For worship information, including dedications and Sunday School times, click the button below. | |
About Rev. Dr. Darryl E. Totty
The Rev. Dr. Darryl E. Totty currently serves as District Superintendent of the Greater Detroit District of The United Methodist Church. With over three decades of ministry experience, Dr. Totty brings a passion for transformational leadership and deep compassion for God’s people. Prior to his appointment, he led the recently merged congregation of St. Timothy and Second Grace United Methodist Church in Detroit, and has also served at Christ UMC, Jefferson Avenue UMC, and Conant Avenue UMC.
Dr. Totty entered ministry in 1988 after working as a senior marketing manager in Scottsdale, Arizona. A former athlete and seasoned business leader, he knows firsthand the power of leadership under pressure. His call to ministry came through an unexpected but Spirit-led moment during his corporate career—a moment that sparked a journey of faith, service, and calling.
He earned his Master of Divinity from Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary (Evanston, IL) and a Doctor of Divinity from the Graduate Theological Foundation (Oxford, England), where his doctoral work focused on mission strategy in urban communities. A committed advocate for cross-cultural ministry, he served as chair of the Michigan Conference Leadership Council, president of the United Methodist Black Clergy of Michigan, and as a member of numerous committees devoted to justice and equity in the church.
Dr. Totty’s passion lies in the field of missions. He has had the privilege of leading several teams in South Africa and Haiti—experiences that have deeply shaped his life and strengthened his commitment to serving others. A devoted husband to Anita and a proud father and grandfather, his ministry is also informed by his formative years at United Methodist camp and by his clinical pastoral education at Sinai Grace Hospital, where he walked alongside those facing poverty, trauma, and violence. Whether in the pulpit or in the community, Dr. Totty leads with heart, conviction, and a strong belief that the church must be relevant, inclusive, and deeply connected to the world it serves.
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Giving Opportunities
If you’re interested in learning more about life-time gifts and legacy giving such as strategies used for operating budget donations (ministry plan); endowment fund contributions, or donations directed to a designated ministry of your choice, please reach out to Karen Murphy for more information. Karen is our new Development Officer and can be reached directly at (248) 646-1200 ext. 3155, or email at kmurphy@fumcbirmingham.org. She would be happy to set a time to meet together to discuss further."
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Help Us Support Brightmoor Kids This Fall!
For the past six years, the Birmingham & Berkley First 45 Christians group (our 4th, 5th, and 6th graders) has provided Redford Brightmoor Initiative with fully stocked backpacks for the new school year. This year, we're inviting the entire church community to help us by donating two essential items: pencils and markers.
All supplies are needed by August 1, and your support will make a real difference for students in Brightmoor. Thank you for being part of this meaningful mission!
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We are looking ahead to an exciting fall at Birmingham First! Mark your calendars and plan to join in for a season full of celebration, service, and connection. From Welcome Back Sunday on September 7 to the Missions Fair on October 19—and everything in between—there’s something meaningful for everyone this fall.
September 7: Welcome Back Sunday
September 14: The Good You Do Sunday & BBQ
September 21: Hands on Mission Sunday
September 28: Choir Dedication Sunday
September 28: Discover First
October 5-10: Fall Rummage Sale Week
October 19: Missions Fair
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Summer Playdates for Families at Birmingham First
Let’s get together for some summer fun! Families with children from birth through elementary school are invited to two joyful playdates hosted by Children & Family Ministries and the Moms of Young Children group. These casual, come-as-you-are gatherings are a wonderful way to meet other parents while the kids play, laugh, and make new friends.
Tuesday, August 5 | 9:30–11:30 a.m. — Popsicles & Play
Tuesday, August 26 | 6:00-7:30 p.m. — S'mores & More
Come to one or both—whatever fits your schedule. We’d love to see you there! RSVP with the sign up button below.
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HANDS ON MISSION: August 16, 9 a.m.-1 p.m.: Micah 6 Community Garden
Work in the Community Garden at Micah 6, 32 Newberry Street, Pontiac. Bring your own water and gardening gloves; come for the full time or help for whatever amount of time you are able. Dress ready for the weather to work outside in the community garden. Carpool will leave at 8:30 a.m. from the front of Berkley First church OR meet at Micah 6. Children are always welcome if accompanied by an adult! Gather and be the hands and feet of Christ to lend assistance wherever it may be needed. See you at 32 Newberry Street in Pontiac! Questions? Reach out to Patty Reynolds 248-376-2475, or Leah Blinstrub 517-505-4902.
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Volunteer for the Fall Rummage Sale
The UWIF Fall Rummage Sale for Missions is coming up October 5–10, and we need YOU to help make it a success! This community favorite raises vital funds for charities and missions—but it can’t happen without volunteers. Be part of the fun and purpose by signing up for one of these much-needed roles: Cashiers, Pricers, Door Guards, Set-Up, and Tear-Down. For more details and to sign up, visit: www.fumcbirmingham.org/umw-rummage-sale.
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Join the Birmingham First Tech Team!
Are you interested in learning how livestreaming works and helping bring worship and special events to our online community? We’re looking for volunteers to join the Birmingham First Tech Team! Open to anyone middle school aged and older, this is a great opportunity to develop new skills and serve the church in a meaningful way. No experience necessary—training will be provided. If you're interested or would like to learn more, email Michelle Jansen at mjansen@berkleyfirst.org.
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Sunday Greeting is for Everyone!
Help us extend a warm welcome this fall by serving as a Sunday Greeter or Coffee Host. It’s a simple way to share hospitality and brighten someone’s morning! Sign up by clicking the button below, at the Kiosk in Fellowship Hall on Sundays, or contact Melissa Ng at mjoyng@comcast.net.
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Volunteer spots are open through the month of August
Every Sunday through the end of September, a produce table will be set up in Fellowship Hall. Church members may drop off extra flowers and or vegetables for others to purchase. All proceeds will go to the Hunger Ministry.
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Student Ministries Coordinator (Part-time)
Birmingham First is seeking a part-time Student Ministries Coordinator to support our Middle School and High School programs. This 20-hour-per-week position focuses on building meaningful relationships, planning weekly gatherings and events, and fostering a Christ-centered community for youth. The ideal candidate is passionate about student faith development, works well with volunteers, and communicates effectively with families and staff.
For the full job description, click the button below. Please submit your resume with cover letter to: humanresources@fumcbirmingham.org.
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Finance Director (Full-time)
Birmingham and Berkley First is seeking a full-time Finance Director to lead financial strategy, manage day-to-day accounting operations, and support the stewardship of church resources across both campuses. This position plays a key role in budgeting, forecasting, and financial reporting while ensuring compliance and supporting ministry leaders. The ideal candidate will have strong analytical skills, experience in nonprofit or church finance, and a heart for ministry.
For the full job description, click the button below. Please submit your resume with cover letter to: humanresources@fumcbirmingham.org.
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Assistant Teacher for 2-Year-Old Classrooms (Part-time)
Do you love working with young children and creating a nurturing, play-based learning environment? Birmingham First is seeking a part-time Assistant Teacher to support our 2-year-old classrooms. In this role, you’ll work alongside a Lead Teacher to guide developmentally appropriate, faith-based activities, help with daily routines, and ensure a warm, safe space for our littlest learners. If you’re compassionate, patient, and eager to make a difference in early childhood education, we’d love to hear from you!
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Clergy On Call
For after hours pastoral emergencies, call 248-408-0038.
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Memorial Day to Labor Day
Sunday: 9:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
Monday thru Thursday: 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Friday: By Appointment
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