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.

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Upcoming Service

All Things in Time

At First Unitarian we’re in a season of big changes: to faith formation, service schedules, architecture, and more! How do we hold a sense of peace and community when everything is in flux? Join us this Sunday for a service of grounding and visioning.

Join us live on YouTube

 

Click here for the Order of Service

Forum: Aging in Place

Join us for a Forum with Crystal Doig from Aging Resources. Learn about home safety and modifications, getting help at home, and local resources including transportation, homemaker services, personal care, respite care, and more for aging people and their families.

Where Does a Humanist Turn?

As a long-time agnostic secular, Paul Derrick, a member of the Humanist Society, doesn’t rely on any God or gods to watch over and comfort him, to hear and answer prayers or to intervene in human affairs. So, where does he turn for strength, comfort, solace, support and consolation?

Join us live on YouTube

 

Click here for the Order of Service

 

Upcoming Services Previous Services

Church Calendar

  • Set-Up

    August 21, 2026  11:00 am - 12:00 pm
    Griffin Hall and Kitchen

    See more details

  • Crossroads- Interfaith Alliance of Iowa

    August 21, 2026  12:00 pm - 1:00 pm
    Griffin Hall and Kitchen

    See more details

  • Clean Up

    August 21, 2026  1:00 pm - 1:30 pm
    Griffin Hall and Kitchen

    See more details

  • UU Explorers

    August 23, 2026  9:15 am - 10:45 am
    Woods (213)

    This class is recommended for children ages 7-10 or children who are ready to explore simple abstract concepts through artistic and constructive play. Activities in this class will require the ability to follow simple directions.

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  • UU Friendship

    August 23, 2026  9:15 am - 10:45 am
    Acorn Room (211)

    This class is recommended for children ages 4-7 or children who need additional support for learning or behavior. The goals of the class include developing the skills needed to participate in Faith Formation classes, establishing caring and trusting relationships, and becoming familiar with the church building, staff, and leadership.

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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.