Join us for the 6th Annual Pumpkin Games with FUMC Denton Youth! All 6th-12th graders are invited to Avondale Park from 5:30-7:30pm for an evening of fall fun. We’ll meet for dinner and to play baseball with pumpkins, launch them from slingshots, and do some pumpkin bowling. We can’t wait to see you there!

We can’t wait to shine God’s love in our community again this Halloween! As we get ready for our annual Trunk or Treat event, we will need lots of candy. You can donate money for us to purchase candy, bring candy donations to the church, OR you can use our handy Amazon Wishlist to send candy straight to the church. Thank you for your generosity that will bring joy to so many kids in our community!

Join us for our annual churchwide Tailgate Party before the UNT vs. UTSA football game! Come enjoy food, fellowship, and Mean Green spirit as we gather at the Blue Lot for a come-and-go tailgate starting at 11:30am The game kicks off at 2:30pm—so wear your green, bring your energy, and enjoy a fun afternoon with your church family! Please purchase a ticket if you plan to attend the game.

Want to talk about real stuff that you don't always get to talk about in a faith community? Join Krystal & Raegan at 6:30 pm in Flinn Hall for a conversation about your real questions. And pizza. We throw questions into a bucket, then draw them out anonymously and engage them as a community. Together we have an amazing, uplifting and informative time talking real talk! Questions? Reach out to Krystal at kstroud@fumc-denton.com. This Real Talk Y’all is open to all!

This is an intentional safe space for our LGBTQ+ only community to gather for real talk and to support each other. We’ll hang out, have pizza, and submit anonymous questions into a bucket and engage with them as a community. Pizza is provided! This group is open to anyone who is part of the LGBTQ+ community.

Glow by Open is sponsored in part by a Ministry-With Grant from the North Texas Conference of the United Methodist Church. Glow is a space designed specifically by and for LGBTQIA+ folks to come together in creative, Christ-centered community. No matter your doubts or questions, you are welcome here!

Community in Conversation invites you to join others in our community to share a meal and authentic conversation about race and relations. We believe we have more in common than we often realize and through structured dialogue using trained facilitators, participants will be able to share their stories and experiences with each other in a safe and open environment.

• When: Sunday, October 12, 2025 | 4-6pm

• Where: First United Methodist Church, Miller Center | 201 S. 
Locust St, Denton, TX 76201

  • Please use the tunnel door at the intersection of Mulberry and Austin streets (wheelchair accessible)

• Cost: Free (donations are always welcome to fund future events)

We hope you'll join us for an opportunity to listen to each other, learn from each other, and share our experiences in a safe and honest way that we may use these conversations to build and strengthen our community.

This program is a continuation of FUMC Denton’s focus on ending racism and building a loving community by breaking down barriers, learning from each other, and seeking justice.

We are partnering with Project Unity/Together We Dine to host this event.

Another way to further the conversation:
Join us for the Community in Conversation Book Club | 3rd Saturdays, Monthly, 5-7 PM | Patchouli Joe’s Bookstore. Currently Reading: The Science of Racism by Keon West. No time to read? Join the discussion anyway!   

Methodism 101: A 4-week Class starting October 12 in Room 108
Curious about what makes Methodism unique? Join us for Methodism 101, a four-week class exploring the core of our tradition. We’ll dive into Methodist theology, explore our rich history, and unpack how our leadership structure shapes the church today. Whether you’re new to faith, new to the Methodist church, or just ready for a refresher, this class is a great way to deepen your understanding and connection.

Join us for an information session with Denton ISD leadership on Proposition A, the 2025 Tax Ratification Election for Denton Independent School District. Representatives from DISD will present clear, factual information about Proposition A, explaining how the process works, what is included on the November 4, 2025, election ballot, and what it means for school funding in our community.

The session will also highlight the district’s priorities in three key areas: teachers and staff support, safety and security, and student programs and enrichment. This event is open to the whole church and community members who want to better understand this important election.

We look forward to hosting our Denton ISD leadership, our church family and our community to learn how we can support our public schools.

Wednesday, October 8, 2025 | 6:30–8pm | Flinn Hall, FUMC Denton (Sycamore Street side of church)
Childcare is available with RSVP to Pastor Sheryl.

Come informed and empowered to engage with your community about our schools’ future.

Pub Theology is a group for folks with questions about God and life. We meet at a local bar for a discussion-based group. Leaders lead a mini presentation on the topic and what history, the Bible, and other theologians may have to say about it. Our questions examine the topics through the lens of the individual’s life experiences in the group.

Fall 2025 Topics:

• September 4 (Thursday)—Let’s Get In Reformation: The Protestant Reformation

• October 6 (Monday)—Cult Classic: Christian Cults and Fringe Groups

• November 3 (Monday)—God, Gold, and Glory: Christianity and Colonialism

• December 1 (Monday)—Whose Holiday Is It Anyway?: Outside Influences on Christianity

Location: Miss Angeline's, 125 E. Oak Street, Denton, TX 76201

Time: 7pm

Age limit: If you’re under 21 but would like to attend, please check in with Alyssa.

Parking: There's street parking and a parking lot located directly across the street from Miss Angeline's.

Accessibility: There is a ramp on the Oak Street side of Miss Angeline's. There is a chance we will be outside, depending on the weather, but most often we will be meeting in the red room in the center of the venue (directly in front of the restrooms).

Restrooms: There are two gendered bathrooms.

NA options: Non-alcoholic options are available.

Are you new to FUMC Denton or interested in learning more about getting involved? Join us for "Coffee with the Pastors" during the Sunday School hour in Room 108. This is a perfect opportunity to meet our pastors, hear about the many ways you can connect, ask questions about our church and membership. Enjoy a warm cup of coffee, great conversation, and find your place in our vibrant community. We look forward to getting to know you better!

The Bible is full of stories that comfort, inspire, and guide us. But it’s also filled with stories that are confusing, unsettling, even downright weird. From giant sea creatures to vengeful bears, mummies, and goat-like brothers, these tales can leave us scratching our heads. Why are they in Scripture? What do they reveal about God? Should we be afraid—or is there something deeper happening?

Join un Sundays in October at 9am or 11am as we dive into some of the strangest and spookiest stories in the Bible and discover that even in the weirdest places, God’s light, love, and redemption shine through.

We’re canceling Community Dinner on Wednesday, October 1. The City of Denton’s Pumpkin Drop kicks off spooky season that evening at 6pm, and Denton ISD is also hosting a district-wide band event at 7pm. With so much happening in our community that night, we know many of you will be out enjoying those events, so we’ll take a break and see you at the next Community Dinner!

Everyone is welcome to a church-wide community dinner on the 1st Wednesday nights of every month at 6pm in Miller Center. Build deeper relationships in your church community and enjoy your dinner at the church. You can bring your own dinner, bring something to share with the community, or just come hungry—whatever works for you works for us! There are lots of folks already here on Wednesday nights coming to choir, handbells, meetings, studies, etc. Feel free to come and then disburse to other Wednesday night activities. This will be come & go, no pressure to arrive at a specific time or stay long. See you there!

Mondays, September 8, 15, 22, 29
7-8:30pm • Flinn Hall 

Glow LGBTQIA+ Ministry invites you to a four-week class exploring what it means to be queer and Christian—without compromise. If you’ve ever wrestled with questions like “Can I be LGBTQIA+ and follow Jesus?” or “What does the Bible really say about LGBTQIA+ people?”—you are not alone, and you are not the first. Together, we’ll dig into scripture, unpack the “clobber passages,” explore inclusive readings, and reflect on how identity, gender, and sexuality intersect with faith.

Each session will include a short presentation followed by group conversations, led by queer leaders from Glow and supported by Pastors Scott and Raegan. Whether you’re deconstructing, reconstructing, or simply curious, you are welcome to join us! This space is created first and foremost for LGBTQIA+ people who are reconciling their faith and identity—but it’s also for the people who love them and are doing that work too. Whether you’re queer, questioning, or a parent, grandparent, sibling, friend, or partner trying to understand how queerness and Christianity can coexist, this is a space to ask honest questions, explore new ideas, and discover what true affirmation looks like.

Come find community. Come ask your questions. Come see why we believe queerness is not only compatible with faith—but a holy reflection of the nature of God.

Hosted by Glow, a ministry created by and for LGBTQIA+ people, with support from a Ministry With Grant from the North Texas Conference of the United Methodist Churc

Calling all animal lovers! We are excited to invite you and your beloved pets to our annual Blessing of the Animals service. We’ll honor the beautiful bond we share with the creatures God has entrusted to our care. This special event stands as a vibrant testament to God’s love, and the Church's responsibility to care for all of creation. 

Join us in Ivey Garden where we will celebrate our mutual interdependence and the sacred duty we hold as stewards of the natural world. Through this act of blessing, we deepen our commitment to nurturing and protecting the vibrant life that surrounds us.

In memory of Jim Engelbrecht, we’ve invited Carter BloodCare to FUMC Denton! Make a difference and help save lives by making your online appointment today.

All blood types are needed, especially type O and platelets. Invite a friend and a family member and let’s triple the donation!

There are 35 appointment slots to be filled. You will receive a gift from Carter BloodCare when you donate.

Once you arrive on Sunday, check in with the volunteers in Room 108. Walk-ins are welcome! If you did not make an appointment, a volunteer will be able to let you know when you can get started.

Thank you for shining God’s love through your donation that will save lives in our community!

Enjoy a family-friendly night out with your church family! Meet us at Fish N Tails Oyster Bar on University, treat yourself to an easy dinner out, and visit with other FUMC Denton families. All are welcome!

LGBTQ+ Care Training
Thursday, September 25 • 6:30–8:30 PM • Miller Center

We’re honored to welcome Rev. Jenny Bates to lead a special training focused on how to care well for members of the LGBTQIA2S+ community. This session is open to Stephen Ministers, the Congregational Care team, and anyone interested in building a more inclusive and affirming faith community.

Come ready to learn practical tools for offering compassionate, informed, and respectful care to LGBTQ+ individuals in all areas of church life.

Roundtable seating and light refreshments provided.

Join a compassionate, supportive community led by Pastor Sheryl as we journey through the complexities of grief together. This group will meet on Thursdays from Noon to 1:30 pm on September 25, October 2, 9 16, 23, & 30, November 6, 13, 20, & 27, and December 4, 11 & 18 in Room 230. Using the Understanding Your Grief book and workbook by Dr. Alan D. Wolfelt, participants will explore meaningful ways to process loss and find hope in healing. Books are available at the church for $25. Whether your loss is recent or has been with you for some time, you’ll find a space of understanding, shared experiences, and gentle guidance to help navigate this challenging journey. RSVP required using the link below.

Mondays, September 8, 15, 22, 29
7-8:30pm • Flinn Hall 

Glow LGBTQIA+ Ministry invites you to a four-week class exploring what it means to be queer and Christian—without compromise. If you’ve ever wrestled with questions like “Can I be LGBTQIA+ and follow Jesus?” or “What does the Bible really say about LGBTQIA+ people?”—you are not alone, and you are not the first. Together, we’ll dig into scripture, unpack the “clobber passages,” explore inclusive readings, and reflect on how identity, gender, and sexuality intersect with faith.

Each session will include a short presentation followed by group conversations, led by queer leaders from Glow and supported by Pastors Scott and Raegan. Whether you’re deconstructing, reconstructing, or simply curious, you are welcome to join us! This space is created first and foremost for LGBTQIA+ people who are reconciling their faith and identity—but it’s also for the people who love them and are doing that work too. Whether you’re queer, questioning, or a parent, grandparent, sibling, friend, or partner trying to understand how queerness and Christianity can coexist, this is a space to ask honest questions, explore new ideas, and discover what true affirmation looks like.

Come find community. Come ask your questions. Come see why we believe queerness is not only compatible with faith—but a holy reflection of the nature of God.

Hosted by Glow, a ministry created by and for LGBTQIA+ people, with support from a Ministry With Grant from the North Texas Conference of the United Methodist Churc

We’d love to walk this journey of faith with you! Becoming a member at FUMC Denton means committing to grow together through prayer, presence, gifts, service, and witness—never alone, always in community.

📅 Next Joining Day: September 21

Have questions? Email us here to learn more!

Healing Racism in Denton Gathering at Patchouli Joe's Books & Indulgences (221 Hickory St.)

Join us for the Community in Conversation—Denton Book Club as continue the conversation on Citizen: An American Lyric by Claudia Rankine. This bold new book recounts mounting racial aggressions in ongoing encounters in twenty-first-century daily life and in the media. Some of these encounters are slights, seeming slips of the tongue, and some are intentional offensives in the classroom, at the supermarket, at home, on the tennis court with Serena Williams and the soccer field with Zinedine Zidane, online, on TV-everywhere, all the time. The accumulative stresses come to bear on a person's ability to speak, perform, and stay alive. Our addressability is tied to the state of our belonging, Rankine argues, as are our assumptions and expectations of citizenship. In essay, image, and poetry, Citizen is a powerful testament to the individual and collective effects of racism in our contemporary, often named "post-race" society.

What to Expect:
✅ Guided conversation on key themes
✅ Thought-provoking questions to spark discussion
✅ A welcoming space for diverse perspectives

This will be a safe, open, and engaging discussion where we explore Alexander’s insights and reflect on how this impacts our own community right here in Denton. Whether you’ve studied racism your whole life or are just starting, your voice is welcome!

Join us on a special journey to EAF in southeastern Oklahoma to celebrate the 75th birthday of the herd's matriarch, Suzy. The trip will include transportation, lunch, and feed for the elephants. Let’s come together to honor and deepen our understanding of these magnificent creatures!

**When:** September 20, 2025  
**Time:** 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM  
**Cost:** $125 per person  

To reserve your spot, please send a check made out to FUMC - Trippers to Happy Carrico, Trippers' Treasurer, at 1008 Thomas Street, Denton, TX 76201. Alternatively, you can use Venmo at @Happy-Carrico. Be sure to include the trip name in the memo on your check or in the info box on Venmo.

Contact Happy Carrico for more information.

Our Church and Society Speakers Series continues with Jaime Puente, Director of Economic Opportunity at Every Texan.

Join us as we explore the current landscape of immigration in Texas and beyond—focusing on how public policy shapes the lives of immigrant communities and what justice requires of us as people of faith. With years of experience in advocacy and equity work, Jaime will offer insights into how we can respond to immigration issues with compassion, understanding, and action.

Jaime brings deep expertise in advocacy and public policy, with a focus on building equity and dismantling systemic barriers for marginalized communities across Texas. Learn more about Jaime Puente: everytexan.org/jaime-puente

WHERE: First United Methodist Church of Denton Sanctuary (2nd Floor) | 201 S Locust St., Denton, TX 76201

ENTRY: Please enter through the doors at the intersection of Mulberry and Austin Streets (wheelchair accessible)

PARKING: FUMC Denton offers parking behind the church (accessible from Mulberry Street) and in the lot on Sycamore Street. Accessible parking spaces are available on Mulberry Street.

This free event is open to both the FUMC Denton congregation and the wider community. Childcare is availalbe. We hope you’ll join us for this vital and timely conversation.

RSVP Required

Join our next Men’s Book Club at Zera’s Coffee, 420 E. McKinney, Denton. The book chosen is: Who Is Government?: The Untold Story of Public Service by Michael Lewis. Discussion will be encouraged and occasionally we may even talk about the book. Even if you don’t read, come and enjoy the fellowship. Please contact Bob Voss 972-965-9605 for more information.

Book Description: Who works for the government and why does their work matter? An urgent and absorbing civics lesson from an all-star team of writers and storytellers. The government is a vast, complex system that Americans pay for, rebel against, rely upon, dismiss, and celebrate. It’s also our shared resource for addressing the biggest problems of society. And it’s made up of people, mostly unrecognized and uncelebrated, doing work that can be deeply consequential and beneficial to everyone.

Mondays, September 8, 15, 22, 29
7-8:30pm • Flinn Hall 

Glow LGBTQIA+ Ministry invites you to a four-week class exploring what it means to be queer and Christian—without compromise. If you’ve ever wrestled with questions like “Can I be LGBTQIA+ and follow Jesus?” or “What does the Bible really say about LGBTQIA+ people?”—you are not alone, and you are not the first. Together, we’ll dig into scripture, unpack the “clobber passages,” explore inclusive readings, and reflect on how identity, gender, and sexuality intersect with faith.

Each session will include a short presentation followed by group conversations, led by queer leaders from Glow and supported by Pastors Scott and Raegan. Whether you’re deconstructing, reconstructing, or simply curious, you are welcome to join us! This space is created first and foremost for LGBTQIA+ people who are reconciling their faith and identity—but it’s also for the people who love them and are doing that work too. Whether you’re queer, questioning, or a parent, grandparent, sibling, friend, or partner trying to understand how queerness and Christianity can coexist, this is a space to ask honest questions, explore new ideas, and discover what true affirmation looks like.

Come find community. Come ask your questions. Come see why we believe queerness is not only compatible with faith—but a holy reflection of the nature of God.

Hosted by Glow, a ministry created by and for LGBTQIA+ people, with support from a Ministry With Grant from the North Texas Conference of the United Methodist Churc

Sunday, September 14 | 4:30–5:30pm | Monroe Gym

All parents of teenagers are invited to join our new Director of Youth Ministries, Jack Payne, for a special listening session. This will be a chance to meet Jack, hear his vision for youth ministry at FUMC Denton, and share your hopes and feedback for the program. Your voice matters, and this conversation will help shape the future of youth ministry in our church.

Calling All Instrumentalists – That Means YOU!

Do you play an instrument—no matter your age or skill level? Dust it off and join the “All-of-a-Sudden” Orchestra for a joyful, music-filled morning at the 11:00 AM Sanctuary Worship Service!

We’ll gather at 9:30 AM for a lighthearted rehearsal, and then bring the music to life in worship. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just getting reacquainted with your instrument, there’s a spot for you in this come-as-you-are, play-what-you-can orchestra. If you can hold your instrument and make a sound, you’re in!

To help us prepare music and seating, please let Josh Taylor know you’re in!

Come make a joyful noise, connect with fellow musicians, and experience the fun of this one-time musical adventure!

Sundays, Sept. 14 – Oct. 19, 2025 | 10am | Room 206 (new location!)

What does the Bible say about welcoming the stranger? What do current immigration laws mean for people seeking a new life in our country? How can we faithfully respond as people of faith?

Join us for a six-week class exploring the Biblical, legal, and social principles of immigration. Together, we’ll reflect on the realities faced by immigrants today and consider how we, as followers of Christ, are called to journey alongside and welcome those in our communities. This class is open to all and will be led through the lens of justice, compassion, and faithful discipleship.