About Us

A happy group of children in costumes and an adult choir in blue robes pose for a photo in a church decorated for Christmas with trees and poinsettias.

WHO WE ARE

A Historic Church with a Future-Focused Heart

Immanuel United Methodist Church has been a cornerstone of the Des Moines community for generations. Recently united with Windsor UMC, we are a diverse family of believers dedicated to experiencing God's grace and sharing it with our neighbors. Rooted in the rich traditions of the United Methodist Church, we embrace a Wesleyan theology of grace, open tables, and practical divinity. We are a place where questions are welcomed, doubts are understood, and everyone is invited to experience the transforming love of Christ.

OUR MISSION

Making Disciples for the Transformation of the World

As part of the global United Methodist Church connection, our mission is simple yet profound: to make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world. At Immanuel, this means actively equipping our congregation to live out their faith in their everyday lives, boldly loving our neighbors, and pursuing justice, mercy, and peace right here in Des Moines and beyond.

OUR VISION

A Welcoming Community Where Love Is Lived Out

We envision a vibrant, inclusive church family where every person—regardless of age, background, or life story—finds a deep, authentic sense of belonging. We see a church that acts as a beacon of hope, continually growing in faith, joyfully worshiping together, and tirelessly serving those in need. Our dream is to see lives changed and our city renewed through the radical love of Jesus.

OUR VALUES

What Guides Our Journey

Everything we do at Immanuel is anchored in these core values:

Grace-Filled Community

We believe God's love is unconditionally available to all (prevenient, justifying, and sanctifying grace), and we strive to extend that same open-hearted grace to everyone we meet.

Authentic
Worship

We value engaging, heartfelt worship that honors our beautiful liturgical traditions while eagerly embracing contemporary expressions of praise.

Lifelong
Growth

We are committed to studying Scripture, asking the tough questions, and continually growing in our relationship with God through small groups and personal devotion.

Compassionate
Service

Personal piety and social holiness go hand in hand. We are called to be the hands and feet of Jesus, serving the vulnerable and advocating for good in our local and global communities.

OUR THEOLOGY

Rooted in Grace and United Methodist Tradition

Want to dig deeper into our theological roots? We are a proud part of the United Methodist connection. Discover our core beliefs about the Trinity, grace, the sacraments of Baptism and Communion, and how we live out our faith together.

Explore Our Beliefs

OUR LEADERSHIP

Meet the People
Who Guide Us

Our pastors, staff, and lay leaders are here to support, encourage, and walk alongside you on your spiritual journey. Put a face to a name and get to know the dedicated team that helps make ministry happen every week at Immanuel.

Meet the Team