ABOUT US
Located in the heart of Lexington, First United Methodist Church is a vibrant community rooted in tradition, centered in Christ, and committed to loving God and neighbor.
The Downtown Community of First United Methodist Church
Rooted in the heart of Lexington, the Downtown community is one of three unique worshipping communities of First United Methodist Church.
We are also one of Kentucky’s historic Methodist congregations, with a rich legacy, a vibrant present, and a hopeful future. Our congregation includes people of all ages and life stages, coming from downtown, across the city, and neighboring communities—all united by a shared desire to grow closer to Christ as we worship, grow, and serve together.
WORSHIP
Worship invites us into a rhythm of reverence and beauty, shaped by scripture, liturgy, song, and the enduring presence of God.
Worship
Worship is a gift we share together. Each week, we gather to listen for God’s Word, lift our hearts in prayer and praise, and open ourselves to transformation.
Our traditional worship services are marked by reverence and beauty, featuring a chancel choir, organ, hymns, and liturgical elements such as acolytes, creeds, and traditional prayers. We hold a deep appreciation for the beauty of God revealed through music; most Sundays, in addition to a choral anthem, you’ll experience a rich variety of special music offerings.
Communion is celebrated on the first Sunday of each month, and everyone is welcome at the Table. You can also join us online—our 11:00 AM service is livestreamed every Sunday.
Children’s Worship
We deeply value the presence of children in worship and celebrate their active participation. At the same time, we recognize the importance of providing a worship space tailored just for them. Each Sunday, children begin in worship with the whole congregation before transitioning to their own time of children’s worship after our children’s moment where kids of all ages are invited down front to hear a message specifically for them.
NURSERY
Nursery care for children 6-weeks thru preschool is available during the Sunday school hour (9:45 AM – 10:45 AM) as well as for Sunday morning worship.
Music
Music at Downtown is central to our worship—it glorifies God, inspires the gathered community, and creates space for all to enter into the presence of the divine.
Sunday mornings are brought to life by the voices of our choral scholars and a multigenerational choir. Throughout the year, special services feature orchestral accompaniment—beloved traditions like the Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols, Christmas Eve worship, and the solemn Good Friday Tenebrae. We’re also regularly enriched by local talent, welcoming community music groups and student ensembles from nearby schools and universities to share in worship and offer concerts.
GROW
Age-Level Discipleship
We believe that following Jesus is a lifelong journey best done in community.
Adult Discipleship
We believe biblical learning, theological reflection, and soul care happen best in small, intentional communities. Whether you’re a longtime member or visiting for the first time, there’s a place for you to grow in faith alongside others. From Sunday School classes and small groups to music ministry, book studies, and fellowship gatherings, we offer many ways to follow Christ more deeply—together.
Children & Youth Discipleship
We want every child to know they are deeply loved by God and created in God’s image. Through age-appropriate programs and meaningful milestones, we walk with children and youth from birth through high school—helping them grow in faith, love others well, and live fully for God.
Learn More about Children's Ministry
Learn More about Youth Ministry
SERVE
We seek to embody Christ’s love through acts of service and generosity.
Serve
Whether through hands-on outreach, financial giving, or partnerships with local organizations, we are committed to making a tangible difference in our community and beyond. You can learn about just a few of our serve partners by clicking on their logo.
Parking
PARKING
On Sunday mornings we have two parking lots available to us, as well as on-street parking. The parking lot directly adjacent to the church building is primarily for guests, people with mobility concerns, and families with small children. The Truist Bank parking lot directly across High Street is open to all — guests, regular attenders, staff, volunteers, etc. You can enter the church building through the front doors at the top of the steps on High Street, the front door of the Parsonage on High Street, or through the flat, accessible entrances connected to the church lot at the rear of the building.
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