Bible Survey is a close-knit in-person class with Zoom available for those with physical limitations or Immuno-compromised. Studies include interactive quarterly curriculum and biblical topics with nurturing moments for prayer requests and discussing life experiences.

Challengers are constantly challenging ourselves to live our faith according to the example and words of Jesus. Members represent a variety of ages, life experience and viewpoints. We are committed to study, pray and fellowship as a group with Jesus as our core. We encourage and support one another to service our congregation and community. Volunteer class members as well as guest speakers lead each week. Average attendance is 25-30.

Christian Living defines our mission, which is to live our faith daily. Our discussion-based studies are a balance of biblical topics to deepen our faith, and studies that explore how to put our belief into action. With studies, missions, and social as a focus, our group serves with projects such as a Christmas party for Blount County inmates and their families. Most of our members arrived in this community with little family support. We are family to each other both inside and outside the church and would love to add you to our family.

Compass Class is a Sunday School class that welcomes young adults with careers and children.

Garst is named after missionary, Dr. Ronald Garst whose passion was providing medical care to the poor in India. The Garst class was created in the mid 60’s in his honor and continues to serve local mission work such as Scouting programs, Habitat for Humanity, Welcome Table and Holston Home for Children. Studying quarterly curriculum, you will gain new insight and focus for ministry and find this small group both welcoming and caring. 

Heritage was formed in the early 1960’s and transformed over the years into a larger diverse class made up of singles and couples from all walks of life. We are a loyal, loving, and caring group who fast become friends. Lessons range from Scripture to diverse lessons and often host guest speakers, all of which are based on our Christian beliefs. Opportunities are plentiful for volunteering, prayers, and financial support of missions and local projects. Heritage offers quarterly social gatherings. Many of our current members represent the mature age bracket, but we welcome all ages.

Inspiration is a great source of encouragement and support and meets weekly to study lessons from the Bible and discuss how to apply these lessons to everyday life. We enjoy the fellowship during class as well as class socials and serving and volunteering for many of 1^st UMC’s programming such as Welcome Table, 1^st Kids, Choir, as well as in our communities. Average age of members is between 30-50 including both singles and couples.

Open Arms is a class of progressive Christians of all ages and backgrounds. Our arms are open to anyone who would like to attend! We believe in the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion, as well as the love and compassion of Christ. The class facilitator prepares slides summarizing a chapter of a book and poses questions to promote discussion. We aim to provide a safe space for sharing, being honest and vulnerable, and keeping minds open to possibilities. The United Methodist Church proclaims "Open Minds. Open Hearts. Open Doors." We aim to gain a deeper understanding of our faith and show God's love to others through Open Arms.

Sojourners is an adult coed Sunday School Class that uses the United Methodist Sunday School Curriculum for weekly studies.  With multiple facilitators, the class has variety in scope and style, creating a fun and exciting learning environment.  Discussion and participation by the whole class is encouraged and takes advantage of the knowledge, viewpoints, and perspectives of all our members. Besides studying together, we are a Life-group that regularly spends social time together, growing in relationship with Christ and supporting each other through good times and hard.  We welcome guests and new members.