Welcoming Rev. Chad Oyer to Birmingham & Berkley First

We are pleased to welcome Rev. Chad Oyer as he returns to Birmingham & Berkley First, beginning June 1; he will preach at Birmingham First on Sunday, June 7, and at Berkley First on Sunday, June 14.

By Adrienne Trupiano
Communications Specialist

Pastor Chad comes to us with nearly 27 years of ministry experience and a deep connection to this church community. Over the past several years, he has been serving in Traverse City, where his leadership has been rooted in building relationships and guiding a missional church. During that time, he worked alongside a strong team to expand ministry impact, including nearly doubling a daycare program, leading a successful renovation and building expansion project, and helping guide a congregational transition that resulted in a new name, Mission Hill Church.

His call to ministry has been shaped in meaningful ways by United Methodist pastors throughout his journey. Reflecting on that influence, he shares, “United Methodist Church pastors are integral to my calling, from my time in seminary at Woods Chapel UMC, to serving in North Carolina at Jarvis Memorial UMC, to Dr. Jack Harnish bringing me to Birmingham First, and now Dr. Charles Boayue being instrumental in my return.” That foundation has remained important to him, and as he enters this next chapter, he is returning to the United Methodist Church with a desire for the connection, support, and shared mission that this denomination offers. 
When asked what most excites him about his passion for ministry, he says, “Being a part of a church that meets the needs of people with the love of Jesus Christ, sharing the Good News to those who are looking for truth, and offering community to those who are looking for relationship.”

His return to Birmingham & Berkley First comes after a period of discernment, and through what he describes as a warm, Spirit-filled invitation. “I deeply love this church family,” he shares, noting the relationships that have continued to draw him back.  

While he brings familiarity with the congregation from his previous time here, he is also approaching this new role with intention. He recognizes that both the church and community have evolved over the past decade, and he is committed to listening, learning, and building both new and renewed relationships as he begins this work.
A scripture that continues to guide his life and ministry comes from Acts 17:28, “For in Him we live and move and have our being.” It is a reminder, he says, of the importance of remaining fully grounded in faith, trusting that when we do, we are able to live and lead at our best.
Outside of ministry, Pastor Chad enjoys time with family, staying active with (knee-friendly) sports, and being in community with others. One thing that may surprise people, he shares, is that he is a baritone, so there may just be a place for him in the Chancel Choir.

Looking ahead, Pastor Chad’s hope for Birmingham & Berkley First is rooted in growth, connection, and courage. Drawing from Joshua 1:9, he points to the call to be strong and courageous, trusting in God’s presence as the church continues to expand its reach and impact in the community.

Please join us in welcoming Pastor Chad, along with his family, back to Birmingham & Berkley First as he begins this new chapter in ministry.