" But the crowds learned about it and followed him.
He welcomed them and spoke to them about the kingdom of God,
and healed those who needed healing."  Luke 9:11

Welcome to St. John's!

We are so glad you are checking us out! All are welcome here. Regardless of your age, gender, political leanings, religious background, or any other factor, there’s a place for you at St. John's. Come visit us and see for yourself.

Visiting a church for the first time can be a little scary. We know what it’s like to be a little nervous and unsure of what to expect. Here are answers to some of the visitor questions you may have.
(If you have others, please e-mail us at stjohnsemail@gmail.com.)

Where are you?
St. John's UMC
7372 Marine Rd (That's Rt. 143 east of Edwardsville)
Edwardsville, IL 62025
(Click here to get directions)

What's UMC mean?
St. John's is a member of the United Methodist Church. We are proud to be a part of this global denomination.

What’s the phone number?
618.656.1853

What are your office hours?
Mondays - Thursday 9 am - 4 pm and Fridays, 9 am to noon.

What’s the Sunday schedule?
• Traditional worship at 9 am
• Sunday school for all ages at 10:05 am
• Contemporary service at 11 am
• Coffee Fellowship 8:30am - 10:50am

What's Coffee Fellowship?
People stop in the Fellowship Hall for a chance to chat and have coffee, juice, and doughnut holes. Feel free to just help yourself.

What's the difference between Traditional and Contemporary worship?
The Traditional service is a bit more formal with an Order of Worship and responsive readings. The Contemporary service is a little more casual, incorporating more visual images and often presenting dramas. Musical style is probably the biggest difference. In the traditional service the organ is played, the choir sings and the congregation primarily sings songs from the hymnal. In the contemporary service the praise band leads the congregation in contemporary praise and worship songs.

Do you have communion?
Communion is served the first Sunday of the month. All are welcome to eat at God’s table. Once the pastor has blessed the bread and grape juice, ushers release the congregation by row to go forward and take part.

What do I wear?
Whatever you like. Some people dress up and others dress casually. Don't worry, we don't have any fashion police!

Where do I go when I get there?
Enter through any of our three doors! Our floor plan is simple to navigate. The front doors facing the pond (North side) lead into Fellowship Hall and 2 corridors. One leads to the Ministry Center, and the other leads to staff offices and Sunday school classrooms. The first side door (East side) opens into the hallway of classrooms. The second side door (East side) is the easiest door to access from our main parking lot. Once inside, the Ministry Center is to the left. Regardless of which door you use, you are sure to find a friendly face inside to direct you.

How many other people will be there?
About 150 to 250 people attend each service.

What do my children do?
We welcome families and children of all ages to worship with us. Children can sit with you during the service. A “Kids’ Corner” in the rear of the Ministry Center offers quiet activities for children to borrow during worship. Children ages newborn - 5 years may also play in our nursery or play room under the care of trained childcare providers. Pagers are available so that parents and guardians may be reached.
Children's Church is offered during the 11 am worship service.
Sunday school (Christian Education) is from 10:05 am - 10:50 am. There are classes for ages 3 and up. Preschool through 5th grade Sunday school classes are located along the same hallway. Jr. High and Sr. High classes are located in the classrooms inside the Ministry Center. Nursery care for younger children is also available during this time.

Do Adults go to Sunday School?
Yes! Adult classes are offered on a wide range of subjects, from bible study to current topics. There are currently 7 classes offered in various locations around the church. For a complete listing of classes and locations, refer to the back of the service bulletin which can be picked up in the Ministry Center.

Do you take attendance?
During service, a red pad will be passed around—take a moment to write down your name and address so we can get to know you better, and your e-mail address if you’d like to receive our weekly e-mail newsletter.

I’ve been once or twice and want to get involved; how do I learn more?
Our website contains information on service opportunities, small groups and other ways to get involved. Church leaders will be happy to speak to you in person or by e-mail about ways to connect. And finally, our Outreach Team holds a free Welcome Luncheon one Sunday a month where newcomers are invited to come learn more about St. John’s and what it means to be a member.

For More Information
If you would like more information about St. John’s or the United Methodist Church, call us at 618.656.1853.