Frequently Asked Questions

more infomation about Grace

What time are worship services?

Our regular worship services is Sunday morning services at  10:15 AM. Everyone is always welcome.  Currently we are not meeting in person but our online service can be seen at 10:15 each Sunday on Facebook, YouTube and this web site.

Are children welcomed in worship?

Children are encouraged to stay in worship and fully participate in the service. Most services feature a Children’s Message, which gives the children an opportunity to hear an age appropriate message and be an active participant.

Activity Bags are available in the narthex to help children become accustomed to being in worship.  Each bag includes several quiet activities.

We encourage and welcome children to stay and participate in worship. Our nursery does provide childcare for children (0-3 years of age) on Sunday morning from 7:45 to 11:30 a.m. It also has a quiet place to rock or feed a baby, along with a diaper changing table with extra diapers available. Our nursery is on the 2nd floor near the church library.

 

What time is Sunday School?
We have Sunday School classes for adults and children of all ages at 9:00 AM on Sundays during the school year.
When do you celebrate communion?

We celebrate communion the first Sunday of every month.

Do I need to be a confirmed member of the United Methodist church to take communion?
The table of Holy Communion is Christ’s table, not the table of The United Methodist Church or of our congregation. The table is open to anyone who seeks to respond to Christ’s love and to lead a new life of peace and love.
What should I wear to worship services?
You will find all styles of dress at our services. From those who enjoy putting on their “Sunday best,” to those who feel more comfortable in t-shirts, flip-flops, and jeans—all are welcome, always. Please be comfortable. We do have air conditioning in hot weather.
Where are you located?
We are located at 3700 Cottage Grove at the corner of 37th Street in Des Moines.

We have two parking lots, one just east of the church on 37th Street, and one behind the church to the south, with entrances from both 37th and 38th streets. You may enter the church through doors on every side of the church.

 

Can I ride the bus to Grace?
You can now take the bus to Grace on Sunday. Route 3, University and Route 60, University/Ingersoll stop just one block from us at 37th and University.

We also have a wheelchair accessible bus that will pick you up for the 10:15 service on Sunday.  Call our office to arrange a ride.  515-255-2131.

Who are the United Methodists?

This brief overview of the United Methodist Church might help answer this question.

Who should I contact about getting married at your church?
For information on getting married at Grace, please contact Office Manager Charlene Hjort at 515-255-2131.

Grace Abbreviations

Sometimes we use abbreviations as part of the life of Grace.  These short cuts while familiar to some are confusing to others especially  newcomers.  This is a list of abbreviations that we use around Grace with a definition and a link to more information.  If you see or hear an abbreviation around Grace send it to Words to be added to the list.

  • AA – Alcoholics Anonymous.   
  • AMOS – A Mid-Iowa Organizing Strategy.
  • CFUM – Children and Family Urban Movement
  • CISS – Central Iowa Shelter & Services.  On the first of every month Grace serves the evening meal at CISS.
  • DMARC – Des Moines Area Religious Council.  The food pantry network and more.
  • IPL Iowa Interfaith Power and Light
  • JFON  – Justice for Our Neighbors.
  • LADOS – Life After Death of Spouse.  LADOS meets the second Sunday of every month.
  • NA – Narcotics Anonymous.  New Beginnings NA group meets at Grace on Friday evenings.
  • OA – Overeaters Anonymous.  
  • SPRC – Staff Parish Relations Committee
  • UMC – United Methodist Church.
  • UMCOR – United Methodist Committee on Relief
  • UMW – United Methodist Women
  • UMYF – United Methodist Youth Fellowship.  Sunday night middle and senior high school youth program.
  • VBS – Vacation Bible School.