methodist or a member of this particular church. We invite all who honestly are seeking the presence of Christ in their lives and desire to receive God's grace with an intention to lead a transformed life in God's world.

I am a Catholic. Can I participate in the worship of your church?
Absolutely! We welcome all persons to worship, participate in the sacraments and in all activities of the church, regardless of religious affiliation, race, color or nationality. The United Methodist Church tagline is "Open hearts. Open minds. Open doors."

I am not a Christian. Can I still attend worship at your church?
Certainly. We know that the age we live in can be troublesome, confusing and heartbreaking. In times such as these, it isn't unusual for persons to seek something deeper in life; something that offers hope — a sense of purpose and family. We worship an inviting God ready to heal the heart and transform life itself. We always stand ready to be part of God's work in peoples' lives, and being in worship is a wonderful place to begin.

Does your church have typical Sunday school classes?
There are classes for all ages with many choices for children, youth and adults — from young adults to seniors. Visit our Sunday school page for brief descriptions and meeting places for these classes.

How would I find information about becoming a member of Bellaire UMC?
About once a month we have a New Member Orientation class that gives information about our church, the meaning of church membership, the United Methodist Church, our church's mission and the various activities and classes we offer here. You are welcome to attend a class just to learn more about us or to join our church. You can contact the church office for information on upcoming classes.

What kind of ministries does your church offer?
You’ll find music, art, prayer, book club, community service and social issues to name a few. We not only offer ministries, but we encourage members and non-members alike to take part in them. There is always room for a person to share their spiritual gifts in the church and the community. In fact, we are convinced that being in ministry is a vital part of being a faithful Christian disciple.

You mentioned sharing my spiritual gifts. What does that mean?
We believe God has given every human being certain spiritual gifts to be used within the Christian community and in society. We also believe a person's gift (or gifts) has been given by God to be used, not to remain idle. Sometimes we don't think we actually have a spiritual gift, or we don't know how to discover what it may be. The church periodically offers a class which will help you discover your gift. Once you do, you will understand the difference between being the casual volunteer and the committed Disciple of Christ.

What opportunities are available in the church's music ministries?
Choirs for all ages, praise bands for adults and youth, hand bells and a summer musical are just a few. If you visit the Music page, you will get a good idea of just how diverse the Music offerings of Bellaire UMC are. If you want to know more or would like to participate in this ministry, contact David Lee, director of music ministries, at 713-666-2167, ext. 137.

Where would I find more information on the offerings for children and youth?
Both of these core ministries have their own dedicated Web pages. These sites will give you up-to-date information on all activities and class schedules.

Is your church involved in mission work?
Yes, we are very involved in missions such as the impoverished community of Malis, Philippines and local hurricane-hit areas. The mission work always includes both elements of sharing Christ and providing assistance with the physical needs of the people, including building, repair work and other projects.

I am a senior citizen. Is there anything besides a Sunday school class for me?
Absolutely! Our senior adults are always on the go! Day trips are open to anyone who wishes to participate. United Methodist Women (UMW) and Ring of Fire (Men's ministry) also offer plenty of opportunities for faith, fun and fellowship. Contact the church office at 713-666-2167 and let them know a rocking chair is not for you!

How do you fund all of the ministries and programs of your church?
Like most churches, we have a budget that contains everything the church does and how much we plan to spend to do our work and do it well. Budgets are supported through the pledges of church members as well as regular participants in the worship and other events of the church. In the fall, we hold a Stewardship Campaign inviting everyone to share in the work of God in this community and beyond. Our understanding of stewardship goes well beyond giving money. We understand that God calls every Christian to be a good steward of time, talents, as well as finances. This is why our members take a personal vow before God to support the church with their prayers, presence, gifts and service.

Who can I contact if I have other questions that are not on this page?
Call the church office at 713-666-2167 and ask to speak to someone who can answer your question or visit the Connection Center on Sunday mornings and speak with a volunteer.