University United Methodist Church of Irvine, CA jobs

Our Mission

Transforming Lives Together: Disciple Making in Our Local Church Community

The mission of the University United Methodist Church is to make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world. Local churches and extension ministries of the Church provide the most significant arenas through which disciple-making occurs.

Core Values

Creating an inclusive environment that welcomes all individuals

Community and Fellowship: Importance of building a supportive and loving church community.

BELONG

Everyone belongs here; join a small group to learn or serve.

BELIEVE

Grow in faith by joining a study group.

BE LOVE

Be Christ’s hands and feet, showing love to our community and the world.

Our Attributes

Essential qualities or characteristics

Attributes which help create a welcoming and spiritually enriching environment for members and visitors alike.

• We follow Jesus wherever the Spirit leads.

• We are a safe place focused on grace, not guilt.

• Our heart is in mission, locally and globally.

• We are part of the United Methodist Church but our allegiance is to Jesus.

• Generosity is a privilege and honor.

• We invest significantly in children and youth programs.

• Our music program is renowned for its quality and fun.

Our History: Serving God since 1966

The University United Methodist Church was founded in 1966 to serve the growing city of Irvine and the new University of California campus. Rev. Jim Stewart was appointed as the first minister. Initially, around sixty families gathered at St. Mark Presbyterian in Corona del Mar. They saved money and secured a loan to purchase a lot at Culver and University Dr. The groundbreaking ceremony was held in September 1968, and the first service took place in June 1969. Stewart Hall was also built for Sunday school and meetings.

The church grew rapidly and helped other new churches. It initially shared facilities with Elizabeth Ann Seaton Catholic Church, an Assembly of God Congregation, and the Israeli Academy. Today, it collaborates with the Japanese-speaking Nozomi congregation and the Korean-speaking Irvine Korean UMC.