West Side Church
All are welcome - no asterisk*
West Side is a church that provides a variety of spiritual growth opportunities and experiences. We recognize that there is no “one size fits all,” when it comes to how people live out their spiritual journeys.
While many enjoy meeting God through songs, prayers and messages during Sunday morning worship; others find just as much meaning and joy in serving together at the Alpha House or with Habitat for Humanity. While still yet others find the peace of God in tending to our lovely memorial garden in our front yard.
This open-minded approach to the many diverse pathways of spiritual growth is not a new idea. In fact for centuries, United Methodists have forged their spiritual journey via a balanced diet of Scripture, Experience, Reason & Tradition. These four avenues make up what we call the “quadrilateral,” which teaches us to ask the following questions:
• What is Revealed in Scripture?
• How does Tradition illuminate the path ahead?
• How does our Experience inform us?
• What can be confirmed by Reason?
So at West Side you will discover a multi-generational church of both thinkers and doers, of musicians and accountants, of students and those enjoying retirement, of scientists and handymen-philosophers (and throw in some football fans for good measure!). We take a progressive approach to living out our faith and thrive in serving our community and world. We practice collaborative and empowering leadership, with the hope of equipping humble and genuine followers of Christ with the holy love and courage needed to be lights in this day and age.
This is a safe place to ask questions. This is a sanctuary to find acceptance and community. This is a group of people on a quest to be real and totally imperfect in our attempts at being Jesus’ followers. And with the help of the children in our midst, we can learn again to laugh at ourselves, and to grieve as needed as well. For if we can be known for anything, let us be known for compassion and mercy - for ourselves and for each other. And then - maybe just in little bits at a time - we will become the change we are looking for.
Come along with us and engage in your spiritual journey at West Side. It’s completely fine to be anonymous and find your own space. Or to dive in the deep-end and get as involved as you please. All are welcome.
Stand at the crossroads and look. Ask about the ancient paths. Ask where the good road is. Walk in it, and you will find rest for your souls. Jeremiah 6:16
VISIT US
WATCH OUR SERMONS HERE
Current & Upcoming Events
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YouTube Sermons
We’re on YouTube! Check out our channel for live services or to revisit any you may have missed.
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Wednesday Small Group
The Wednesday Book & Bible Study is reading Slightly Bad Girls of the Bible by Liz Curtis Higgs. More information in the Dispatch.
Wednesdays 10:30 - Noon at the fireplace in the Welcome Center.
July Community Offering
Baldwin United Methodist Church’s Ministry to Detainees at North Lake Processing Center
The July Community Offering will support the Baldwin United Methodist Church's ministry to detainees at the ICE North Lake Processing Center in Baldwin, MI. This facility which houses approximately 1500 persons - the largest detention center in the Midwest - is located only two miles from their church. As both a congregation and as part of a larger group called Hope for Neighbors, they provide funds for detainees' needs - such as clothing, phone calls expenses, and lawyer fees as well as visits with people held in the Center. The church also maintains a storage unit on its property from which it distributes clothes, backpacks and other items to people when they are released. West Side can assist financially this small congregation which has made a major commitment to helping others in need.

