It’s church, but it’s also a night out.

Cowboy Church at First United Methodist Church, Pearland, adds country music, food and dancing to its worship services.

“It’s very informal,” said the Rev. Phyllis Riney, an associate pastor with First United Methodist Church, Pearland, and pastor of its Cowboy Church.

The program was established about four years ago, Riney said. “It was aimed at people uncomfortable with attending services in a traditional church setting but who would feel very comfortable with this. It’s not just another worship service.”

Cowboy Church opens with food and dancing at 5:30 p.m. Sundays in First United Methodist’s Family Life Center, 2314 North Grand Blvd.

Riney begins the worship service at 6 p.m., opening with prayer and fellowship time.

The music is either presented by a guest or by the Cowboy Church Band.

Appearing Sunday, Feb. 7, will be JC Rodeo. Mike Goff will perform Feb. 14, and the Cowboy Church Band will provide the music Feb. 21.

“We have an excellent, excellent Cowboy Church Band,” Riney said. “And we have very good artists who come in as guests. Last week we had the Alvin Opry.

Cowboy Church sees an average of 80 to 100 people each week from throughout the metropolitan area.

“We reach a group of people who are loving and caring,” Riney said.

Details: www.fumcpearland.org.