Sunday Worship
Worship in person and online
Wherever you find yourself in life, we want to be a welcoming place for you. Come as you are and receive inspiration, encouragement and support.
Keep scrolling to learn about what to expect during worship at Willow Glen UMC.
Sunday worship services are held at 10am every Sunday, both in-person in our Sanctuary at 1420 Newport Ave in San Jose, and online.
Each Sunday our style of worship is blended – both traditional and contemporary. The traditional style includes the singing of hymns with organ accompaniment, and features our chancel choir and bell choir. The contemporary style is highlighted by grand piano, praise singers and other special music. We believe you’ll enjoy the variety of worship styles each Sunday. Communion Sunday is the first Sunday of the month. All people are welcome to participate in Communion.
What to expect during worship
At Willow Glen UMC we think that church is a place you should be able to come as you are. We’re open and inviting because that’s what Jesus taught us. We follow the United Methodist motto, “Open Minds, Open Hearts, Open Doors.”
We hope you’ll come and allow WGUMC to be a part of your spiritual journey.
What time does regular Sunday service start?
The Sunday service is from 10:00-11:15am each Sunday morning, and combines traditional and contemporary music with piano/organ and praise band.
Where do I go for the in person worship?
The entrance to the main sanctuary is on Newport Avenue on the corner of Minnesota Avenue. There are two sets of big brown double doors that are open before service starts with a sign over them reading, “Willow Glen United Methodist Church.” Please enter here.
What should I wear?
Wear whatever makes you comfortable. Everything from dresses and suits to jeans and sneakers is fine, you’ll see the full spectrum here – from babies to seniors wearing whatever suits them. We’re more interested in having you come worship God with us than what you’re wearing.
What about kids?
We love kids — families and children are a big focus here at Willow Glen UMC. Kids of all ages attend our service. We hold a children’s moment called “A Time for the Child” partway through the service where kids who feel comfortable are welcomed to the front for a special story with Pastor Susan. Afterwards, children ages 3-10 can accompany Pastor Susan to Sunday School or return to sit with their families for the duration of the service.
This summer, we are introducing our Pray Ground — a designated area in the front of the sanctuary where parents and children can quietly engage in thematic activities while experiencing worship together. Our nursery is staffed each Sunday for children younger than 3 and, of course, parents always have the option to simply sit with their children in the pews.
What if I’ve done bad things or I’m not perfect?
You’ll fit right in with the rest of us then. The most important thing we want you to know about Willow Glen United Methodist is that we’re a group of imperfect and broken people trying to find Christ together. We aren’t worried about what you’ve done—we care about where you’re going on your faith journey.
What If I’m not a Christian or come from another faith?
We hope that if you’re not committed to Christ that you’d allow us the privilege of showing you how we worship the Lord. All of us started where you are right now, and some of us are still there. The point isn’t about where you are in your faith journey, but that you’re on a journey, and we’d like to be a part of that journey.