We gather for worship every Sunday at 10:30 AM, both in person and online.
University United Methodist Church is located at the corner of East Genesee Street and University Avenue in Syracuse, New York.
Can't join us in person? Worship with us live on Facebook, or watch past worship services anytime on our YouTube channel.
Our church faces 1085 East Genesee Street, but our accessible entrance is located on 324 University Avenue.
Free off-street parking is available next to and across from the University Avenue entrance. Our building is equipped with an elevator and ADA-accessible restroom facilities.
Shirt. Bottoms. Shoes. That's it!
Seriously, come as you are. You'll find people wearing everything from jeans and sneakers to dresses and suits. We believe worship is about showing up as yourself, rather than dressing a certain way.
Absolutely not!
You don't need to be Methodist, a member of any church, or even certain about what you believe to worship with us.
Our congregation includes people of different ages, income levels, nationalities, racial and ethnic backgrounds, political perspectives, and life experiences. Members and friends travel from across Onondaga County to worship and serve together.
We are a Reconciling Congregation committed to welcoming and affirming LGBTQ+ people and celebrating the sacred worth of every person.
Our Sunday worship blends the rich traditions of the United Methodist Church with thoughtful preaching, prayer, music, and opportunities for reflection.
You'll experience hymns accompanied by organ or piano, music from our choir, Scripture readings, and messages that connect faith with everyday life and the challenges facing our world.
Our worship is participatory, but you're always welcome to observe, listen, and engage in whatever way feels comfortable. When we invite people to stand, we encourage everyone to stand in body or spirit.
We celebrate Holy Communion on the first Sunday of each month, and everyone is welcome at Christ's table.
Worship services typically last about one hour, while services that include Holy Communion generally last about 90 minutes.
Absolutely! Children are an important part of our church family.
Children are welcome to participate in worship alongside their families. A Children's Table in the sanctuary offers art supplies and activities, providing a space for children to engage creatively during the service.
We also offer a designated childcare space for children ages four and younger, staffed by a trained provider. Our congregation follows Safe Sanctuaries practices to help create a safe and nurturing environment.
Families are always welcome to choose what works best for their children.
No! We want you to feel welcome without feeling put on the spot.
You're invited to participate as much or as little as you feel comfortable. We hope you'll introduce yourself when you're ready, but there's no pressure.
After your third visit, we may invite you to share your name and pronouns so we can create a personalized name badge. This is entirely optional, but it's one small way we get to know one another and build community. Whether you choose to wear a name badge or not, you belong here!
Yes! Christ's table is open to all.
In the United Methodist tradition, Holy Communion is an invitation to experience God's grace. You do not need to be a member of University UMC, a Methodist, or any particular denomination to participate.
If you prefer not to receive Communion, you are welcome to remain seated in prayer or reflection.
You're in good company!
We believe questions are an important part of spiritual growth. At University UMC, we encourage curiosity, thoughtful conversation, and respectful engagement with different perspectives.
You don't have to have everything figured out to belong here. We journey together, learning from Scripture, tradition, reason, experience, and one another.
Our mission is Feeding God's People: Body, Mind, and Spirit.
We believe faith comes alive through compassionate action. From food distribution and clothing ministries to educational opportunities, community partnerships, and advocacy for justice, we seek to make God's love tangible in Syracuse and beyond.
There are many ways to get involved, whether through volunteering, participating in a study, joining a ministry, or simply building relationships.
We invite you to stay for fellowship and conversation after worship in our Gathering Room, located directly across from the elevator on the first floor. It's a wonderful opportunity to meet others, build friendships, ask questions, and learn more about our community.
Whether you stay for a few minutes or head out after worship, we're grateful you joined us. There's always a place for you at University UMC!
We'd love to get to know you!
If you have questions about our church, want to explore your faith, or would simply enjoy a conversation, you're welcome to connect with Pastor Aaron Carlson.
Schedule a conversation with Pastor Aaron
Wherever you are on life's journey, there is a place for you at University UMC.