About Us

Our Mission Statement

Transforming Lives Together: Disciple Making in Our Local Church Community

The mission of the University United Methodist Church is to make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world. Local churches and extension ministries of the Church provide the most significant arenas through which disciple-making occurs.

Core Values

Creating an inclusive environment that welcomes all individuals

Community and Fellowship: Importance of building a supportive and loving church community.

BELONG

Everyone belongs here; join a small group to learn or serve.

BELIEVE

Grow in faith by joining a study group.

BE LOVE

Be Christ’s hands and feet, showing love to our community and the world.

Our Attributes

Essential qualities or characteristics

Attributes which help create a welcoming and spiritually enriching environment for members and visitors alike.

Our History

Serving God since 1966

The University United Methodist Church was founded in 1966 to serve the growing city of Irvine and the new University of California campus. Rev. Jim Stewart was appointed as the first minister. Initially, around sixty families gathered at St. Mark Presbyterian in Corona del Mar. They saved money and secured a loan to purchase a lot at Culver and University Dr. The groundbreaking ceremony was held in September 1968, and the first service took place in June 1969. Stewart Hall was also built for Sunday school and meetings.

 

The church grew rapidly and helped other new churches. It initially shared facilities with Elizabeth Ann Seaton Catholic Church, an Assembly of God Congregation, and the Israeli Academy. Today, it collaborates with the Japanese-speaking Nozomi congregation and the Korean-speaking Irvine Korean UMC Church.

Lasting Legacy

The church is quite active in its mission work, both locally and globally.

Our church campus consists of five distinct buildings and an enlarged sanctuary that can now accommodate up to 500 people. We are proud to be in partnership with Families Forward, where we assist families with food and housing.

Diverse and Inclusive Community

The church embraces a wide range of ethnic, racial, cultural, economic and social backgrounds, creating a vibrant and inclusive community. This diversity is reflected in our various services, including English, Korean, and Japanese-speaking services.

Strong Emphasis on Service and Outreach

The church is deeply committed to service, both locally and globally. We engage in community outreach, social gatherings, and overseas mission trips, fostering a spirit of service and connection among our members.

Music

Our outstanding choir, led by John Carpenter, has performed at Carnegie Hall

Learn More

More about Our Church

How To Join

We Warmly Welcome Everyone To Join Our Church Community.

Services

We offer 3 types of services.

Staff

Meet the team.

Worship Services

Sunday Worship Communities: Celebrating Unity In Diversity​

Traditional-English Language Worship: 9:30am in the Sanctuary

Irvine Korean UMCWorship: 11:00 am in the Sanctuary

Nozomi-Japanese Language Worship: 1:00 in the Education Building

Where Are We?

You can find us at:

18422 Culver Drive​
Irvine, CA 92612​

F.A.Q.

Frequently Asked Questions

Join us for our weekly services, either in-person or online:

  • Traditional English Service: 9:30 AM in the Sanctuary
  • Irvine Korean Service: 11:00 AM in the Sanctuary
  • Nozomi Japanese Service: 1:30 PM in the Education Building

We are located at 18422 Culver Drive, right at the corner of University Drive and Culver Drive in Irvine, California.

Feel free to wear whatever makes you comfortable! There’s no specific dress code, but casual attire is perfectly fine. Just be yourself!

Join us for our 9:30 AM spirited traditional service! This service features classic Methodist liturgy and hymns, beautifully led by organ or piano. You’ll experience a time of gathering, congregational praise singing, Scripture readings, a sermon, prayer, giving, and response. Our aim is to create a meaningful encounter with God, fostering authenticity, faith, hope, and love. Plus, enjoy our wonderful choir and exceptional vocalists who bring the Bible message to life in song each Sunday!

All of our services are streamlined, including past sermons, and can be easily accessed via our Youtube Channel: http://www.youtube.com/@universityumcirvine3988

  • Children are always welcome to worship with their families at our services. However, we have special arrangements for those with shorter attention spans:
  • Infants (0-2 years old): Professional childcare providers are available to care for our youngest attendees.
  • Preschool to 6th Grade: Children are invited to join Kid Jam in the Education Building, where they can enjoy a fun and interactive service designed just for them!
  • Youth (Grades 6-12): Glow is a welcoming space for all youth to grow and belong. They gather every Sunday at 9:30am in the Youth Room for a lesson, an activity, and sometimes even a party!

You can reach us by calling 949-786-8354 or emailing admin@uumcirvine.org. Our office hours are Monday through Thursday, 8 am to 2 pm.

Via Email: You can send your prayer request via admin@uumcirvine.org. This method is convenient and ensures your request is received promptly

  • Give at Church
      • Donate during our Sunday worship services or bring your gift to our Church Offices between 8 AM and 2 PM, Monday through Thursday.
  • Mail a Check
      • You can mail your donation to: University United Methodist Church 18422 Culver Drive, Irvine, CA, 92612
  • Give Online
      • Online giving is safe and easy. Click the link on our Giving Page to make a one-time donation or set up a recurring gift. Follow the instructions provided.
  • Give via Text Message
    • Instantly donate any amount using your cell phone. Simply text the amount along with your credit or debit card information to (949) 786-XXXX.

Questions?

Contact Us

For more information please contact the Church Office.

Request More Information