Frequently Asked Questions
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What is a United Methodist?United Methodists believe in the historic Christian faith in God as revealed by Jesus Christ, ever at work in human history through the Holy Spirit. Our faith is grounded in Scripture, informed by Christian tradition, enlivened in experience, and tested by reason. We hold in common with all Christians a faith in the mystery of salvation in and through Jesus Christ, and the belief that God's love is realized in human life in personal experience and in the community of believers. We recognize that the reign of God is both a present and future reality, and that the church is in need of continual reformation and renewal. John Wesley, our founder, has left us a rich theological heritage, geared toward practical theology and love in action. These distinctive Wesleyan beliefs reveal God's creating presence, even though suffering, violence, and evil are always evident. The goodness of creation is fulfilled in human beings, who are called to a committed relationship with God, through Jesus Christ, to work for the wholeness of all creation.
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How are the 9:00 a.m. Contemporary and 10:30 a.m. Traditional Services different?Music
Our 9:00 Contemporary service features music led by Marty and the Methodists, our Worship Band. Once a month, Silas, our Youth Praise Band, leads worship. The music at 9:00 features more praise songs and uplifting contemporary selections, with the occasional traditional hymn or song included too (often with a new twist!).
The music at 10:30 is led by the Chancel Choir, piano, and our historic 27 rank Moller pipe organ. The 10:30 service frequently features special music by guest soloists, our Whitechapel Handbell Choir, and our Instrumental Ensemble. Featuring great songs of the faith, both old and new, the music at this service is guaranteed to inspire!
Children
The 9:00 service includes Children's Time at the beginning, from which children may go to the Summit (for grades K-5) or Sunday School (pre-K), or back to worship with their families. Nursery care is offered every Sunday.
Message
The sermons and scripture lessons at both services are similar. Rev. Dr. Melanie Rosa is known for providing thoughtful and inspiring messages, grounded in scripture and relevant to the realities of modern day life. (Listen to previous sermons)
Summer Worship
During the summer months (Memorial Day to Labor Day) we offer one service on Sunday at 9:00 a.m. The music features a blend of contemporary and traditional music with frequent appearances by guest soloists, and inspiring and relevant sermons by Dr. Rosa. Childcare is offered from 8:30-10:30, and children's Sunday School runs from 9:10-10:00 a.m. -
How do I get to Lakewood UMC and where should I park?
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How should I dress for Sunday services?We are not a congregation that stands on formality. You can feel comfortable in anything from jeans to "Sunday best" suits and dresses. The important part for us is that you're with us – not what you wear!
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I'm not a member of your church – may I still participate in communion?Absolutely! Communion in our church is open to all – we are honored to invite you to share in the table of the Lord with us.
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How do I join Lakewood UMC, and WHY should I?Everyone who has visited our church and feels it is the right place to grow spiritually is welcome to join Lakewood United Methodist church. You may transfer from another Christian church or join by profession of faith (we do ask that you have been baptized). New member classes are offered 4-5 times each year after church services on a Sunday morning. New members are received into fellowship the Sunday following each class. Please contact the Director of Hospitality at 303-237-7768 for more information about the church, the new member classes or joining the congregation.
People join Lakewood UMC for a variety of reasons, but primarily to affiliate with the mission and ministry of our congregation as a part of their personal faith journey. Upon joining, you will be asked to confess your faith in Jesus Christ, and to commit to supporting our church and its mission through your prayers, presence, gifts, service and witness – vows we take very seriously. Non-members are always welcome at any service, function or project of Lakewood UMC, and may serve on most Ministry Teams and Committees. The commitment to join in membership with Lakewood UMC is one we pray you will take seriously. -
I would like to baptize my child (or be baptized myself). What should I do?Lakewood UMC, along with the United Methodist Church recognizes and practices both infant baptism and baptism for adults and older children who have not been previously baptized. We baptize babies whose parents are a part of our congregation, or who commit to raising their children in our community of faith, as a sign of God's unconditional love and acceptance. We baptize adults and older children who wish to publicly declare their faith in Christ and join with the world-wide church in working for God's Kingdom. If you wish to further discuss your or your child's baptism, we invite you to contact either our Sr. Minister Dr. Melanie Rosa, or our Director of Hospitality at 303-237-7768.
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What programs and classes are available for my children?We are pleased to offer a variety of classes, programs and activities for all children, from nursery to high school.
On Sundays (Sept-May), children from K-5 are invited to attend our exciting Sunday School, the Summit after being dismissed during the 9:00 a.m. worship service. Children younger than Kindergarten have their own special class during this same time. Children under age 3 are welcome to enjoy time in our professionally staffed nursery/toddler rooms. Middle and Sr. High school students have their own classes from 10:00 to 11:00 on Sundays. Our youth programs for students in grades 6-8 and grades 9-12 meet separately on alternating Sunday afternoons.
Wednesday nights (Sept-May) are also important for our children. As part of our Wednesday Nights Together, children ages 3 through 5th Grade meet after dinner for Children's Choir practice and fun for Wednesday Nights for Kids (WNK). Youth from grades 6-12 are invited to join our Youth Praise Band, Silas, which also rehearses on Wednesday evenings after dinner.
Lakewood UMC is also proud to offer to the community the first accredited private preschool program in Jefferson County and a thriving Parents Day Out program. For more information on these programs, please contact:
Mary Parkovich, LUM Preschool Director, 303-238-9082
Brenda Stiner, LUMC Parent's Day Out Director, 303-205-0534 -
What programs or classes are available for adults at Lakewood UMC?We offer a wide range of programs and groups to our members and friends.
- Adult educational opportunities on Sunday and throughout the week
- Wednesday Nights Together programs for adults
- Small groups/interest and affinity groups such as Men's Breakfast, United Methodist Women, Seasoned Singles, Senior fellowship, Young Adult activities, etc.
If you have a class, small group or activity you would like LUMC to consider offering, please contact our Director of Adult Discipleship Jim Ward



