OUR CONGREGATION: At SGIUMC we have many visitors and members that worship with us. Because our community is a mix of full-time residents and visitors, our congregation is welcoming to all who walk through our doors.
PARKING AND ARRIVAL: There is ample parking for vehicles, bicycles, and golf-carts (yes-we use golf carts on the island) on 3 sand-covered parking lots adjacent to the church building. There are two main entrances, and whichever one you choose, it is just a few steps into the sanctuary. You will be greeted by many people, including our ushers, who will happily welcome you and answer any questions you might have about our facility, island, and worship service.
CHILDREN: At SGIUMC we welcome our youngest visitors with a gift bag filled with small trinkets and activities. Because there are few children who live on the island, there is no children's Sunday School, but all ages are welcome to worship with us. We love children!
DRESS CODE: When you visit us you will notice a relaxed-dress code. After all, we are on an island and we expect everyone to dress comfortably.
COMMUNION: In the United Methodist Church, Communion is served on the first Sunday of each month and on special days on the Christian Calendar.
The pastor presides over this important rite. In the United Methodist tradition, we say, "Christ our Lord invites to his table all who love him, who earnestly repent of their sin, and seek to be at peace with one another." If you can say you do or have done these three things, you are welcome to receive.
In the Great Thanksgiving, we ask the Holy Spirit to be poured on us and on the gifts of bread and wine we offer. We ask for the Spirit's outpouring to make the bread and "wine" (we serve juice) be for us the body and blood of Christ so we, who receive them, may be for the world the body of Christ redeemed by his blood. We believe God answers this prayer "Yes," and the Spirit does all these things. Christ is really present here, and Christ's presence really changes us.