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

Awakening

As we begin this month’s theme of “Awakening Curiosity”, we take this Sunday to honor Vesak and the Buddha’s quest to understand suffering in the world. How might the Buddha’s journey help us to become more curious and wiser?

Join our Livestream!

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

Forum: Strategic Planning

A Mother’s Love

This Sunday we honor all those who are or have been mothers.  How might the experience of motherhood help us all awaken our curiosity for the world and one another?

Join our Livestream!

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

Forum: What is up with Dare to Dream?

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!

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.

Church Calendar

  • Griffin Hall Construction

    March 23, 2026 - May 1, 2026  

    (not usable during carpet installation beginning April 17th?)

    See more details

  • Private Reservation

    May 1, 2026  10:00 am - 3:00 pm
    Kitchen

    SJ

    See more details

  • Friday Night Out!

    May 1, 2026  5:00 pm - 8:00 pm
    Griffin

    Celebrate May Day at Kids Night Out! 🌸

    Enjoy a well-deserved evening out while your kids have a blast! Drop them off at 5:00 PM for a fun-filled night of dinner, games, crafts, and more. Spots are limited—be sure to RSVP today!

    See more details

  • Transforming Conflict Book Group

    May 2, 2026  9:00 am - 11:00 am
    Stonewall Conference Room

    See more details

  • CUUPS Maypole Celebration

    May 2, 2026  2:00 pm - 4:00 pm
    Meditation Meadow

    Celebrate the joy of spring in a lively, colorful tradition called the Maypole Celebration in the Meditation Meadow at First Unitarian.

    As the woodland comes alive again, join us in honoring Beltane with the ancient and festive ritual of the Maypole! Gather at the Labyrinth/Meditation Meadow to dance, prance, and weave bright ribbons in this joyful circle dance celebrating the season of renewal.

    This family-friendly event is open to the public—children are welcome and must be accompanied by an adult. Bring a lawn chair or mat and settle in for an afternoon of movement, community, and connection.

    You’ll also have a chance to learn more about the revival of the CUUPS chapter at First Unitarian Church of Des Moines, including upcoming events and classes.

    For more information, email CUUPS@ucdsm.org. Come celebrate spring with us!

    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.