First United Methodist Church is a regional and inclusive congregation. We draw members from all parts of Winchester, Frederick County, and surrounding areas.

Church Leadership
First UMC is blessed with strong leaders who willingly use their gifts and talents in leadership and service. Perhaps the strongest indicator of the vitality of the laity is that people readily volunteer when asked, suggest new ideas, and implement new programs with enthusiasm, competence and energy. The creation of a six-person laity team has strengthened lay leadership by listening, advising, teaching and training (in partnership with the pastoral staff) our future leaders. We are blessed to have three excellent Certified Lay Speakers, two Local Church Lay Speakers and several congregational members with strong speaking/witnessing gifts.

First UMC Theology
Theologically we are somewhat moderately conservative, with a strong emphasis on mission. The convictional stance of FUMC is grounded in solid Trinitarian theology that seeks to live out God’s calling - both individually and as Christ’s redeemed body - the church. Undergirding all we do is the belief that all persons are created in the image of God; therefore, children of all ages are treated as valued members in the conversation of faith.

First UMC’s Spirituality
First UMC takes seriously the call to develop spiritual vitality and are deeply involved in the nurture and care of the entire congregation. We recognize that the UMC is diverse in nature and we welcome spiritual based debate which leads to personal growth in the Christian walk. Therefore, opportunities for growth and nurture are offered through a variety of Bible studies including Disciple; newly revamped multigenerational Sunday School program; preaching and teaching times; and various fellowship activities. An excellent measurement of our spiritual vitality is found in the sense of cooperation, community and common purpose which is expressed in mission and outreach among parishioners.

Mission & Outreach
First UMC’s primary form of witness is through the engagement of mission/outreach with the surrounding communities - we seek to bless others because God has so richly blessed us. We are visible in the community through exchange of pulpits, The Palm Sunday Community March, Vacation Bible School, District youth events, Salvation Army, CCAP (Congregational Community Action Program), Teens Opposing Poverty, and many other mission opportunities.

First UMC ministry
First UMC’s ministry and service is modeled on Christ’s teachings found in Matthew 25:34-46. Therefore, our role is to help members to become more receptive to being a loving, caring, sharing and daring witness in order to draw others to the saving grace of Jesus Christ. We seek to be a church that is welcoming, nurturing, and loving with a vision for mission both locally and globally.