I'm New
Thinking about coming to GUM Church for the first time? We realize trying something new can be a little scary. We want to do everything we can to put you at ease. Here’s a snapshot of what to expect on a typical Sunday morning...
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I wear?
Where can I park?
Where do I go once I'm inside?
What should I do with my children?
How do I find the right worship experience for me?
What will I be expected to do during a worship experience?
I want to explore more about GUM Church... what is the next step?
What should I wear?
Whatever you feel comfortable in. Even our most formal members wear "business casual" during the summer, and our least formal folks are known to wear shorts, jeans, flip flops, whatever. Right from the start we want you to know GUM is about who you are on the inside, not what you look like on the outside.
Where can I park?
Parking is available on both sides of the building, but even if the "good spots" all look taken, there is always room in the 28th Ave. lot. If you have special needs, we've blocked off quite a few handicapped spaces close to the entrances.
Where do I go once I'm inside?
Start by exploring the welcome center. This large open area is in the middle of our building. From here you can easily access our sanctuary, browse the childcare areas, grab a cup of coffee in the gym or if you're visiting Monday - Friday you can head to the main office on the southwest side of the building. During our weekly office hours and worship services volunteers and staff will be available to greet you and answer any questions you may have.
What should I do with my children?
GUM offers a full range of age-appropriate programs for children birth through fifth grade. In the middle of the welcome center is a desk. Volunteers there can direct you to the appropriate part of our children's area where our loving volunteers are ready to provide a fun, safe environment for your little one so you can concentrate on enjoying the worship experience. (Learn more about our focus on child security). Be sure to introduce yourself to your child's teacher or caregiver so that if for any reason your child needs you, a volunteer will seek you out immediately.
How do I find the right worship experience for me?
Traditional Worship
Do you enjoy the deep-rooted sense of doing things in time-honored ways? You may prefer our 9:15am Traditional Worship service. With traditional hymns, the resonant voices of the Georgetown Choir, powerful soloists and inspiring instrumental pieces Georgetown's traditional service has been a community staple for over 30 years.
Contemporary Worship
Do you prefer a diverse worship experience? At our 11am Contemporary Worship service you'll hear a varied selection of worship composed of modern, traditional and original music. On a given Sunday you might hear a rock infused modern chorus, a bluegrass rendition of "How Great Thou Art" or a stripped down set lead by a single voice and an acoustic guitar. No matter the style, worship at this service is passionate and easy to participate in. We welcome you to sing along, or just sit back and soak it up.
What will I be expected to do during a worship experience?
- There will be music, but you do not need to be musical. If one of our worship leaders says "Please rise and sing with us." Feel free to simply sit and listen. The service is for you to connect with God and refresh your spirit. We'll be singing songs to express our love for God, and the words will be on screens so you can sing along if you want to.
- You may also see Christian sacraments such as baptism or communion, and we'll be sure to explain what they mean so you won't feel out of the loop. If, for any reason, you don't understand something that happens, don't hesitate ask the pastor to explain more (yes, even in worship!), use the in-sanctuary WIFI to check it out, or ask someone after the gathering ends.
- Our pastor or a lay speaker will share a relevant message, often combined with thought-provoking drama or video clips, to enable you to discover new paths and ideas that help you see life from God's point of view. We encourage you to take notes on the commentary provided, and check what we are saying against the Bible for yourself. After the gathering is over, you can continue the conversation by visiting our facebook page and offering your thoughts and revelations along with discussing those of others.
- We promise you won't be embarrassed or pressured to give money or to join the church. There will be an offering plate passed through the pews, simply handing it to the person next to you is all you need to worry about. Relax and focus on experiencing worship.
- We'll be done in an hour so you'll be ready to go pick up your little ones, socialize in the gym or just head home for that afternoon nap.
I want to explore more about GUM Church. What's the next step?
Worship gatherings are just the beginning at GUM. To really begin connecting with new people and taking the next steps in your spiritual journey, visit the welcome center to discuss how you can locate a small group and/or volunteer opportunity that is right for you.