About Us

Our Story & Church History

Our Story & Church History

Decades before I-210 was built as Lake Charles was expanding to the south and new subdivisions were being built to provide homes for expanding industries, the Lake Charles District of the Methodist Church commissioned a new church. With a lot of help from First Methodist Church of Lake Charles, the new church became a reality. 

On September 28, 1947, in an unfinished building on the edge of a prairie in what was then South Lake Charles, the first worship service was held. The name University Methodist was chosen because of its proximity to McNeese Junior College, which later became McNeese State University.

University Methodist Church gained national attention when the Christian Advocate magazine nicknamed the church the Miracle Church, because 226 people became members and 17 infants were baptized on the very first Sunday.

Who We Are

Who We Are

The city has expanded around us and now University United Methodist Church sits in the heart of the city. The church has grown as well and now includes a beautiful sanctuary for traditional worship, a contemporary worship center, Sunday school classes, and a day school wing that houses a week-day preschool. 

After more than 70 years in ministry, University United Methodist Church continues to live out its identity as a miracle church, as a community of imperfect Christ-followers longing to connect with you, to care for each other and our community near and far, and to change the world through Christ’s love.

Connecting people to Christ, Caring for all, Changing the world around us.

Our Vision

Our mission is to make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world.

Our Mission

For Our Guests (F.A.Q.)

As a part of the worldwide United Methodist Church we adhere to a Bible-based, God inspired set of beliefs set forth by our denomination. To learn about United Methodist beliefs, Click below.

What We Believe

There is a parking lot on the west side of the campus, directly behind Jason’s Deli. Handicapped and visitor parking is available in front of the church office, facing Safe Harbor Worship Center.

For worship, please enter the double doors facing west leading into the Sanctuary or through the Good Shepherd entrance through the prayer garden.

The dress is casual. You’ll see some in jeans and t-shirts and others in pants and dresses.

The 8:30 worship service is traditional, featuring the Chancel Choir. 

The 11am worship service is emergent and features the Praise Band. This service also includes an emergent activity primarily aimed for kids to complete during the sermon, but adults are welcome and do participate as well!

Yes. Sunday School is available at 9:45am for ages 4 years – adult.

Check out our separate Sunday School Classes page for more details on classes available!

Sunday School Classes

A nursery is available during both Sunday Services for infants 6 weeks – 4 years. 

The nursery is staffed by qualified childcare professionals and is currently stationed in the Cry Room. 

Yes. Events should be booked by calling the church office at 337-477-2003 or by emailing the church administrator Isaac Burleigh (isaac.burleigh@universitymethodist.com) to schedule a meeting time.

Office Hours: Monday – Thursday from 9:00am -3:00pm and Friday from 9:00am-12:00pm 

The invitation to Christian Discipleship is given at the close of each service.

You may also call the church office at 337-477-2003 to schedule a meeting with the pastor.

Our Team & Leadership