Worship
Wherever you are on life's journey you are welcome here.
We Can’t Go Alone
December 8, 2024
Scripture: Ruth 1 | Ecclesiastes 4:9-12
One of life’s most essential lessons is that we are never meant to go alone. And yet, modern culture pushes us more and more into lonely silos. If Ruth had followed her culture’s norms, she would have gone home to her family of origin after her husband died, but instead, she commits herself to her mother-in-law, Naomi. Together they form a new family and covenant. Ruth and Naomi travel together to Bethlehem at the beginning of the barley harvest, foreshadowing the journey Mary and Joseph will one day take to be counted in the census. Both Ruth and Naomi, as well as Mary and Joseph, are unconventional pairs, but if God can bring unlikely people together, God can form us into a covenant community too.
A Tapestry of Hope: The Advent Quilt on the Chancel
This Advent season, our chancel is graced with a beautiful quilt that serves as a symbol of faith, hope, love, and community. Each square tells a unique story, capturing different aspects of our journey together as a church, and each design invites us to reflect on our callings in this holy season.
The quilt, carefully crafted by our talented members, is more than a decoration. It is a reminder that we are stitched together by shared faith, a common hope, and the enduring love of God. We are incredibly grateful to Marna Balazer, Linda Livingstone, Jackie Anderson, Janet Carson, Jeanne Franks, Jane Hamilton, Cynthia Standefer and Tammy Melvin for bringing their talents to this project. Their artistry has blessed our worship space and enriched our Advent journey.
Look through the picture gallery above to see all the quilt squares and their meanings. If you want to see the finished quilt top, come and worship at Chelsea First UMC this Advent season.
Worship Opportunities
9am Worship Service
Our 9:00 am service blends heartfelt worship with a casual and family-friendly atmosphere. Each week features diverse musical offerings, from our band that leads the music to strings and a variety of vocalists, creating a dynamic soundscape. On the first Sunday of each month, children and youth take an active role in leading worship, bringing fresh energy and perspective. Communion is also celebrated on these Sundays, inviting all to share in God’s grace.
11am Worship Service
The 11:00 am service offers a rich blend of sacred music and heartfelt connection. Our vocal choir, handbell ensemble, pipe organ, and piano provide a vibrant musical backdrop, while congregational singing fills the sanctuary with joy. Lay people and clergy work together to lead prayers, responsive liturgies, and reflections that inspire and uplift. On the first Sunday of each month, we celebrate Communion, extending Christ’s invitation to all.
Live Stream
Both the 9am and the 11am worship services are live-streamed. If you are unable to attend in person, want to see a past worship service, or just want to see what worship at Chelsea First UMC is like, click the link below! Be sure to subscribe to our YouTube Channel.
Join Us for C3: Coffee, Cookies, and Conversation
Between our 9:00 AM and 11:00 AM worship services, there’s a special space for connection: C3—short for Coffee, Cookies, and Conversation!
C3 is more than a time to grab a snack or recharge with your favorite coffee—it’s an opportunity to grow together as a community. This is where stories are shared, friendships are strengthened, and new connections begin.
As you enjoy the warmth of a freshly brewed cup and the sweetness of a cookie, we invite you to take the “3-Person Challenge.” Say hi to three people—someone you know, someone you don’t, and someone you’d like to know better. You never know how a small moment of conversation might brighten someone’s day—or your own!
Whether you’re new to our church or a longtime member, C3 is a chance to experience the joy of fellowship in a welcoming and relaxed environment. So linger a little longer, share a smile, and let’s make C3 a space where everyone feels they belong.
We can’t wait to see you there!
Chelsea First
Our church culture
Chelsea First United Methodist Church (Chelsea First) is a Christ-centered congregation with a positive, open, and engaging spirit. We are a church for everyone, at all seasons of life, and bring a grounded, engaged, and supportive approach to Christian worship while working passionately toward making a positive impact in our community.
The church building is open during regular office hours and Sunday mornings.
Office Hours:
Monday - Wednesday 8-4 pm
Thursday- Friday 8-3 pm
Chelsea First is part of the United Methodist Church.
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