Weekly Newsletter

"By This Everyone Will Know "
John 13:34-35, John 15:9-17

January 4
Justin Work preaching
Jesus' one commandment for the New Covenant is simple: Love each other. It’s so simple, in fact, that we can easily take it for granted. Biblically speaking, how do we love one another in the way that Jesus intended? What is God's prescription for his people, and how can we be the example and live as God's hands and feet? Worship with Berkley First online or in-person as Justin Work brings the word.
 

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.
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Answering God’s call to care, compassion, and service

Meet the faces of UMCOR at Birmingham and Berkley First. Learn how Linda Richards and Chelsea-Rose Jabboori are answering the call to disaster response—and discover how you can get involved in supporting a caring Christian presence when communities face crisis. 
Read the Article

Coming Up

Anápausis Midweek Monthly Worship

January 21, February 18, March 18, April 15 at 6:30 p.m.
Starting this January, we’re introducing a new monthly mid-week worship gathering designed to be a quiet alternative to our typical Sunday morning service. 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. If life feels loud, if Sundays feel full, or if your soul could use a reset, come find rest with us at Anápausis. 

Warm up your winter with our annual Chili Cook-Off!

Join us Sunday, January 18, after the 10:00 a.m. service for good food, friendly competition, and plenty of fellowship. Bring a pot of chili to compete, or come ready to share a side dish or dessert. Whether you’re cooking or just tasting, there’s a place at the table for everyone!

Announcements

First Kids Preschool Registration for Church Members

Registration opened on December 11 for current families and Birmingham & Berkley First church members. It will open to the public on January 8. Visit our preschool page for more information. First Kids Preschool strives to nurture each child’s individuality and innate curiosities in a loving, Christian environment. Our goal is to instill a desire for lifelong learning as we prepare preschoolers for kindergarten and the world beyond!

Donation of Items for Liberia Mission Trip 

The Liberia Mission Trip in February will include a visit to the Judith Craig Orphanage and the Home for the Aging, both United Methodist ministries. We invite you to support this mission by donating needed items that will be packed and carried in suitcases. Donation bins will be located by the front Welcome Desk doors at the Birmingham First Campus (1589 West Maple Road, Birmingham, MI). Items needed include children’s underwear (24 months–size 14/16), socks, children’s flip flops, crayons, markers, and coloring books for the orphanage, as well as cotton underwear for men and women, flip flops, and crossword puzzles or small games for the Home for the Aging.

Finance Leadership Transition

As we move into the new year, there has been a transition in our finance leadership. Frank Turco is no longer serving as Director of Finance. We thank him for his service and wish him well. We're grateful to Karen Mobley, who has agreed to serve as Interim Director of Finance for the coming year. Karen began in this role on December 30. She brings deep knowledge of our congregation and strong financial expertise, and we're confident in her leadership during this transition. With Karen's acceptance of this new role, she has resigned as Finance Committee Chair. Tim Weeks, the Vice Chair, will now serve as Chair.

Birmingham First Campus

1589 West Maple Road, Birmingham, MI

Special Charge Conference

A Special Charge Conference will be held during the Administrative Council meeting on Tuesday, January 20, at 7:30 p.m. in the Choir Room at the Birmingham First Campus (1589 West Maple Road, Birmingham, MI). The purpose of this conference is to receive and approve clergy salary recommendations from the SPRC. The Administrative Council will begin at 7:00 p.m., briefly adjourn for the Special Charge Conference, and then reconvene to complete its regular business. 

Ash Wednesday Brunch | United Women in Faith

All women of Birmingham & Berkley First are invited to a special Ash Wednesday Brunch hosted by United Women in Faith on Wednesday, February 18, in Fellowship Hall, immediately following the 10:00 a.m. worship service. Join us for fellowship and reflection as we begin this holy season together. RSVP here, at the Welcome Desk, through Fellowship Circles, or after worship at either campus.

Winter Activities at the Christian Life Center

The CLC is YOUR space—bring a friend, invite your family, and make it a season to remember!
Winter Pickleball
Check out the CLC Pickleball updated schedule for drop-in hours, beginner lessons, ladder leagues, and intermediate skills & drills with Coach Steve. You don’t have to be a pro to play here—just come ready to have fun, try something new, and stay active this winter. Whether you’re looking for competition or connection, there’s a spot for you on the courts. 
New to the CLC—Mah Jongg
Discover the fun and strategy of Mah Jongg! We now offer Monday night Mah Jongg Classes (6:00–8:00 p.m.) designed for beginners, or Guided Play for those who want help sharpening their strategy—both require pre-registration. Prefer something more casual? Open Play is available Saturdays from 1:00–3:00 p.m. in the café, with no registration required. Come learn, play, and enjoy time together around this classic game! Click here for more information.

About the CLC
The Christian Life Center (1589 West Maple Road, Birmingham) is a space for Birmingham & Berkley First members, their families, and the wider community. The CLC offers opportunities to stay active, connect, and build community through an indoor walking track, yoga, knitting groups, gentle balance and strength training classes, pickleball, and more. For the CLC winter activities, click here.

Unite 3-on-3 Basketball: Youth Ref Volunteers 

We are looking for middle and high school students who would like to ref for our league. Make money for the choir England trip, mission trip, spending money or community service hours! You don't need to be a basketball expert! We will train you! Being a ref is so much fun and you make a positive difference for kids! Saturday morning's 9:00-noon, January 10-March 14 in the Christian Life Center (1589 West Maple Road, Birmingham, MI). Click here to fill out the Google form. 

GriefShare Support Group

Birmingham First Campus
Begins January 8 at 9:30 a.m.
Rev. Rachael Dunlap facilitating

Join Pastor Rachael in the second floor Steven’s room on Thursdays from 9:30–11:00 a.m., beginning January 8 through April 16, for a weekly GriefShare support group. This is a Christ-centered, 13-week program offering biblical guidance, video teaching, and supportive conversation for those grieving the loss of a loved one. To register, click here. For questions, please email rdunlap@fumcbirmingham.org.

Dementia Support Group

Birmingham First Campus
January 20, February 17, March 17, April 21
A safe place of compassion, hope & understanding. Join us for a welcoming & faith-centered Dementia Support Group designed for Caregivers, family members & loved ones of those living with some form of Dementia. We share experiences, ask questions, and receive emotional support. Meetings are led by compassionate volunteers & professionals who understand the challenges of caregiving. Together we listen, learn & lift one another up. Whether you're seeking guidance, encouragement, or simply someone who understands, you are not alone. Seating for attendees in a casual setting in Room #104 - Wright Parlor (or Room #101 - Martin Room). Please RSVP to Kyra Jackman at 248-644-8100 or kjackman@arden-courts.com.  

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