Where Do You Fit In?

Jesus told us, His followers, to make disciples of all nations. One of the most important values of the United Methodist Church is our mission to the world. It begins in our own community, and spreads overseas to every nation. JUMC members are involved in a variety of ministries from delivering flowers to the hospital, collecting food for the hungry of Baton Rouge, to creating flood buckets used throughout the world.

We welcome you to visit and see what we are about. You don’t have to be a Methodist, or even a Christian! Our membership of over 750 welcomes all with open hearts, open minds and open doors! Join our e-newsletter!

Worship & Communion

Every Sunday our Pastors Roger Lathan and Steve Berger lead the congregation in worship. We believe in worship through music, prayer, and message. Monthly, we celebrate communion (1st Sun in am, 3rd Sun in pm) and believe in an open table for all who proclaim Jesus as their Savior. Communion is a remembrance of Jesus’ act of love and the present forgiveness of our errors or sins. If you are new to church, we are happy to explain the power of forgiveness offered to each of us.

Adults

JUMC is thrilled to invite you to the many opportunities to get closer to God, new friends and your purpose. We offer groups, classes, worship, ministry, and visitation. Eight morning Sunday School classes are offered at 9:20am and open to all. Two evening Sunday School are at 5pm. We have over ten groups specifically for men, women, moms, young adults, seniors, couples, families, singles, and more as needs arise.

Youth

Under the guidance and support of Youth Director Jennifer Bates, and husband Larry, our Youth are the next generation of church leaders. It is most important that they receive the respect they deserve, while continuing their Christian learning in a safe, caring community. Our Youth share Fellowship, Sunday school and group at various times throughout the week.

Children

Through the leadership of Lynn Hains, our Children’s Director, we offer kids’ groups, classes, worship, and a free nursery. Over six Sunday School classes for toddlers and school children are offered at 9:20am and open to all. Evening Sunday School is at 4:30pm for children during the academic year. We offer groups of our Tweenagers (grades 4-6) and Confirmation study for 6th grades (and those older not yet confirmed). During the school year, we offer an exceptional half day preschool from children 18 months to pre-K. Please call the office for more information on our preschool.

Music & Drama

God-honoring worship is something for which we strive. Many church members are involved in our music and seasonal drama ministry. Some play their instruments. Some are vocalists. Others are involved in the choir. Still others get involved in Christmas or Easter drama. Led by Choir Director John Sallinger and Pianist Henry Jones, our morning choir garners applause weekly.

Our Contemporary Band, Jacob’s Ladder, leads the Sunday evening Night Light service in Praise and Worship.

Worship Helpers

JUMC allows members to take an active role in worship. Ushers are involved in directing attendees to their seats, ensuring the safety of the building during services, guiding traffic, helping visitors, and answering questions. Greeters are the front line and welcome visitors and members alike. Scripture readers communicate the passage each week. Communion servers are called upon to offer the bread and juice. Our technology team oversees the sound system and visuals. Prayer and children sermon are also led by the laity (non-Pastors) of the church.

Children’s Church (pk-3rd)

In order to give our children the best Bible teaching possible, JUMC leaders, Tina Murrell and Janie Hano, hold children’s church in conjunction with the main service. This special time gives kids more opportunity for interaction and learning in a context and manner that may be better suited to their age and learning styles. Our friendly children’s church teachers have an endless stream of creativity–ranging from puppet shows, to games, to object lessons. Children are escorted after the Children’s Message on non-Communion Sundays.

Prayer Warriors

Prayer cannot be understated. JUMC is a body of believers dependent upon prayer, and committed to God’s sovereignty. Each Tuesday evening, a team of volunteers prays at the foot of the cross for the needs of our members and anyone who has called upon JUMC with a concern. Throughout the week, volunteers on our Prayer Team receive emails of new prayer needs.

Service to Others

Throughout the year, JUMC is called upon to help those less fortunate. We have regular food collections, support the UMC greater mission (UMCOR), and have special connections to many Baton Rouge non-profit agencies that help children, women, and others in need, such as BraveHeart, AngelTree, Battered Woman’s Shelter, HOPE Ministries, Jefferson Elementary School, and more. At times of special need, like hurricanes, JUMC is here to answer the call. Our Pumpkin Patch in October raises funds that are used in the community.