Hello!

Welcome to the First Unitarian Church of Des Moines! We’re glad you’ve found us and hope you find a church home with us.

At First Unitarian, we’re brave, curious, and compassionate thinkers and doers. We’re people of many beliefs and backgrounds – people with a religious background and people with none; people who believe in a God and people who don’t, and people who simply let the mystery be. And while we represent a diversity of faith, ethnicity, history and spirituality, we agree that we want to do good work in the world.

So we welcome you – your whole self, with all your truths and your doubts, your worries and your hopes. Let us support you on your faith journey.

Learn More

 

Did you know that First Unitarian holds our Longest Night Service in December for those who find the holiday season difficult? This reflective, quiet service creates a safe space to acknowledge grief, sadness, and hardship during a time when many other celebrations emphasize joy and togetherness. Elements include candlelight, silent reflection, readings, and music, providing comfort and community for those who are mourning or suffering.

This year’s Longest Night Service will take place on Friday, December 19 at 6 p.m. in the Auditorium with a soup supper to follow at 6:45 p.m.

Upcoming Service

Longest Night Service

Did you know that First Unitarian holds our Longest Night Service in December for those who find the holiday season difficult? This reflective, quiet service creates a safe space to acknowledge grief, sadness, and hardship during a time when many other celebrations emphasize joy and togetherness. Elements include candlelight, silent reflection, readings, and music, providing comfort and community for those who are mourning or suffering.
This year’s Longest Night Service will take place on Friday, December 19 at 6 p.m. in the Auditorium with a soup supper to follow at 6:45 p.m.

Join our Livestream!

Click here for the Order of Service (updates every Friday afternoon)

The Sun Also Rises: The Power of Active Hope

Hope – and despair – are ‘contagious’.  We usually feel more or less hopeful depending on how those around us feel.  Join us this Winter Solstice Sunday to claim the power of Active Hope together, to celebrate that even in the darkest time of the year, the sun still shines.

Join our Livestream!

Click here for the Order of Service (updates every Friday afternoon)

Forum: Know Your Rights Training

Upcoming Services Previous Services

Church Calendar

  • Women's Wednesdays

    December 17, 2025  12:30 pm - 3:00 pm
    Urbandale Public Library, 3520 86th St, Urbandale, IA 50322, USA

     
    Chosen by Women, About Women, Discussed by Women 

    RSVP's sent to wednesdaywomen@ucdsm.org

    See more details

  • Caring Community Team

    December 17, 2025  4:45 pm - 6:15 pm
    Minister's Office

    See more details

  • Bell Choir Rehearsal

    December 17, 2025  5:45 pm - 6:45 pm
    Auditorium

    Contact: Karen Kraemer choir@ucdsm.org

    See more details

View Calendar

I’m New Here

Ready to explore Unitarian Universalism and our church? We’re ready for you!

  1. Start by joining us for our Sunday service at 9:30 a.m. CT in-person or via livestream. You can also click here for directions to our building!
  2. In the front lobby of our church, you’ll be welcomed by a Congregational Life Team member, who will direct you to visitor information and UU information.
  3. Join us after the service for coffee hour! Enjoy a generous spread of delicious food and take the opportunity to connect, mingle, and meet new people in a welcoming atmosphere.
  4. Check out our Affinity Groups for adults. We also have programs for children, youth, and adults.
  5. And finally, explore our website! There’s a lot to see and we encourage you to reach out to the contact people listed throughout the site if you have questions or want to get involved.