Frequently Asked Questions

Why does the YMCA have a church that worships in its building?
The YMCA approached Sulphur Grove UMC about a partnership when they were looking to build a new YMCA in Huber Heights. The YMCA is a Christian organization (Young Men's Christian Association) and wanting to strengthen that connection as well as wanting to make strategic partnerships to build healthier YMCAs led them to partner not only with Sulphur Grove UMC but also with Grandview Hospital.

Why is a church meeting at the YMCA?
When the YMCA approached Sulphur Grove UMC, we eagerly agreed to a partnership. The Taylorsville campus of Sulphur Grove already has two healthy worship services that are traditional in nature. A partnership with the YMCA enables us to expand already healthy ministries as well as giving us the opportunity to offer a non-traditional service in a great location.
We are excited about our partnership with the YMCA because even though our mission is not the same, we strive to create what the YMCA works to create:
Strong kids, strong families and strong communities.

What if I want to learn more about the United Methodist Church?
The United Methodist Church is a diverse group of people who are seeking a stronger connection with God and with the world. For more information about the United Methodist Church, check out the official website www.umc.org

What should I wear to church?
Our worship services are very relaxed and dress is casual. We encourage you to dress comfortably.

Where do I go on Sunday mornings?
Our worship services are held in the gymnasium. Every Sunday morning we arrive early and work to transform the gym into a worship space. We roll out carpet, set up chairs and plug in lights, sound, computer and other equipment. We are intentional about making the YMCA ready for your presence on Sunday morning. There are directional signs and people to assist you as soon as you arrive.

What happens during worship?
We vary our worship gatherings so it is hard to explain what will happen on any given Sunday. These elements of worship are usually present:

• Singing
• Prayer
• Bible readings
• Message
• Application of God's word to our world
• Offering

It is important to us to create an environment where you feel welcomed. You are encouraged to participate in worship at whatever level you feel comfortable.

What will be expected of me?
Frequently people fear feeling 'stupid' when they enter a church. That fear is normal anytime we go to experience something new. To help relieve some of those fears, here are just of few things that we will NOT expect of you:
We do not expect you to know anything about the Bible.

We do not expect you to stand up and introduce yourself to everyone who is there.

We do not expect you to give us any information about yourself although there will be a pad that we pass around where you could give us contact information about yourself if you would like.

We do not expect you to do anything that makes you feel uncomfortable.

What we do expect is that you have come with a mind that is curious and maybe a heart that is searching. Although you come with very natural reservations, we hope that you will be open to receive what we have to offer - help and direction as you embark upon or continue your  spiritual journey.

What is offered for children?
You and your children have a couple of different options available to you. If you would like to keep your children with you throughout the worship experience, you are more than welcome to do so. We do not want you and your family to feel uneasy about your Sunday morning worship experience so you are invited to use the resources we provide only if you comfortable are doing so.

For infants and toddlers

We do have a nursery that is available for infants and toddlers with paid child care providers who have been trained in First Aid and CPR and have passed background checks. This service is offered at no cost to you.

For older children

For older children we offer a Christian educational opportunity during part of the worship service. After the singing time in worship, children will be invited to go to the YMCA's multi-purpose room where they will be taught a Bible lesson through age appropriate crafts and activities.

Who will I meet?

The people who worship on Sunday mornings make up a variety of ages and life stages. You will see children; teenagers; and people in their 20s, 30s, 40s, 50s and 60s. You will see students, college students, engineers, teachers, nurses, business owners, white collar workers, blue collar workers, work at home moms, musicians, and lots of other people too! You will see single people, couples, young families, couples without children, families with teenage children, couples with grown children, and couples with grandchildren.
Most importantly, you will meet people who are like you, searching for meaning and direction as they try to live faithful lives in a sometimes difficult and scary world.