University United Methodist Church, San Antonio

This church cares about two things - money and power! All you ever hear about is the need for more money. You would be amazed how money is spent like for new carpet for the church before one of their minister's marriage takes place in the church. Then there are the power players. Watch out for these guys. The God they preach about might have a surprise for them someday

I have been a member since i was 8 years old. Our church has the most awesome decorated hallways for the children, for example, Noah's ark. We have J-Quest for 3rd graders which involves theater, cooking, computer skills, science, etc. This helps children with many different skills to learn, but they are still taught about Jesus while they are there .The youth has a game room, so they can have fun in a safe environment and bring friends. We have an activity called U-Sk8 for people who love skate boarding. We have the ramps and all in the new building. Of course, it wouldn't be the same without the youth retreats. We also have a Special Needs ministry for children to go to school that is really great! Volunteering to help serve the church and all people outside the church is also very important to our church. We have all kinds of missions for all ages...JR high kids can go to Corpus Christi and help paint homes for the poor. SR high kids go to Tennessee to help almost renovate homes for the poor in Memphis, and of course, our church (anybody of appropriate age) can help with Habitat for Humanity. Our church has sponsored many of thos homes. We assist with Samministries, Haven for Hope, and we also do things for inmates and their families. We also have mission trips to help all over the world; for example, my 18 year old brother just went to Guatamala for a mission trip. I couldn't begin to list all of our groups to help other people. My husband and I were married in the beautiful sanctuary almost 9 years ago. They continue to have very beautiful, traditional services with a choir, organ, orchestra, and handbells for different occasions. My family attends the contemporary service at 11am (the new building). Pastor Ryan speaks frankly, but is dedicated to bringing us closer to Christ. He is honest with us about himself, about being Christians, and about the church as a whole. He is funny, and loves God most of all! He even encourages parents to bring their children if they want. We bring our 4 year old, who can even sing the songs, which brings me to mentioning that we have an awesome band that plays beautiful music for God. If you have ever listened to KLOVE (Christian radio station), you have heard some of the songs we sing. I feel the Holy Spirit in this service every time! We have great Bible studies and different groups for all ages, genders (women only, men only, or mixed), and where ever you may be on your path in life or with Christ! I am in 2 Bible studies: women only group studying "Breaking Free" by Beth Moore and 1st Place for Health which teaches you to be Christ centered in all areas of your life (spiritually, physically, emotionally, and mentally). I know this church is huge, but it truly has something for everyone! I hope you will come visit us soon. You may try both services (traditional and contemporary) if you like to see which you prefer. We would love to have you! Come let us share your walk with Christ with you! That is what friends and brothers and sisters are for! To love on each other and to help each other be Christ centered people. Come visit, learn about all the groups and activities you can enjoy, and join the family!

I went here for years with my family, and it was always an alright place. A few years ago, one of the pastors tried to disband the Singles group, which was huge for my mom (having been recently divorced). Later, another pastor stood her up for a counseling session. For me, the place is just to huge. The youth program was a gigantic clique - I have never heard so much talk about sex from kids as I did when I attended their youth retreat! And that was in seventh grade! I really hated going there after a while.

Although UUMC, now known as "the U", is large, there is indeed something for everyone. Get to know people by joining small groups. Attend a wide selection of Bible Studies. Serve in countless ways. The church was founded with a vision of "a place for youth" and that is still a focus. In fact, we are just completing a new facility which is youth oriented. The person who expressed the "sour grapes" opinions below obviously didn't try very hard to fit in.

The church has a $500,000 monthly budget. But many of their projects are poorly organized and lack planning. Run by cliques- if you are not in the "in" group- don't bother volunteering for anything- you will be ignored. After 8 years of trying to get involved as members of this church, we finally got the hint and moved on. A great place for people with kids, or so they say. If you don't have kids ( and money!!!)- don't bother showing up. Too bad- it was a beautiful church before they deformed it with the new construction.

A complete tour of your facility by Nancy Andres was one of the highlights of our trip to San Antonio. If we were residents any where in the area, this would be our home church. Should we return to San Antonio again, we will definately visit you again. It was our privilage to assist during the visit to our area by the Hudson Family during thier time of sorrow. Ken & Shirley Deal

I've been going to this church since birth and I love it! I'm a youth, so I see the workings and the love of the youth department. There are awesome people and programs. Nowhere cancompare!

Do not let the large building and parking scare you off. This church has great programs for kids, youth, adults, seniors, and special needs folks of all ages. Get in a small group, get involved, and you will feel at home. Friendly folks and great tacos before church in the 'taco room'. Two services - one is formal/traditional at 8:15, 9:30 and 11 in the sanctuary. The other more casual/praise worship is at 9:30 or 11 in the old gym.

One of the largest churches in town.Friendly members and a wonderful orchestra. Gorgeous stained glass windows. A lot of activities; something for everyone. Arrive 15 min. early to get a good parking spot. Add'l parking across the street.