Welcome to First UMC of Santa Monica
Welcome to First United Methodist Church of Santa Monica! We are followers of the way of Jesus Christ: loving God, loving neighbors and offering compassion to a world in need. Rooted in the Methodist tradition of personal transformation and social justice, our community is committed to sharing God’s love, grace and hope and to the flourishing of all God’s creation. For over 150 years we have been an active presence in the Westside community and around the world.
We believe every person is of sacred worth and created in God’s image. We welcome you to be a part of our community and worship with us, no matter your age, race, nationality, citizenship, culture, gender identity, sexual orientation, marital status, ability, faith story, or economic situation.
Come and participate in beloved community – a place to belong, whoever you are, just as you are.
SUNDAY MORNING WORSHIP: In-Person and Online
in the Sanctuary each week.
(1008 11th St. Santa Monica, CA)
All Saints Sunday • White Ribbon Memorial • Holy Communion • November 1, 2026
You may join in the service Livestream in real time or later at your convenience. If you have any questions, or are having trouble joining the Sunday online worship service, call the church office at 310-393-8258, or email us at info@santamonicaumc.org.
WORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES
GIVE ONLINE
The community of First UMC Santa Monica actively works to create a place where all people are celebrated and loved for who God created them to be, where all can encounter the deep love, peace, and grace of God, and where we serve together to transform the world. Your participation is now more important than ever to fund all we do, and we appreciate your generous and faithful giving. You may give online here. Thank you!
GROUPS AND EVENTS
PRAYER
MISSION
We at First UMC work in partnership with a variety of groups and organizations throughout our community and the larger UMC to bring hope and healing where it is needed most. Together we can change lives and transform the world. To view our Outreach and Missions page, click here
FIRST UMC PRESCHOOL
Preschool enrollment is OPEN NOW
Click here for form
First UMC Preschool is more than a school. It is a community of parents, teachers and staff to whom the children’s health, safety and well-being is the highest priority. The Preschool was started in 1948 and over the years has gained the reputation as one of the finest in the city. Read more: www.santamonicaumc.org/preschool
“We don’t have to be at the Mother Theresa-level to love our neighbor. The seemingly smallest acts of kindness and compassion can demonstrate the greatest love. In a world where so many feel disconnected and isolated, a greeting and short conversation can make a huge difference. A prayer for someone in need, a phone call or a visit, communicates love for your neighbor, that they are not alone. Volunteering to pack a food box, donate clothing, make a lunch or hygiene kit are tangible ways to say you care to someone you don’t even know. Singing with someone, reading a book with a child, sharing a coffee with someone during our fellowship hour – they all share one thing in common – love for our neighbor….”
– Rev. Greg Batson, excerpt from “Love” Sermon from Sunday, October 25, 2026. Read the sermon
STAY CONNECTED
Click button above to sign up for our weekly Friday Community emails, the
monthly newsletter, Children and Family email, and more!
MONTHLY NEWSLETTER
Horizons: November 2026, by Pastor Greg Batson
“November is a month for both remembrance and gratitude. Sunday, November 1, is All Saints Day, when we remember all of our loved ones who have died and entered new life over the past year. It is an important holy day in the church calendar, for it reminds us of all those who have nurtured and shaped our lives.
We then shift our focus to our Stewardship Campaign over the next three weeks (November 8, 15, and 22). Our theme is “Rooted in Faith, Growing in Generosity.” We are blessed as a congregation to be firmly rooted in this community for over 150 years. We continue to grow and thrive in our ministries today. November 15 is Consecration Sunday, and we encourage you to make a commitment of support with your pledge for 2027….
Read this month’s Sentinel Newsletter here
Safe Sanctuaries®
First UMC takes the safety of the children and youth very seriously. We follow Safe Sanctuaries® practices, which is our commitment to the physical safety and spiritual growth of all of our children, youth, and adults. Read More