FAQ

  • Frequently Asked Questions

    Frequently Asked Questions

    We know that visiting a new church for the first time can be intimidating, with all the new faces and seemingly countless unwritten rules.  At GUMC, we want to do our best to make you feel at home and part of the family without being overbearing.  Knowing what to expect usually helps take away some of the apprehension, so we've tried to highlight some common questions and address them here.  If you have any additional questions before or after joining us, please don't hesitate to contact us. 

    What are your weekly office hours?

    The church office is generally open Monday through Thursday, from 9 am until 1 pm.  We're always happy to welcome you during the week, show you around the church, and answer any questions you may have.  Also, feel free to call prior to stopping in to ensure that someone is there to greet you.

    When are your services?

    We have two worship services on Sunday morning - 9:00 and 11:00.  Our 9 am service will offer a more Traditional, choir-based service. The 11 am service will offer a more Modern service, led by a praise band. As of 1.7.2024, we have started that the first Sunday of each month will be a combined service, offered at 9 am and followed by a brunch. This allows all the congregation members to assemble and worship as one in fellowship regardless of what service they typically attend. All services are broadcast live on our Facebook page; please see the link on the main homepage to follow us!

    How long are the services and sermons?

    Our services last about 45 minutes, with the sermon typically between 15-20 minutes in length. 

    How is the parking lot set up?

    We have plenty of parking, both during the week and on Sundays.  We also have several designated areas for handicapped parking in the first row, closest to all the front doors.  There are also designated Visitor parking spaces near the main parking lot entrance.

    What should I wear?

    Please wear whatever you are most comfortable in.  We believe God desires to have your heart, not to have you dress in a specific way.  On a given Sunday, you'll find our church family in anything from suit and tie to casual. 

    Will I be singled out or made to feel uncomfortable if I visit?

    Our congregation intends not to make anyone, member or visitor, uncomfortable. The church doesn't make guests do anything unusual when they visit.  We have a Welcome Center in the Commons Area, where you enter the building from the parking lot, where you can pick up some more information and chat with congregation members to answer any questions.  We intend to be helpful and friendly without overstepping and making someone feel pressured.  Please feel free to introduce yourself to our Pastor, Gary Kubitz, to feel more at ease and welcomed. If you are made to feel uncomfortable, please speak with Pastor Gary Kubitz so that we can make a conscious effort to change and improve our interactions with the community. 

    Do I have to give money?

    We believe how we use our money reflects the heart, so you will notice people giving money; please don't feel obligated or pressured to give.  We give as an act of worship and as part of our understanding of what it means to be a community member.  If you visit with us, you're not obligated or expected to give any money.   

    For our members and those who choose to give, ushers will collect your offerings at both services by passing a plate through the congregation.

    You can also give electronically through the link on this website.

    How do I arrange for myself or my child to be baptized?

    To schedule a baptism, simply talk to Pastor Gary Kubitz.  He's easily accessible on Sunday mornings, greeting everyone on the way in and out the door.  You can also contact us via phone or email to discuss things further; please refer to the contact page for this information.  

    We're interested in marriage at GUMC; what's the process for reserving a date?

    Congratulations!  We rejoice with you as you celebrate your marriage.  To inquire about the availability of dates, please get in touch with us at the church office.  If the date you request is available, we'll send a packet with more details regarding procedures and charges.  The couple then speaks to  Pastor Gary Kubitz directly about the specifics of the wedding, and the office will hold the date upon receiving the form and the required deposit check.

    As soon as possible after scheduling your wedding day, please get in touch with the pastor to set up pre-marital counseling, which is necessary for all persons wishing to be married in the church.  Please do not be nervous about this, but see it as an opportunity for personal and relational growth and a chance to get to know the pastor better.  During this process, there will be plenty of chances to discuss the logistics and the content of the wedding service. 

    How do I become a member?

    If you want to become a member, please talk to Pastor Gary Kubitz.  He is easily accessible on Sunday mornings, greeting everyone on the way in and out the door.  You can also contact us by phone or e-mail to discuss things further.  Those interested in joining take a short new members class with Pastor Gary, after which we'll be thrilled to have you formally join the faith community in a worship service on a Sunday morning.  We typically receive two new member classes each year, one in the spring and one in the fall.