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“Bill knows where home is and, in this book, points the way for the rest of us. A tender, affectionate, eloquent set of meditations by one of the church’s great leaders." -Will Willimon, United Methodist Bishop, retired, Professor of the Practice of Christian Ministry, Duke University, Author of Accidental Preacher: A Memoir.
Don’t miss the release celebration and signing of, I Know My Way Home by Dr. Bill Ritter, on Sunday, June 15, immediately following the 10:00 a.m. worship service in Fellowship Hall. Come say hello to Dr. Ritter and pick up your copy!
Books will be sold for $15- Cash, check, or Venmo will be accepted. A portion of all proceeds will be donated to the music programs of Birmingham First.
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Mondays from June 23-July 21 with Gabriel Ervin
Join us for a new Bible study led by our Ministerial Intern, Gabriel Ervin, on Mondays from 7:00–8:00 p.m., June 23 through July 21, in the Martin Room. Together, we’ll journey through the Book of Exodus -- a story not just of slavery and freedom but, salvation, covenants, rebellion and redemption. Exodus is more than just ancient history -- it is part of the living Word revealing who God is and His plans for the children of Israel. From the history of the Exodus to God's promises, we will explore it all! Whether you're familiar with Exodus or just curious to learn for the first time this is the class for you. We hope to see you there!
| Did you know? Every 2 seconds someone in the U.S. needs blood and/or platelets. You can help meet this critical need by donating blood on Monday, July 8. Summer donations are especially important, and we’re counting on you—make your appointment today and help save lives in our community. | | For worship information, including dedications and Sunday School times, click the button below. | | |
VBS Shout Out: We need to borrow a few last-minute items!
Our Vacation Bible School is almost here, and we could use a few extra supplies to help bring the adventure to life! Can you help? We’re looking to BORROW the following: A toboggan sled, A kids’ water table, Camping gear (backpacks, camp stove, and coolers). We’re also gratefully accepting donations of the following: Kids’ water toys, Duplo Legos, Empty plastic bottles (water, lemonade, pop – all sizes welcome!).
Items are needed by June 18 and can be dropped off at the Welcome Desk, labeled Beth Torrey / CFM. Thank you for helping make VBS a blast!
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Summer Building Hours
From now through Labor Day, our building will be open: Sundays from 9:30—noon, Monday through Thursday from 8:30—4, and on Fridays by appointment.
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CLC Summer Hours
From now through June, the CLC will be open Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., with extended hours on Thursdays from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. During the month of July, we’ll adjust to summer hours of 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. The CLC will be closed in August for maintenance, updates and cleaning.
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HANDS ON MISSION: June 17-19: 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.
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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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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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VBS Volunteer: We Still Need You!
We’re looking for a few more adult and teen volunteers to help from June 23–27 at our Birmingham First campus (1589 West Maple Rd., Birmingham). Whether you can serve all week or just a day or two, we’d love to have you! Interested? Contact Dayna Ratliff at dratliff@fumcbirmingham.org. Let’s make this an unforgettable week for our kids!
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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.
Click the button below to sign up to "Man the Table" on June 29, or July 6 & 20.
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TODAY
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.
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TOMORROW IN THE CLC
Due to popular demand, we’re excited to offer extended Thursday night Pickleball hours from 6-8 p.m. throughout the month of June! Join us for some fun and friendly competition—drop-in play is just $8, or grab a Pickleball Punch Card for $50 and enjoy 10 visits at just $5 per game with no membership fee required. Punch Cards are still available and never expire, though fees may increase in the future—so now’s a great time to stock up!
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REGISTER SOON: CHOIR CAMP JR
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!
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IT'S NOT TO LATE TO JOIN IN THE FUN OF CHOIR CAMP
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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REGISTER BY JULY 1
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!
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WEEKEND OR DAY TRIP AVAILABLE
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. | | First Kids Preschool: Now Hiring | |
Assistant Teacher for 2-Year-Old Classrooms
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!
| | 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. | | |
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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