First time at a Methodist church? Here is exactly what happens — from the parking lot to the last hymn — so nothing catches you off guard.

Reviewed by the Beaverton First UMC editorial team · Fact-checked June 2026

Walking into a church for the first time can feel like showing up to a party where everyone else knows the steps. The truth is, a United Methodist service is gentle, familiar, and easy to follow — and no one is going to put you on the spot. Here is the whole thing, start to finish.

Before the service

Come as you are. United Methodists dress every way you can imagine — a jacket and tie, a dress, jeans, or your favorite team jersey are all at home in the pews.¹ Arriving five or ten minutes early gives you time to park, find a seat, and settle in; a greeter will usually welcome you at the door and help you find your way. You will not be asked to stand up or introduce yourself.¹

What happens in worship

A United Methodist service usually lasts about an hour and follows a simple, recognizable rhythm: gathering music, prayers, one or more Scripture readings, singing, a sermon, an offering, and — on many Sundays — Holy Communion.¹ You will find hymns from the hymnal and, in many congregations, more contemporary songs too. Follow along as you are comfortable: sit, stand, and sing, or simply take it in.

You do not need to know the steps. You only need to show up.

Holy Communion and the open table

If Communion is served, you are welcome at the table. The United Methodist Church practices an “open table,” which means anyone seeking a relationship with God is invited — you do not have to be a member, or a United Methodist, or even certain what you believe.¹ At Beaverton First we share Communion on the first Sunday of each month.³

Children, and what happens after

Infants and kids of every age are welcome in worship, and most United Methodist churches offer a nursery.¹ After the last hymn, stick around: there is usually coffee and conversation, and it is the easiest moment to ask a question, meet a few people, or simply say hello before heading home.

What to expect at Beaverton First, specifically

We worship on Sundays at 11:00 a.m. in downtown Beaverton, in person and by live stream.³ We are an openly affirming, Reconciling congregation, so the welcome you read here is meant for everyone, and if you are still deciding whether to come, our guide to finding a welcoming church in Beaverton may help.² Come as you are; there is no dress code and no pressure.

Questions people ask

What should I wear to a Methodist church?

Whatever is comfortable. From dressy to casual, you will fit right in — there is no dress code.¹

How long is a United Methodist service?

About an hour, give or take.¹

Do I have to take Communion, or be a member?

No. Communion is an open invitation, never a requirement, and you never have to be a member to worship, to take part, or to feel at home.¹

Ready to come see for yourself? Here is everything for your first visit — service time, directions and parking, and our live stream: plan your visit to Beaverton First. And if you want the bigger picture, here is the story of Methodism in brief.