Worship
Worship is central to who we are and what we are about.
Each worship experience includes time of reflection and prayer, time with the scriptures, a powerful message, and singing. We praise God and spend time in awe. We are challenged and renewed.
EARLY MORNING WORSHIP: 8:00 AM
Our early service has a distinctly traditional feel as we gather on the second floor in the Bobbie Fox Chapel for this intimate service. We join in the sacrament of communion regularly, sing traditional hymns, and experience the full sermon in this 45 minute service.
ALL NEW WORSHIP: 9:30 AM
Our later service at 9:30am in the main sanctuary has a variety of elements to engage the congregation. The organ, as well as a band, accompanies this service, which is led by a group of fabulous singers. Contemporary Christian songs, traditional hymns, and special music accent the worship. Our children are present and occasionally perform songs and dramas. This service incorporates full media, utilizing videos and two screens.
HOSPITALITY TIME: 10:30 – 11:00 AM
Spend time with members of the congregation and guests in the Parlor as you enjoy coffee, tea or lemonade and a selection of tasty baked goods.
SUNDAY SCHOOL
Children 3 years of age through fifth grade: Held following the “Time for Young Christians” at the 9:30 AM worship. Sunday School for this age group is not held the first Sunday of each month as we host a Family Worship, where children remain in the Sanctuary for the entire service.
Middle School (grades 6-8) and High School (grades 9-12): Older youth meet for interactive Sunday School lessons and conversation every Sunday from 10:30 to 11:30 AM.
CHILD CARE
Childcare is available for infants and toddlers up to 3 years of age from 8:15 – 11:30 AM.
HOLY COMMUNION
In the United Methodist Church, we celebrate communion with an open table, to which all God’s children are invited! Gluten-free wafers and non-alcoholic fruit of the vine are used in order that all persons may participate.
At First UMC Park Ridge, “welcoming all” means that we see all persons as created in the image of God and bearing sacred worth and dignity. We invite all persons to participate fully in the life of our church regardless of age, race, ethnic background, sexual orientation, gender identity, physical or mental condition, marital status, family situation, or economic standing. 
