Rev. Gary Haller returns to the pulpit on Sunday, June 1 to explore one of Jesus’ most thought-provoking teachings: how we often judge others while overlooking our own faults. Reflecting on what it truly means for Jesus to be “the Way,” Pastor Gary will focus on the powerful image of removing the plank from our own eye before pointing out the speck in someone else’s. | | |
Gift Planning 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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Dr. Ritter's Book Release Event
“I Know My Way Home is a beautifully written, deeply meaningful book filled with wisdom and inspiration. It’s the kind of book I did not want to put down. Savor it.” -Adam Hamilton, Pastor and author of, Wrestling with Doubt, Finding Faith
We’re excited to announce the release of I Know My Way Home by Rev. Dr. Bill Ritter, Pastor Emeritus of Birmingham First. Join us on Sunday, June 15, after worship in Fellowship Hall for a special book signing event with Dr. Ritter. Books are $15, with all proceeds supporting the church.
If you’re unable to attend the event, copies will be available after June 15, for purchase in the Circuit Rider Book Store.
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Hands On Mission: VBS Decorating Days
This June’s Hands On Mission invites you to help set the scene for an unforgettable adventure! Join us June 17–19 from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. as we transform the church into The True North for Vacation Bible School. Whether you come one day or all three, your help will create a welcoming, imaginative space for both our Birmingham and Berkley First kids and many children from the community.
| | The United Women in Faith will hold their annual Unit Meeting on Wednesday, June 11 at 7:00 p.m. in Thomas Parlor. We will elect the officers and approve the budget for the 2025-2026 year. We’ll enjoy a video trip through the amazing Rummage Sales and programs from the past year. All are welcome to attend. Members of the UWIF will have voting privileges. | | Join us for an unforgettable week of faith, fun, and forest adventures at Vacation Bible School, June 23–27 from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.! With over 250 kids expected, we need a full team of adults and teens to help guide our young explorers on a journey to discover their True North—Jesus! Set in a whimsical forest filled with songs, stories, games, and surprises, this epic week is all about growing in faith and making meaningful connections. Whether you can join us for all five days or just a few, we’ll find a role that fits your schedule. Come be a part of the adventure—we can’t do it without you! | | Howdy, tiny trail riders! Mosey on down to “Wesley Rides Again” Choir Camp Jr. from July 15, 16, & 17, where our pint-sized pioneers, rising K-3rd graders, will embark on a three-day adventure quicker than a jackrabbit on a hot griddle! | | Yeehaw! Hey rising 4th-12th graders, get ready to rustle up some fun at our “Wesley Rides Again” Choir Camp from July 27 to August 2. | |
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Food is a basic need, but when the storms of life hit—whether it’s recovering from surgery, grieving the loss of a loved one, or navigating other challenging circumstances—preparing a meal can feel overwhelming. Birmingham and Berkley First seek to care for our congregation members during these times through our Meal Ministry.
Whether you’re a master chef or simply skilled at selecting a thoughtful prepared meal, your willingness to serve is what matters most. Volunteers use an easy online scheduling tool that provides important details about recipients, including dietary needs and delivery instructions.
If you’d like to volunteer, or if you know someone who could benefit from meal support, please contact Mary Feldmaier at mfeldmaier@fumcbirmingham.org or 248-342-1929.
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Every Sunday, starting June 15 and going 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. A sign up will be sent out next week for those interested in volunteering to work the table on Sundays.
| Rising 4th and 5th graders are invited to join us for 45C—our Summer Mission Camp! Each morning is filled with hands-on, age-appropriate mission work, followed by afternoons of fun and cultural adventures. It’s a week of serving, learning, and making memories! | |
Help Lead Summer Sunday School!
We’re looking for caring and enthusiastic volunteers to help with Summer Sunday School during the 10:00 a.m. worship service! Each week, children from PreK through 5th grade will gather for a Sunday School experience filled with Bible stories, crafts, games, and more! We need adults and teens to help lead—no teaching experience needed, just a heart for kids and faith. Whether you can serve one Sunday or several, your presence makes a big difference!
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Share God’s Love in the Nursery
We’re looking for nurturing adults and teens to help care for our youngest church members during the 10:00 a.m. worship service this summer. Volunteers in the nursery provide a safe, welcoming space where babies and toddlers can play, rest, and feel God’s love through gentle care and attention. Whether you enjoy holding little ones, reading stories, or simply being a calming presence, we’d love to have you on the team. Serve one Sunday or more—every helping hand makes a difference!
| Book your own site at Portage Lake Campground at Waterloo Recreation Area from July 24-27 to stay for the weekend, or daytrip it on July 27 to join us for outdoor worship and a picnic lunch. | | Cub Scouts Pack 1032 (grades K–5) and Scouts BSA Troop 1032 (ages 11–17) offer fun, hands-on experiences that help kids grow in character, leadership, and confidence—all while making memories that last a lifetime. From outdoor adventures to learning new skills, there’s something for everyone. Both groups meet weekly at Birmingham First and welcome new members. For meeting times, contact info, and more, click the button below. | | |
Sabbatical Announcement for Pastor Sarah Alexander
The Staff Parish Relations Committee shares that Pastor Sarah Alexander will be taking a sabbatical (renewal leave) this summer from June 8 to August 17. After six years of dedicated service, Sarah is due for a well-deserved time of rest and renewal. She remains excited for many more years at Birmingham and Berkley First.
Her sabbatical will include several enriching experiences. She plans to finish the Practical Church Leadership Certificate through Dakota Wesleyan University and begin the second year of her MBA program. She also looks forward to planting a garden, helping with landscaping at Arlington Parsonage, enjoying a Michigan vacation with family, and spending time hiking, reading, writing, praying, and resting at her family's cottage.
While she is away, Chris Schulte and Dr. Boayue will support congregational care. Adrienne Trupiano will team up with Gloria Fulton in the CLC, Mary Feldmaier will continue coordinating Discover First classes, and Pastor Zack Dunlap will supervise our ministerial intern.
Pastor Sarah plans to return to the office on August 17 and preach again on August 31 in the Birmingham First Sanctuary.
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Worship & Music Administrative Assistant (Part-time)
Be the essential force that transforms our vibrant Music Ministry from vision to reality. As Birmingham First UMC’s Worship and Music Administrative Assistant, you will skillfully handle detailed administrative tasks—coordinating choir schedules, managing the music library, preparing worship materials, and supporting special events—while also anticipating needs and proactively solving problems. By developing an intuitive understanding of our ministry’s rhythms, you will create systems that enable our ministry to thrive. Your behind-the-scenes excellence will directly facilitate meaningful worship experiences for hundreds each week. If you find fulfillment in both administrative precision and independent initiative, this opportunity might be your calling. Contact Casey Proch, Executive Director of Worship and Music, at cproch@fumcbirmingham.org for more information about becoming part of our team. Applications are due June 2, 2025.
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Need a little encouragement?
Call our Voice of Hope line at 248-646-6407 and press 2 to hear an uplifting message recorded just for you. Whether you're seeking comfort, inspiration, or a gentle reminder of God's love, take a moment to listen. New messages are shared each week—don’t miss your moment of hope today.
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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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