Weekly Newsletter

Sermon Information for February 22

“Lord, Teach Us to Pray”, Luke 1:1-10
Rev. Dr. Jack Harnish preaching

"When you pray..."
If you were to pick three words to describe what prayer means for you, what would they be?  What triggers your prayers?  Bottom line, how are we to pray?

The disciples simply asked Jesus, "Teach us to pray."  In response, he offered them what we call "The Lord's Prayer."  Perhaps it would be more appropriate to call it "The Disciples' Prayer" since it was a given as a pattern, a model to guide us in our relationship with God.  

This week we begin a Lenten series on "The Disciples' Prayer: Manifesto for Ministry," based on Luke 1:1-10.  I'd encourage you to read it in advance and try to identify three words you would use to describe what prayer means for you.

Pastor Jack
Attend worship Sunday at 10:00 a.m., in-person at 2820 12 Mile Road in Berkley, or online. Click a button below to attend worship online.

Lent Events & Holy Week

This holy season calls us into practices of prayer, repentance, and spiritual renewal. 

Jeopardy Watch Party for Pastor Elizabeth

It was announced that Rev. Elizabeth Hurd has been appointed to Birmingham and Berkley First as our new Associate Pastor, effective July 1, 2026. Pastor Elizabeth will serve both campuses with a primary focus on leading the Berkley First congregation.

Pastor Elizabeth will be a contestant on Jeopardy, on Thursday, February 26. The show will air locally on WDIV-TV Channel 4 NBC Detroit at 7:30 p.m. We are hosting a watch party in the Sanctuary of Berkley First, and you're invited! The doors open at 7:00 p.m. The show begins right at 7:30 p.m., so arrive early to get your seat. Water and lemonade will be provided, so bring whatever snacks you want, or want to share.   

Voice of Hope Special Lenten Message

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 by Jamie Wells for the beginning of Lent. 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.

Find Rest at Anapausis

March 18 and April 15 at 6:30 p.m.
 Join us for Anápausis, a midweek worship gathering held on the third Wednesday of each month at 6:30 p.m. and lasting about 45 minutes. This gathering is centered on worship immersion—where music carries the message and Scripture and reflection are woven throughout the songs rather than delivered in a traditional sermon. It’s an intentional space to slow down, breathe, and be present with God in the middle of the week. No rush, no pressure—just music, prayer, and room to listen. 
Parents, ready for a break? Children up to 5th grade are invited from 5:00-8:00 p.m. on Friday, March 20 to an evening filled with fun, including a bounce house, games, and a movie. The cost is $7 per child, which includes pizza, drinks, and snacks to keep everyone energized. Click here to register your child.

Make Berkley First Your Church Home!

March 22 at 11:15 a.m. in the Parlor
This is a great opportunity to learn more about The United Methodist Church, Birmingham and Berkley First, and how you can take the next steps on your faith journey. Whether you’re new to the church or just looking to learn more, we’d love for you to join us. Please RSVP to Mary Feldmaier at mfeldmaier@fumcbirmingham.org, to let us know you’ll be joining us. We look forward to seeing you there!

Announcements

Call for Art – Lenten Dinner Exhibit
As part of our Lenten Dinner and Program in the Christian Life Center (1589 West Maple Road, Birmingham) on Sunday, March 15 at 6:00 p.m., we invite Birmingham & Berkley First members to share their creative gifts in a special art exhibit. Artwork in all mediums is welcome, and artists are encouraged to submit pieces that reflect their own creative expression. This exhibit celebrates the many ways creativity is lived and shared within our faith community. If you are interested in submitting a piece for the exhibit, please contact Adrienne Trupiano at atrupiano@fumcbirmingham.org.
Scam Email Warning
In recent weeks, we have seen a sharp rise in phishing emails, including those impersonating Dr. Boayue requesting gift cards. Please check the “From” field in your email to confirm whether a message was sent from a 'fumcbirmingham.org" or a "berkleyfirst.org" account. Church staff will not solicit you for cash or gift cards. When in doubt, call the church office at 248-646-1200 to verify any unusual communication. 
Torrey Family | After the Fire
On January 27, the Torrey family experienced a devastating house fire. In the days that followed, our church responded with care, prayer, and support. Get updates and read a message from the Torrey family by clicking here.

United Women In Faith

United Women in Faith Grant
The United Women in Faith provided funds to projects and individuals that align with their mission of positively impacting women, children and/or youth. Grant funding is now open!  DEADLINE TO SUBMIT IS MARCH 1. Click here to download an application.
United Women in Faith Scholarship
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 students in pursuing education or training beyond high school, recognizing their involvement in our church communities and encouraging future church affiliation and participation. DEADLINE TO APPLY IS MARCH 15. Click here for more information.

Registration Open

Join us for the 23rd Annual Women’s Retreat, sponsored by United Women in Faith, for a weekend of fellowship, fun, and spiritual growth. The retreat is open to all women of Berkley and Birmingham First, as well as their family and friends. The retreat will be held at the beautiful Lake Huron Retreat Center in Burtchville, Michigan. Each room features a private bathroom and its own thermostat for individual comfort. The retreat center also offers spaces for quiet reflection and outdoor areas, weather permitting.

Save These Dates

Lenten Dinner in the CLC: Sunday, March 15
Easter Worship Services: Sunday, April 5 at 8:30 a.m. & 10:00 a.m.
2nd Annual Legacy Society Reception: Thursday, May 7

Community Connections

Berkley First is more than a place to worship—it’s a place to grow, create, and connect with others.
Throughout the week, our building comes alive with opportunities for all ages to learn, move, recover, and belong. Whether you're seeking community, creativity, or a fresh start, there’s something here for you!

More Ways To Connect

Click a button below for more information on upcoming events, opportunities, and groups.