church building

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

  • YouTube Sermons

    Missed a service or want to revisit a sermon? Our sermons are now available on YouTube!

  • West Side Reads

    Get ready for September, West Side Readers... We will be reading Original Sins: the (Mis)education of Black and Native Children and the Construction of American Racism by Eve L. Ewing.

  • Small Group - Inspired by Rachel Held Evans

    Join us Wednesdays at 10:30am!

August Community Offering

Grace Outside

Grace Outside, as a camp and retreat ministry, grew from the rich history of the United Methodist Church and embraces the concept of grace as the unearned love of God. Whether you grew up in a church or have never attended a religious, service, Grace Outside offers a welcoming space where you can explore and grow in faith without judgement.

Grace Outside camp and retreat programs celebrate the uniqueness of all persons as part of God’s creation and a gift to be enjoyed! According to God’s grace, Grace Outside welcomes everyone regardless of race, color, gender identity, religion, ethnicity, sexual orientation, social or economic class, and nationality. They intentionally create an environment of safety, hospitality, and mutual respect where everyone may thrive and experience joy. Grace Outside creates love inside!

Grace Outside consists of three camps in Michigan: Wesley Woods Camps and Retreat Center in Dowling, Lake Michigan Campground in Pentwater, and Lake Huron Retreat Center in Burtchville.

For more information, please visit their website: GraceOutside.org

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