Steeple Notes Weekly Newsletter | |
Read more worship information—including dedications, Sunday School details, and livestream links—by clicking the button below. | |
Today is Ash Wednesday. For all worship information, including the digital bulletin, click the button below. | |
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Are you an artist who expresses your faith through your work, connects with God in the creative process, or simply finds that art feeds your soul? We invite you to share your 2D artwork in the Expressions of Faith art exhibit, held during the Lenten Dinner on March 20 in the Christian Life Center. Your artwork does not need to be religious—all themes are welcome, from landscapes, portraits, and still life to abstract pieces. Artists of all levels may submit up to two pieces of 2D artwork.
Let your creativity inspire and uplift our community this Lent! Click the button below to submit your work. Submissions are due by Wednesday, March 12. This is not an art sale, but an exhibit and a space for you to display your work.
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Gather for a community potluck in the Christian Life Center on Thursday, March 20 at 6:00 p.m., followed by "Expressions of Faith" – a special evening of worship through visual art and an inspiring program. | |
March Madness for Missions
It’s March, which means it’s time for the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament—and of course, March Madness for Missions! Selection Sunday is March 16, so don’t miss your chance to grab a bracket (or two) and join the fun.
The Big Ten is back—will you be cheering for the Spartans, Wolverines, Boilermakers, or Badgers? Or maybe a national favorite like defending champion UConn or Cooper Flagg and the Blue Devils? No matter who you root for, it’s a great way for the whole family to compete and see who has the best bracket predictions. And who knows? Your name might just end up on the 2025 trophy!
Best of all, everybody wins, because your $10 entry donation directly supports our missions programs, making a real difference in our communities and around the world. To sign up, email Mark Adams at adams400@aol.com. Auto-pick and donation-only options are available!
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Vacation Bible School
Register your kids for a fun week in the Wilderness of True North at our Vacation Bible School during the week of June 23-27. Volunteer to help make this event a success! Read all about the ways you can help, find our more information, how you can attend a craft night, or sign up to volunteer by clicking the button below.
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Carrie Newcomer Concert & Workshop
Carrie Newcomer will perform a concert in the Sanctuary of Birmingham First on Saturday, April 5 at 7:30 p.m. The Endowment Board is thrilled to bring this concert to Birmingham First.
| In the afternoon of April 6, from 12:30 to 3:30 p.m., Carrie will facilitate a mini retreat at our Birmingham Campus titled “The Beautiful Not Yet: Conversations at the Growing Edge.” Retreat participants will explore how to maintain hope during times of individual and community challenge. Using music, poetry, reflective writing, and both small and large group conversations, Carrie will guide us through personal stories and practices that help us remain resilient. During the second half of the retreat, participants will work with Carrie to write a song as a community. Participation in the retreat is limited to thirty people, and the cost is $30 per participant, which includes lunch. To register for the retreat please click the button below. | |
2025 Spring Confirmation
Confirmation is an opportunity for students in 8th grade and over to grow in their faith, knowledge, and love of God in a fun way. In the spring the students confirm the vows they made at their baptism by being Confirmed during worship. At this time, they also become a member of the United Methodist Church. Confirmation is taught by Pastor Rachael Dunlap. For class times and information, click the button below.
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Attention High School Seniors!
Scholarships: We are pleased to extend an invitation to all members of Birmingham First or Berkley First to apply for the United Women in Faith Scholarship. This scholarship aims to assist Christian students in pursuing education or training beyond high school, recognizing their involvement in our church communities and encouraging future church affiliation and participation. APPLICATION DEADLINE: March 15. Click here for more information or to apply.
Have a project that needs funding?
Grants: The United Women in Faith provided funds to projects and individuals that align with their mission of positively impacting women, children and/or youth. Click here for an application to request funds.
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Visitation Volunteer Informational Meeting
We’d love for you to join us for a Visitation Volunteer Informational Meeting on Sunday, March 9 from 12:15 to 2:30 p.m. in Wright Parlor. Come enjoy lunch and explore whether God might be calling you to this meaningful ministry. We’ll chat about best practices and share some great insights together. Please RSVP by March 4 to Rev. Sarah Alexander at salexander@fumcbirmingham.org or by phone at 248-646-1200. Hope to see you there!
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Let Go, Be Present, and Worship Through Ringing
In the busyness of life, we all need a way to pause, breathe, and be present. Handbell ringing offers that moment of peace—a rhythmic, flowing practice that quiets the mind while lifting the spirit. As ringers, we step into the music, focus on each note, and become part of something greater than ourselves.
This Lenten journey is about letting go of distractions and embracing the present. With each strike of a bell, we leave behind our worries and enter into a space of prayer and worship. New Day Ringers is more than a choir—it’s a way to serve, to grow, and to find deep spiritual renewal through a mindful practice.
Let this be your invitation to a new way of worship and a meaningful Lenten discipline. Rehearsals begin Wednesday, March 12, from 9:30 – 10:30 am. Join us and experience the renewal that comes through music. Contact Casey Proch to sign up at cproch@fumcbirmingham.org.
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Discovering Your Faith – First Steps
Please preregister by clicking the button below.
Thursdays, March 13 – April 24 | 7:00 – 9:00 PM | Thomas Parlor (Birmingham Campus)
Faith is a journey of transformation. Jesus meets us where we are but never leaves us as we are. The more we discover about our faith, the more we grow to be like Jesus—compassionate, generous, and loving. Discovering Your Faith is an empowering five-week course designed for those who want to grow in their knowledge of the Bible, Jesus, God, and the Holy Spirit. Through engaging discussions and interactive sessions, this course will strengthen your foundation for the growth and transformation that God invites us to experience. Led by Dale Glick at the Birmingham campus.
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A Disciple’s Path
$10 book/materials fee
Please preregister by clicking the button below.
Thursdays, March 13 – April 24 | 7:00 – 9:00 PM | Arbon Dennis Chapel (Birmingham Campus)
Join A Disciple’s Path to explore a Wesleyan approach to discipleship. Over six weeks, we will discover what it means to be a dynamic follower of Jesus Christ, fully engaged as members of Birmingham and Berkley First United Methodist Church. Together, we’ll explore how prayers, presence, gifts, service, and witness uphold our church, develop spiritual practices, and find ways to serve in ministries that transform us as individuals, as a church, and in the world. Come and be transformed—from a wanderer into a pilgrim!
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Meant for Good
$10 book/materials fee
Please preregister by clicking the button below.
Wednesdays, March 12 – April 23 | 7:00 – 8:30 PM | Berkley First Parlor (Berkley Campus)
Through a video-based study of her book Meant for Good, Bible teacher and author Megan Fate Marshman leads us through an engaging exploration of Jeremiah 29:11-14. This study will help us stop discounting ourselves from God’s hopeful future, start living in active dependence on Him, and embrace the good plan He has for us. Together, we will trust God’s definition of good above our own as we seek His will for our lives and our church.
This study is open to men, women, and older youth. Each week, we will watch a video teaching lesson and engage in group discussion as we reflect on this beloved passage: “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” – Jeremiah 29:11
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Merry Mates
As we leave winter behind and march forward into March, join us for a fascinating program on one of today’s hottest topics: Electric Vehicles! Bob Feldmaier will present “Electric Vehicles: Why – Why Not”, offering a balanced look at the pros and cons of EV technology. Whether you're considering an EV purchase or just curious about the ongoing debate, this discussion will help you navigate the road ahead.
Friday, March 21
Gather at 5:30 p.m. | Dinner at 6:00 p.m.| Program at 6:45 p.m.
$20 per person (payable upon arrival)
We welcome singles, couples, guests, and new faces—come enjoy a great meal, thoughtful discussion, and warm fellowship!
To RSVP by Sunday, March 16 email Carol and Jim Rillema at crillema@gmail.com or call 248-851-6438 to reserve your spot.
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Sunday Social
Sunday Social is on March 23. Gather in Thomas Parlor from 12:15 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. for a delicious lunch and fellowship. The cost is $20.00 per person, and it's a perfect opportunity to connect with friends and enjoy a relaxing afternoon together. To reserve your spot, please email Mary Feldmaier by Wednesday, March 19 at mfeldmaier@fumcbirmingham.org, or by phone 248-342-1929. We look forward to sharing this special time with you!
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Volunteer Opportunity – CLC LET IT SHINE!
Help brighten our Christian Life Center with a spring cleanup! Join us Saturday, March 29 & May 24 from 3-6 PM to make this space shine. Drop in when you can. This is also a great community service opportunity! Questions? Contact Page Gorman at pagegorman@sbcglobal.net.
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2025 Partners in Mission Appeal
Birmingham and Berkley First is making a measurable impact through our partnerships with 21 mission agencies locally, domestically, and internationally. Together, we are educating children, constructing housing, and sharing the love of Jesus in ways both tangible and transformative. Sundays from March 16 through March 30, Missions Ministry leaders will share about this work in worship at Birmingham First and will be available in Fellowship Hall to connect with you after each service. Please consider becoming a Partner in Mission by supporting this year’s annual appeal. Gifts can be made online or through the offering.
If donating by check, be sure to designate “Missions”. Click the button below to donate online. Be sure to designate your gift by selecting “Missions” in the drop down menu.
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Pickleball for a Purpose – Registration Now Open!
Get ready to put your passion for pickleball to work for a great cause! Our upcoming Pickleball Competition will raise funds and food to support those facing food insecurity. Join us for a fun and competitive tournament, where top players will bring their A-game—all for a meaningful mission. Whether you’re playing or cheering, you can make a difference!
Volunteer
You can volunteer to provide snacks for the tournament and/or to volunteer at the event. Proceeds from this event will support our Hunger Ministry, in which all proceeds to local agencies that provide hunger relief in our community. Click on the button below to sign up.
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Help Fill Easter Eggs & Join the Berkley First Community Easter Egg Hunt!
Hands on Mission Opportunity! Join us on Sunday, April 6, after service as we fill thousands of plastic Easter eggs for the Community Easter Egg Hunt in Berkley!
Your help ensures a fun and exciting experience for kids in our community on Saturday, April 19, 2025, at Oxford Park (2100 Bacon, Berkley).
The FREE Community Easter Egg Hunt begins at 10:00 a.m. sharp, with separate hunting areas for different age groups. Arrive at 9:30 a.m. to get a good spot, enjoy live music, and purchase a treat from the Cinnabon food truck. Don't forget your Easter basket and camera—photo ops with the Easter Bunny await!
We need your help! If you’d like to donate candy or small trinkets, contact Children’s Ministry Coordinator, Julie White, at jwhite@berkleyfirst.org, or click the button below to purchase items from our Amazon wish list. Let’s make this a joyful celebration for all!
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This class builds core strength, body awareness, and joint mobility for easier movement. Its progressive style makes it suitable for all skill levels. Instructor Megan Fuller is STOTT PILATES Certified. Pricing, schedule, and details are available via the registration button below. Contact Megan Fuller at 586-480-6061 or meganfuller8@gmail.com for more information. | |
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UWIF Spring Rummage Sale – Donate. Volunteer. Shop.
The UWIF Spring Rummage Sale for Missions is coming April 27 – May 2, 2025, and we need YOU! This sale not only provides great finds but also funds vital charities and missions. Volunteers are essential to keeping everything running smoothly, and we especially need Cashiers, Pricers, Baggers, Door Guards, and Set-Up/Tear-Down Helpers.
Helping during Rummage Sale week is a fun way to meet new people, get connected at Birmingham First, and make a real difference in the lives of others.
Childcare is available for rummage volunteers.
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Now Hiring: Development Officer (Part-Time)
Birmingham and Berkley First is seeking a Development Officer to lead and grow our fundraising efforts. This part-time (20 hours/week) role will focus on developing and implementing a comprehensive fundraising program, including major gifts, planned giving, and donor cultivation. Working closely with church leadership and the Endowment Board, the Development Officer will play a key role in sustaining and expanding our mission-driven programs. If you have experience in nonprofit fundraising, a passion for relationship-building, and a commitment to making a difference, we encourage you to apply!
Full job description & application details by clicking the button below.
Applicants can forward their resume to Rev. Zack Dunlap at zdunlap@berkleyfirst.org.
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Labor Day – Memorial Day
Sunday: 9:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Monday thru Thursday: 8:30 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Friday: 8:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.
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Give
Mail your donation to the church.
Give online to www.fumcbirmingham.org/give
Text to give at 248-368-0033:
1. Get a list of available funds by texting the word “keyword” to 248-368-0033.
2. Text any dollar amount (no dollar sign) and fund name. Examples: 50 Birmingham, 20 Missions
Caring Ministries
For after hours pastoral emergencies, call the Minister on Call cell phone at 248-408-0038.
Submit prayer requests at www.fumcbirmingham.org/pray.
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