FREQUENTLY
ASKED QUESTIONS
GENERAL
We are a protestant denomination that seeks to create disciples of Jesus Christ. The United Methodist Church was formed in 1968 by uniting The Methodist Church and the Evangelical United Brethren Church. The roots of Methodism can be traced to the revival movement of John and Charles Wesley in 18th century England. For more information about the United Methodist Church, click here.
Absolutely not. The United Methodist Church practices open doors, open hearts, and open minds. Expect to be welcomed and accepted just as you are. If someone does not feel welcomed or accepted in our community, we want to know about it and work to change it.
Our Mission and Values page lays out the foundations of our core beliefs and practices. In addition, twice each year, AHUMC hosts STARS: An Introduction to AHUMC, where anyone who is interested in building a connection to our community can learn about our mission and core values from our pastoral staff. While we offer a number of different courses, services, and community engagement opportunities that can connect you to our community throughout the year, STARS is the best place to learn more about who we are and how we understand our calling. Always feel free to reach out to a staff member or congregant. The best way to learn more about us is to get to know our people.
Absolutely. United Methodists celebrate communion at an open table. All are welcome. There are no conditions. There is also no minimum age. The love of God is free and open to all and we demonstrate this belief in Communion.
Anyone wishing to be baptized or have their child baptized, can pursue baptism in the United Methodist Church, except those who have already been baptized. Because baptism is an act of God, initiating us into the universal church, the sacrament is to be received by an individual only once. If you are interested in pursuing baptism for yourself or your child, visit our baptism page.
There is an opportunity to join our community at every service. During the closing hymn, you are invited to come forward to join the church. Please fill out the "JOIN" card located in the attendance pad and bring with you when you come forward. If you are looking for more information about the church, we offer a new member class twice each year. STARS: An Introduction to AHUMC offers informations about our mission and core values from our pastoral staff. You may also join the church following the completion of the STARS course. For more information about the STARS course, please contact Rev. Darrell Smith.
Our church connects through service in our city, nation and throughout the world. If you are seeking to connect in service, please contact us for service opportunities.
AHUMC is one of the largest hosts to recovery meetings across all of San Antonio. If you want to connect with a recovery group, contact us.
We run a Hope Center that is open during the week and serves people in need in our area. If you have questions about what is covered, please call 210-826-3215.
If you are experiencing a crisis and need immediate assistance, please call our offices at 210-826-3215. To schedule a pastoral conversation, please visit our pastoral care page or complete our contact form.
AHUMC and the Rio Texas Conference have partnered with Safe Gatherings to screen and train volunteers who work with the ministries who serve our children, youth, and vulnerable adults. Both the background checks and trainings are thorough and include best practices to keep our kids and vulnerable adults safe. Every person who works with children, youth, and/or vulnerable adults, including clergy, lay staff, and volunteers, must be certified and/or re-certified through this process. The online certification process is valid for two years after the initial completion of the course.
AHUMC has Induction Loop technology in a large section of the main Sanctuary for those who have hearing aids capable of taking advantage of this technology. Our entire main Sanctuary is also covered by an assisted listening system that can be made available to individuals upon request. Please speak to any usher about how to access these systems. AHUMC does not offer ASL interpretation at this time.
EVENTS
If your home is your “first place,” and where you work is your “second place,” we want AHUMC to be your “third place.” Please contact us here to let us know more about your event and how we can be a third place for you.
Anyone wishing to be baptized or have their child baptized, can pursue baptism in the United Methodist Church, except those who have already been baptized. Because baptism is an act of God, initiating us into the universal church, the sacrament is to be received by an individual only once. If you are interested in pursuing baptism for yourself or your child, visit our baptism page.
We join you in celebrating your marriage. To contact our wedding coordinator regarding availability, please visit our wedding page.
We are sorry for your loss of a loved one. Please visit our funeral page regarding funeral arrangements and we will contact you. It is our goal to serve and support you.
If your home is your “first place,” and where you work is your “second place,” we want AHUMC to be your “third place.” Many groups and events are welcomed at AHUMC for meetings and gatherings of all sorts. Contact Leah Jayne at 210-826-3215 or contact us here to discuss your needs and to find out more about how you can use our beautiful facility for your meeting or event.
Our lovely campus and grounds are often used for photography. You can make prior arrangements to shoot photos/video at the church by contacting us.