All are Welcome at Grace!

You have many choices in your search for a church home. In fact, even coming to church at all is a choice. We're happy you're visiting Grace online and we hope you decide to explore further! We recognize that everyone who enters the doors has a different story, need, and gift to share. We also recognize - and celebrate! - that all of God's people are loved and equally cherished in His kingdom. Following the example of Christ, we at Grace welcome people of all faiths (or none), all races, orientations, and identities. Know that we are here to assist you in your journey of faith as much or as little as you find helpful.

Grace embraces diversity in our congregation. We dedicate ourselves to a ministry of Christ-like hospitality and compassion. We believe all persons are of sacred worth.
You are welcome here! The Mission of Grace UMC is forming disciples of Jesus who further the Kingdom of God.

Your first time through the door, look for the Welcome Desk by the Sanctuary entrance. There you will find Pastor Mark Himel or one of our other hospitality hosts who ensures first-time guests find their way at Grace. Pastor Mark can help with anything from, "Where is the nursery?" to "What is your belief about baptism?"

Breathe Easy at Grace!

The air in our Sanctuary runs through an ionization system that disarms pathogens (including viruses such as COVID and Flu). Charging dust and other particles in the air causes them to be attracted to each other and be caught in filters. It removes 99+% of the particles in the air, and refreshes the Sanctuary air every 20-30 minutes. Running the ceiling fans assists in this process.

The frequently asked questions below may also be helpful. Please feel free to contact us at hello@peopleofgrace.org or 630-355-1748 if you have further questions.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Where are you located?

Grace is located at 300 E. Gartner Road, Naperville, IL, 60540, about 1.5 miles south of downtown Naperville.

2. When is worship?

We have three unique worship services on Sunday morning at 8:00 a.m., 9:00 a.m., and 10:30 a.m. We invite you to learn more about our worship services, or just show up to one that is convenient for you!

3. What do you mean by "unique worship services?"

We have arranged our services so there is something for the traditional church-goer, the contemporary worshiper, and everything in between! Not sure which service would be right for you or your family? We have additional details about each service to help you choose.

4. What do children do during the services?

Children of all ages are always welcome to join their family during any of our worship services. We also provide childcare for infants and toddlers all morning on Sundays. For preschoolers through high school, we offer Sunday School classes during our 9:00 a.m. service.

5. How long has Grace United Methodist Church been in Naperville?

Grace has served Naperville and surrounding communities for more than 125 years. It was established in 1891 and, since that time, has occupied three building sites. The third and present site opened its doors in 1971 and has undergone several expansion/improvement projects over the past four decades.

6. How does communion work at Grace?

Communion is served every week at our 8:00 a.m. and 9:00 a.m. on Sunday. Communion is served the first Sunday of every month at our 10:30 a.m. service. There is no requirement of membership at Grace to receive communion. Grace welcomes everyone to the table of Christ.

7. What Holy Days are observed at Grace?

Holy Days observed are those in the season of Lent (Ash Wednesday, Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, Holy Saturday, and Easter Sunday), the four Sundays of Advent, Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day. While not a Holy Day, Thanksgiving is celebrated with a special Thanksgiving Eve service in gratitude for God's many blessings. Weekly bulletins announce where we are in the liturgical calendar of the Christian church.

8. What other special sacraments or services does Grace offer?

Grace offers Baptisms and Holy Communion, as well as funeral and memorial services, weddings, and confirmation. Please send us an email or give us a call at 630-355-1748 for more information.

9. Okay, Grace is where I want to be. How do I become a member?

Membership classes are offered every 6-8 weeks on Sunday afternoon and even include lunch! Upon completion of the membership class, new members are welcomed the following week at the service of your choosing.

10. What are the roots and general beliefs of the United Methodist Church?

The United Methodist Church traces its roots back to John Wesley, a preacher in the church of England in the 18th Century who discovered that in order to truly spread the Gospel, it was necessary to travel and preach to where the people were. This sense of outreach and mission to people in need is a hallmark of the Methodist Church. For more on the beliefs, traditions, and principles of the United Methodist Church, visit www.umc.org.

11. So, other than worship, what else does Grace provide for me and/or my family?

There are way too many activities for every age and interest to list them all here! A good place to start is to learn about our Mission Teams.. Our Music Ministry is also renowned.

12. I have more questions! How can I get them answered?

The best way to get all of your questions answered is to join us at one of our worship services! You are also welcome to send us an email or give us a call at 630-355-1748.