Venturing out to a new church for the first time can be a challenge. Will I be welcome there? Will I be comfortable?

With this "visitor's kit" we have tried to identify and answer most of the questions that first time visitors might have. If this doesn't answer all your questions, please call our church office at 206 524-2322. We are eager to welcome you and make your first visit with us a rewarding one!

 Where is University Congregational United Church of Christ?Our church is located in Seattle's University District, near the University of Washington Campus. Our address is 4515 16th Ave. NE. Specifically, our front door is located on 16th Ave. NE, near the corner of NE 45th Street and 15th Ave. NE.
Click here for a printable map which shows how to find us.

What time are the services?

Sunday mornings include Christian Education (Sunday school) for all ages (except in June, July and August), and an intergenerational worship service. Christian Education begins at 9 a.m. Worship begins at 10 a.m. Child care and programs for kindergarteners and preschoolers are available year round (see below).

How long do services last?

Services vary in length from just over an hour to an hour and 20 minutes, depending on whether communion is served and whether there are special events during the service such as baptisms or special music.

What time should I plan to arrive?

If you are joining us for the education hour, plan to arrive at 9 a.m. There will be an easel in the church lobby telling you what is being offered that day and where the classes are. If you are coming later to attend worship only, plan to arrive about 
9:45 a.m. in order to have time to find a seat and get settled.

Where should I park?

There are two main UCC church parking lots--one to the east of the church which is accessed from 16th Ave. NE and one to the west of the church which is accessed from 15th Ave. NE. We encourage those with small children, or those who need to move more slowly to park in these lots. Find more details here.

If you come at 9 a.m. for Christian Education, you will most likely be able to find space in the church lots. There is also plentiful parking directly across 45th Street near the Burke Museum. To get to this parking, enter the University of Washington campus through the main entrance at 17th Ave. NE and N.E. 45th St., and turn right after you pass the gatehouse. Parking here is free on Sundays.

If you are planning to arrive later (e.g. after 9:30 a.m.), you may find parking more challenging. There are several churches in the area and it can get busy. If you are unable to find a place in the church lots right near the building, try parking on campus near the Burke Museum. Or, turn left after the gate house, instead of right and park in the free campus lots just east of N.E. 45th St. The walk from here is a little further (about 3 blocks), so you'll want to allow a bit more time.

Download our printer-friendly map to learn more abut where to park.

What about Sunday school for my children?

We are a family-friendly church and we welcome families with children of all ages. The Christian education program begins at 9 a.m. Worship begins at 10 a.m. Ask one of our volunteer greeters in the church narthex (lobby) to help you locate the right program for your children. Learn more about our .

What should I wear to church?

Dress comfortably and casually. We care about who you are on the inside, not what you are wearing. Feel free to wear your jeans and T-shirt, or wear whatever you feel most comfortable in for church.

Any other questions?

If we haven't answered all your questions here, please call the church office at
(206) 524-2322. Office hours are 9 a.m.- 4 p.m.on weekdays, and the office is also open on Sunday mornings. Or e-mail us with your questions: office@universityucc.org