Welcome!

You are created in the image of God and have inherent sacred worth and dignity. Following the example of Jesus Christ, we celebrate people of any age, gender, sexual orientation, race, ethnicity, ability, marital status, life circumstance and faith background. Wherever you are on your journey, we invite you to share in this life together at Gary Church.


At Gary United Methodist Church in Wheaton, IL, our mission through Christ is to grow in joyful faith and serve all in love.


With deep roots in the community since 1853, Gary Church has vibrant music, kids, youth and adult ministries, plus opportunities for local, national and global missions. Below you will find information or links to help you get to know more about Gary Church. If you have any questions, comments, or concerns please do not hesitate to contact us.

  • Sunday 9 a.m. worship is more traditional in style and includes readings, prayers, a sermon, vibrant music and a children’s message. Kids' Church is available for preschool 3s through grade 3 in the lower level after the children's message. We also livestream the service from the Sanctuary at 9 a.m. on our website and as a recording later in the day.  We offer Sunday School for children, youth and adults at 10 a.m. during the school year. We also provide a coffee time of fellowship, called "Special Blend," at 10 a.m. year-round. Nursery care is available throughout the morning.


    Worship at 11 a.m. on Sundays is a casual atmosphere that features church musicians with familiar hymns and new songs. Nursery care is available.

  • Children are welcome in the Sanctuary with their families. Kids' Church is available for preschool 3s through grade 3 in the lower level after the children's message at 9 a.m.. Nursery care for babies and toddlers is available throughout the morning.

  • Yes. We believe God’s table is open to all and welcome everyone present to participate in Holy Communion. We typically celebrate Communion on the first Sunday of the month at 9 a.m. worship. At 11 a.m. worship, we celebrate Communion on the first and third Sundays of the month.

  • No. Everyone is welcome to worship at Gary Church online or in person and participate in our many activities. We offer classes and events in various formats, including in person and Zoom. You will find many opportunities on the Gary Kids, Gary Youth, Adult Study, Music Ministries, and Mission and Outreach pages of this website.

  • Gary Church is a welcoming and caring congregation. Part of that care of others is to do what we can to help keep people safe and secure. With input from the Wheaton Police Department and other safety experts, Gary Church follows security protocols on Sundays and throughout the week. When we don’t have a greeter posted near an entrance, we keep the door locked. If the doors are locked, please go to Door 5, near the Parking Lot. There you'll find a doorbell and a number to call for access. Church Office hours are Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

  • Parking is available in Gary Church’s west lot and surrounding streets. On Sunday mornings, it is also available in the Hultgren Funeral Home lot (north) and the Clare Woods Academy lot (northeast corner).


What should I wear?

On a Sunday morning you will see everything from suits to jeans, so feel free to wear what you find most comfortable.