People who come to our church are often surprised by the outpouring of love and welcome that they receive. Everyone who walks through the doors receives a genuinely warm greeting. Not just visitors… Everyone! Our church greets each other with that same welcome. It’s real! At Ankeny UCC, there’s a sense of joyful anticipation whenever we get together. That’s part of what makes us… us! Visitors have said, “You can feel there’s something alive and different about this church.” Yep. Come see for yourself.

We are a biblical church – which means we take the bible too seriously to take it literally! We tend to be progressive on social issues and open-minded about everyone’s story. It seems to us like that’s who Jesus was and what Jesus taught, so we follow that example. We also believe Jesus provides us with a unique and necessary understanding of who God is, and who we are in our relationship with God. We believe God’s truths for us are relevant, inspiring, and even humorous, and always challenging us to grow in grace.

Worship is a blend of traditional and contemporary styles. Ours is a very participatory church! Our members and visitors share their joys and concerns during the service if they choose, and experience the faithful prayers of the people who believe God cares about us. Our chancel choir sings each Sunday during the year (with summers off) and we have incredible cantors who lead us in our music during worship.

Children are not just the future of the church, but are valued leaders of our present as well! All children are invited to participate in worship with their families, but there is a coloring and crafts table in the sanctuary for those kids who want to stay occupied during worship. We don’t mind the noise from our children (it is a sign of life in the church!) but if you wish, there is a staffed nursery available each Sunday as well.

At our church, we celebrate communion on the first Sunday of the month, and everyone is invited to participate. Everyone. No matter your age or church affiliation, we believe that Jesus invited everyone to the table, with no exceptions. Since Jesus invited everyone, so should we! Come to the table with your doubts, your convictions, and everything in between. We invite people to come forward to receive communion, and offer the option of juice or wine, and gluten free bread is available.