About Us

The congregation of the United Church of Faith (United Methodist and Presbyterian U.S.A.) range from young families with children to the elderly. The United Church of Faith has gracefully completed twenty-four years together as a union church.

Keota is a town of approximately 900. The population gains its livelihood from the agriculture industry, although some travel to neighboring towns to work. The businesses in town provide goods and services basic to sufficiently care for everyday needs (post office, bank, hardware store, grocery, gas stations, convenience store, veterinary, bakery, and a few specialty stores). There are two manufacturing plants. In addition, there is a new aquatic center, nursing home, library, and Lagos Acres, a nine hole golf course with a club house. The community is fortunate to have its own school system. Preschool-sixth grade are housed in one wing and seventh-twelfth are located in the opposite wing. They have recently added a new playground and have gone to a four day school week.

Another appealing attribute is the location. Keota is thirty-eight miles from Iowa City, which has a cosmopolitan atmosphere, cultural events, art exhibits, diverse restaurants, and Big Ten athletics can be enjoyed year round. People travel for miles to take advantage of the excellent medical care available at two local hospitals within twenty miles as well as the University of Iowa Hospital and Clinics. The University of Iowa is a leader among the nation's institutions of higher learning.

In Keota, the building which houses the United Church of Faith is a brick building built in 1962 with a sanctuary capacity of 250 and air conditioned. On the main floor is the Pastor's office with an adjoining second office for the office manager. The sanctuary is a blend of modern architecture with installed stained glass windows salvaged from the old Methodist Church. On the first floor is a lounge which is used for meetings and an overflow area at the back of the sanctuary with a coffee bar. In the basement is a large kitchen and fellowship hall along with Sunday School rooms.

Located a block away from the church building is the parsonage, a brick ranch style home on a corner lot. It was built in 1975 and has three bedrooms, two and a half baths, a full basement, an attached garage, and central air conditioning.

The United Church of Faith offers opportunities for people of diverse ages and talents. We have Sunday School classes available. Kids Club, (in its twenty sixth year), meets on the first and third Wednesday after school for ages Kindergarten through fifth grade with many non churched children reached through this ministry. A community youth group (CYM) for grades seven through twelve meets Sunday evenings. Vacation Bible School is held each year and reaches many children.

The United Women's Fellowship is focused on mission projects and meets monthly numerous times a year. The Men's Brotherhood, which meets as needed, contributes to local missions. There are two programs which provide scholarships to college students who are church members.

Through local missions, our church assists our community by providing a food pantry and clothing closet. We implement two big projects each year. Our annual "Back to School" project provides school supplies and new and used clothing to children. At Christmas, members of the congregation purchase gifts for children and food for families in need. Our efforts are enhanced by working with Holy Trinity Catholic Church in our local mission projects.

The governing body of our church is the Administrative Session Board. Comprised of six members and the pastor, it meets once a month. Open to sharing and spiritual growth, the members elected to this board oversee the life of the congregation. As we continue to thrive as a warm and open, theologically-diverse congregation, we welcome all members and visitors to our church.

Summer 2024