Where is Church Street UMC located?
First answer---not on Church Street! We are located at 900 Henley Street at the corner of Henley and Main in downtown Knoxville, Tennessee. We are next to the Henley Street Bridge and the Knoxville Convention Center. The campus of the University of Tennessee is within walking distance. For additional details about how to find us, visit our Find the Church page.
Why is Church Street UMC not located on Knoxville’s Church Street?
The original congregation did, of course, worship on Church Street…until a fire destroyed the building. That congregation decided to rebuild at the Henley Street location because of the building of the Henley Street bridge over the Tennessee River.
The first worship service at the new location was held on January 29, 1931 with more than 1,000 persons in attendance.
Where & when are the church services?
Our two morning services are held on Sundays at 8:30 am and 11 am. Community worship for our homeless neighbors is held on Mondays at 6 pm in the Chapel.
A midweek Communion service is held at 12 noon on Wednesdays in the Chapel.
What are the services like?
Church Street’s Sunday morning services focus on worship and preaching. We’ll share some announcements during the morning, express our hearts to God through music, seek God's intercession through individual and corporate prayer, and hear teaching about God’s word.
What should I wear?
Dress comfortably. Though we have members who dress up, we don’t worry about what you wear. We are just happy to have you worship with us!
Will I have to say anything or sign anything?
Don’t worry…you will not be put on the spot, singled-out or embarrassed. To have a record of your attendance, we would like you to sign “Ritual of Friendship” pads which are located in the pews.
What about my kids?
A nursery is available for infants through age 2 and is located in room 116 where children are nurtured by trained, experienced childcare workers. Sunday school classes and other opportunities are available for children and youth.
Check out the Children’s Ministry page and Youth Ministry page for more details. NOTE: We are a Safe Sanctuaries Congregation.
I’m not a member….can I receive Communion?
Yes, United Methodists have an “open” table, meaning all persons are invited to receive the elements.
What about Christian education?
Sunday School classes for all ages are offered beginning at 9:40 am between the two morning worship services. In addition, a variety of Bible studies, book studies, lectures, etc. are available throughout the week and year. Check out the Sunday School page for more details.
How do I find a Sunday School class?
Ask any of our ushers or greeters. Also, a Sunday School brochure can be found in the church literature racks. Check out the Sunday School page for more details.
Can I get married at Church Street?
If you are a member of Church Street UMC and would like to schedule a wedding, please contact Kelly Woods at (865) 521-0262. Please note: Weddings are held for those who are members of Church Street or for whom there is a close Church Street affiliation.
How can I find out what’s going on at Church Street UMC?
First, check out the various areas of this website. When you visit us in person, pick up our weekly newsletter, The Messenger, from the church literature racks. You may also check out This Week at Church Street on the home page and our events calendar found under News & Events.
Church Street seems like a very large church….won’t I get lost in the crowd?
Church Street is a large church with over 2,600 members. However, the wonderful thing about our size is that we are able to offer ministries that appeal to persons of all ages and many different interests. The best way to be involved in a large church is to get involved in a smaller group. Sunday school classes, Bible studies, mission teams, choirs, and committees are wonderful ways to make that happen. Contact any member of the clergy staff for more information.
What do United Methodists believe?
The purpose of the United Methodist Church is to make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world. As United Methodists we are united in service, mission and love. Persons who become members of any United Methodist Church agree to support the work of that church with their prayers, their presence, their gifts, their service and their witness.
The United Methodist Church website (www.umc.org) provides more definitions and a wealth of resources for learning about United Methodism.
What if I have more questions?
Please contact the Church Office at (865) 524-3048 or by email to Church Street.
You may also contact a member of the clergy or church staff directly.