There will be no regular Steeple Notes email on Wednesday, December 25 due to the Christmas holiday. However, be sure to check your inbox on Monday, December 23, for important Christmas Eve worship information, including a digital bulletin and livestream links.

Steeple Notes Weekly Newsletter

You can now access worship information—including dedications, Sunday School details, and livestream links—with a quick click on the button below.

The Poinsettia Tree dedication list will be sent on Friday, December 20 with the Sunday worship information.

Click for Sunday Worship Information at Birmingham First

Click here for our Berkley First Campus Worship Information.

Children’s Christmas Service

Tuesday, December 24 at 11:00 a.m. in-person & online

This joyful retelling of the birth of Jesus, is brought to life by our youngest members and their friends and families. It’s a heartwarming experience for all ages as the children share the story of Christmas.

Traditional Christmas Eve Worship

Tuesday, December 24 at 2:00 p.m., 7:00 p.m., 9:00 p.m. & 11:00 p.m.

Experience the wonder of Christmas at our Christmas Eve worship, filled with beloved carols and a retelling of the timeless story of Christ's birth. Celebrate this holy night together, welcoming the gift of hope and joy.

Worship online at 2:00 p.m., 7:00 p.m. & 9:00 p.m.

More Information & Livestream Links

Holiday Building Hours

The Birmingham First building will be closed on December 25 & 26, and Wednesday, January 1. The building will be open on December 27, 30 & 31 from 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. The CLC will be closed from December 25 thru January 2.

The Voice of Hope

The Voice of Hope is a weekly call-in devotional available at 248-646-1200, ext. 2. Greg Labrake’s Voice of Hope recording will begin the week of Sunday, December 22, and is titled “Christmas Memories.” Greg will share his reflections on carols and Christmas traditions that bring the joy and warmth of the season.

Year End Giving

From our hearts to yours: Thank you for shaping lives and empowering ministries this year. As we count down to 2025, there’s still time to make a difference. Finalize your gift today and ensure a lasting legacy. To explore your giving options click the button below.

Explore Year End Giving Options

Featured Announcements

Loop Band Strength Training: Intermediate Level

Join doctors of physical therapy from Dawn Thomas Physical Therapy for a six-week course designed for seniors. The class includes stretching, breathing warm-ups, educational insights, and strengthening exercises using loop bands or no-equipment resistance, with modifications available for all abilities. Classes are held Thursdays, 1:15–2:15 PM, in the North Conference Room. Cost: $125 (loop bands available for purchase at $15). Contact Dawn Thomas Physical Therapy at 248-464-5001 or drdawn@dthomaspt.com.

Discover First – Sunday, January 12, 2025, at 6:00 PM

Thinking about making Birmingham First your church home? Join us for the Discover First class in the Martin Room! This one-session gathering will equip you with the knowledge, resources, and connections to take your next steps with us. You'll be given an opportunity to grab dinner from the Sunday Evening Dinner in Fellowship Hall. RSVP to Mary Feldmaier at mfeldmaier@fumcbirmingham.org. We can’t wait to welcome you!

Sympathies and funeral notices are sent out to a subscribed email list every Saturday. To receive the most up to date notifications on funeral and death announcements from within our church community, please sign up to receive the weekly sympathies email by clicking the button below.

Groups

Tuesday Women’s Group: Book Study

Join us for a thoughtful and inspiring study of Everything Happens for a Reason (And Other Lies I’ve Loved) by Kate Bowler. This engaging book study begins on Tuesday, January 7, at 9:30 AM in the Martin Room. Explore themes of faith, life’s challenges, and finding meaning alongside the Tuesday Morning Women’s Group. We look forward to rich discussions and shared insights! This study runs from January 7 to March 4, 2025.

Contact Rev. Sarah Alexander for more information: salexander@fumcbirmingham.org.

Ways You Can Help

Give the Gift of Pickleball

Stop by the CLC to purchase your Drop-in Pickleball Punch Card for the pickler in your life!

As the days get darker, don’t let your pickleball game dim! Play on our well-lit courts to keep your game in full swing this season!

Pick Your Game

Inclement Weather Policy Update

In the event of severe weather, here’s what you need to know about our building and activity schedules:

Children & Youth Activities: All morning children and youth activities will be canceled if Birmingham Public Schools (BPS) close due to weather conditions. Afternoon and evening activities will be determined by the individual leader (e.g., evening choir rehearsal may be held at the discretion of the music director).

CLC Closure: The Christian Life Center (CLC) will also close if BPS closes.

Main Building: The main church building will remain open by appointment only.
Please note, as we may be functioning with limited custodial staff, turning on lights, etc., may need to be managed by individual groups.
Any on-site meetings require prior arrangements with your staff liaison or supervisor.

Thank you for your understanding and cooperation as we navigate potential winter weather together! Please watch our social media channels and website for the latest updates. Stay safe and stay warm!