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

Curious Voices: A Youth-Led Awakening

As we explore our May theme, Awakening Curiosity, our youth take the lead in imagining a more fully inclusive, multigenerational church. Through their reflections, they’ll share what helps them feel truly seen and valued—and what could help us grow. Come ready to listen, learn, and be inspired by their vision.

Join our Livestream!

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

No Forum. Join us for the Lower-Level Ribbon Cutting Ceremony after the Service!

Gathered in Remembrance: Held in Hope

Memorial Day is a complicated holiday for many of us. How do we honor those who serve without glorifying war? How do we build a peaceful future for our children? This morning we will hear perspectives on military service and war from a variety of UU voices.

Join our Livestream!

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

No Forum

Flower Communion

This Sunday we honor the 103rd annual ritual first designed by Unitarian minister Norbert Capek.  How might this beloved tradition help us become more curious citizens in an interdependent world?

Join our Livestream!

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

Forum: Annual Meeting Packet Review by Board

At the annual meeting on June 7, the annual packet contains decisions the board is recommending. Come hear what the board is thinking and share your thoughts.

Upcoming Services Previous Services

Church Calendar

  • Leader's Gathering

    May 16, 2026  8:30 am - 11:00 am
    Griffin Hall and Kitchen

    See more details

  • Soul Matters

    May 16, 2026  10:00 am - 12:00 pm
    Minister's Office

     Facilitated by Hilary Hippen

    See more details

  • Youth Service Rehearsal

    May 16, 2026  1:00 pm - 3:00 pm
    Auditorium

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  • (Set-Up/ Take-Down) Progressive Voices Concert - Rupert Wates

    May 16, 2026  4:30 pm - 10:00 pm
    Auditorium, Gathering Area, Griffin Hall, Kitchen, and Room 105

    See more details

  • Progressive Voices Concert - Rupert Wates

    May 16, 2026  7:30 pm - 9:00 pm
    Auditorium, Gathering Area, Griffin Hall, Kitchen, and Room 105

    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.