Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to common questions about our worship services to help you prepare.

What time is worship and how long is the service?

Sunday morning worship begins at 10am CST and is one hour long. Embrace Church, our unplugged, sensory service begins at 4pm the second Sunday of every month and is usually less than an hour.

What kind of child care do you have on Sundays?

Nursery services are available for infants and children up to 3 years old for all of our Sunday morning fellowship, study and worship opportunities.

What type of Sunday morning children and youth opportunities do you have?

We offer group study and participation for preschoolers through high school in age appropriate groups. Parents will pick up their children who are 4 years and older to join them in worship. Contact us for more information.

 What is Kids Korner?

This takes place during our worship service where kids ages (4 - 7) are invited after their lesson to play games and spend time together supervised during our 10am service. Parents will pick up their children following the service at 11am.

Can I participate in communion?

Absolutely, come as you are! Everyone is welcome at the Lord's Table, including children.

If you have mobility issues or are gluten-intolerant, we can accommodate your needs.

Where should I park?  

There is parking available in front of the church, and the Education Building, and along the streets of Downtown Gulfport. Parking is free of charge.

What should I wear?

Come as you are! We are a casual community, and embrace everyone for their individuality. You will find some people wearing jeans, shorts, and others wearing suits and dresses.

Where are you located?  

We are located in the heart of downtown Gulfport, Mississippi, near the Mississippi Aquarium and across from Gulfport City Hall. See the map below.

“FUMC is a welcoming, caring church that uplifts through worship and empowers us to make a difference in the community.”

Jeanette Smith

“This faith community welcomes everyone and reflects God’s love through preaching, programs, and outreach.”

George Lammons

“FUMC provides a welcoming spiritual home with inspiring worship, fellowship, and community service.”

Jess Waltman

“Led by Claire and Jill, this church offers a welcoming home and a heart for service.”

Bob Reeves

“FUMC is a welcoming, judgment-free church where you can truly come as you are.”

Nathan Powell

“FUMC is a welcoming church where God’s love abounds and everyone is valued from the moment they arrive.”

Brandi Mire
FUMC is a church where everyone is welcomed. It is a caring church with many service opportunities to reach out and make a difference in our community. Worship services are uplifting, and there are numerous small group experiences available.
Jeanette Smith
This is a faith community that works every day to love God and to love others. It is inviting and open to everyone regardless of who you are, where you are from or where you have been. Those qualities are reflected in the preaching, the programs and the outreach.
George Lammons
First United Methodist Church was my spiritual home when I lived on the Mississippi Gulf Coast, and Pastor Claire Dobbs and the team made everyone feel welcome. The team went above and beyond to provide a engaging worship, fellowship, and discipleship experiences, and their service to the community is a model that we all should strive to follow.
Jess Waltman
Wonderful church that is active in service to our community. My family and I are so thankful that we decided to try this church out 11 years ago. Claire and Jill do a great job leading us and the people are welcoming and willing to serve!
Bob Reeves
I love being a member of FUMC. Everyone is so welcoming and it’s easy to plug in. People don’t judge when you walk in the door. Our church really has a “come as you are” attitude, and I think that’s my favorite part. I love our pastors and music team as well!
Nathan Powell
I came to FUMC about 12 years ago thanks to a friend, and I am so thankful I did. The two pastors, Claire and Jill, are absolutely amazing! They make you feel welcomed, valued, and engaged from the moment you arrive. If you’re looking for a church home where you are truly loved for who you are, this is your place. God’s love abounds here!
Brandi Mire