Steeple Notes Weekly Newsletter

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September 13: Welcome Sunday
The Majestic Sufficiency of Jesus Christ, Colossians 2:9-15 NIV
Rev. Dr. Charles Boayue, Jr. preaching
As we return from summer, we will be reminded of the Apostle Paul’s epistle to the Colossians when shows that Jesus Christ is fully God and that believers are completely forgiven, made alive, and freed from spiritual powers through Him alone. Come and let us worship our Lord, Jesus Christ, who is all-sufficient for life, faith, and salvation. Welcome back home!

Featured Stained Glass Window
This week’s window celebrates our faith in this way: “The history and significance of the Cross and Flame emblem are as rich and diverse as our church itself. The insignia's birth quickly followed the union of two denominations in 1968: The Methodist Church and the Evangelical United Brethren Church, unifying to become the United Methodist Church. A traditional symbol - the cross - was linked to a single flame with dual tongues of fire (understood to represent the union of two denominations). The resulting insignia relates The United Methodist Church to both God through Christ (cross) and through the Holy Spirit (flame)."    - The United Methodist Communication Agency
[The window is located in the North Entrance (Maple Road) Door]

Click here for more Sunday worship information, including dedications and Sunday School times/classroom information.
Welcome Sunday is September 13
On Sunday, September 13 we return to two worship services at 9:30 a.m. in person and online and 11:00 a.m. in person. We’re looking forward to reconnecting, hearing about your summer vacations, travels, and life updates, and sharing donuts together on the front lawn in between services. During the 9:30 a.m. service, we’ll celebrate the Blessing of the Backpacks, and Dr. Boayue will offer a special prayer of dedication for students, teachers, administrators, and all those beginning a new school year.  
Find Your Place in a Journey Group This Fall
Fall is the perfect time to connect, grow, and find community at Birmingham First! Journey Groups offer a wide variety of opportunities for women, men, moms, and adults of all ages, with groups gathering throughout the week for Bible study, prayer, book discussions, fellowship, and meaningful conversation. Whether you’re looking to deepen your faith, meet new people, or simply find a group that fits your schedule, there’s a place for you. Many groups welcome you to join anytime and attend as often as you can. Explore the groups at Birmingham First by clicking here.

Gather Together

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Give Blood. Give Hope.
Our next Versiti Blood Drive is Tuesday, September 15, from 12:30–6:30 p.m. in Fellowship Hall. The need for blood never takes a break. Local hospitals rely on a steady supply every day for patients facing cancer treatments, surgeries, traumatic injuries, medical emergencies, and other serious health needs. One donation can help save multiple lives, and every appointment helps ensure blood is there when someone in our community needs it most. Click here to schedule your time to give.
Pick Up a Book, Join the Conversation with Pastor Chad 
Theo of Golden is a moving Christian novel about a mysterious stranger whose simple acts of generosity transform the lives of people in a small Southern town. Through stories shared and kindness given, the novel explores what it means to truly see and be seen. Pastor Chad will lead a book discussion on Sunday, September 27, at 6:30 p.m. in the Circuit Rider Bookstore. Pick up your copy in the bookstore this Sunday.
Merry Mates Opens a New Season
Merry Mates kicks off the season on Friday, September 18, with Rev. Elizabeth Hurd, Lead Pastor of Berkley First, sharing her Jeopardy!-inspired story, “Methodist Pastors for $1,000, Ken.” Gather and socialize at 5:30 p.m., enjoy dinner catered by Chef Hollie at 6:00 p.m., followed by the program at 6:45 p.m. Singles, couples, guests, and newcomers are all welcome. Please RSVP to Carol and Jim Rillema at crillema@gmail.com or 248-851-6438 by Sunday, September 13. Cost is $25 per person, payable at the door.
Church BBQ on the Lawn is Sunday, September 20
Make plans to be part of our Church BBQ on the Lawn, Sunday, September 20 at 5:30 p.m. Contact Sharon Ulep at sulep@hotmail.com to sign up to host a table or reserve a seat. Reservations will also be available in Fellowship Hall on September 13 and September 20. Enjoy an evening of good food, conversation, and fun on the lawn. Church will provide the main course, and each guest is asked to bring a side dish to share. 
Registration Open: Pickleball with a Purpose
Serve Kindness. Smash Hunger. Registration is now open for the Hunger Ministry Pickleball Mixer Fundraiser on Saturday, September 26, from 9:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m. Join us for a fun day of pickleball, fellowship, and friendly competition, all while raising funds to support the Hunger Ministry and its work serving our neighbors. Click here to register to play.

Not a pickleball player? Volunteers are needed, too! Help us make this event a success by lending a hand throughout the day. Click here to sign up to volunteer.
Hands on Mission Sunday, September 27
Come be the hands and feet of Jesus during our Hands On Mission Volunteer Day, “The Church Has Left the Building.” Alongside United Methodist churches throughout the Greater Detroit District, Birmingham & Berkley First will serve our neighbors through a variety of hands-on projects.

Choose how you’d like to serve:
  • Make Fleece Blankets for Samaritas New Americans in Fellowship Hall after worship.
  • Assemble Meal Kits & Brown Bag Lunches for neighbors in need in Fellowship Hall after worship.
  • Serve at Redford Brightmoor Initiative (RBI) by sorting donated clothing and household items. Patty Reynolds will lead this group, with carpooling available from Berkley First. For questions, contact Patty at 248-376-2475,or email patty1229@yahoo.com.
  • Join UMCOR’s After the Storm Team to help Detroit homeowners still recovering from devastating flooding. Projects may include debris removal, lawn care, grass seeding, and light carpentry. This group will meet at 12:30 p.m. in the Birmingham First South Parking Lot before heading to the work sites. For questions about After the Storm, contact Linda Richards at 248-761-0756 or lrichards@richardscg.com.
September Sunday Social
We’ll gather in Thomas Parlor on Sunday, September 27 at 12:15 p.m. for a delicious lunch and fellowship. The cost is $20.00 per person, and it is a perfect opportunity to connect with friends and enjoy a relaxed afternoon together. RSVP by Wednesday, September 23 to Mary Feldmaier at mfeldmaier@fumcbirmingham.org, or call 248-342-1929. 
Men’s Retreat – Don't miss out!
Register now for the Men’s Retreat at the Colombiere Center (9075 Big Lake Rd., Clarkston, Michigan), taking place Thursday, October 22 through Saturday, October 24. We invite all men to set aside this time for fellowship, reflection, and spiritual renewal. To register and for more information, click here.

Donate. Volunteer. Shop.
Fall Rummage Sale for Missions is October 4–9! Donate with easy curbside drop-off on October 4 from 1:00–8:00 p.m. and October 5 from 8:00 a.m.–8:00 p.m. Volunteers of all ages are needed throughout the week, and volunteers receive special early shopping privileges. Sign up at the kiosk between services on Sunday or contact Jane Carvell at 248-379-2662 or jcarve55@icloud.com. Then come shop October 7 from noon–8:00 p.m. at regular price and October 8 from 10:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m. at regular price, and 3:00–8:00 p.m. for 50% off and the $10 Bag Sale. More information is available on our website.  “Use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace.” — 1 Peter 4:10

Faith in Action

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Fall Building Hours 
Our Fall building hours are Sundays from 8:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m., Monday through Thursday from 8:30 a.m.–8:00 p.m., and Fridays from 8:30 a.m.–2:30 p.m. The Christian Life Center (CLC) and indoor walking track will reopen September 14. Walking track hours are Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m.–3:30 p.m., with additional evening hours Monday from 6:00–8:00 p.m., Tuesday from 7:00–9:00 p.m., Wednesday from 6:00–8:00 p.m. (except the first Wednesday of the month), and Thursday from 6:30–8:30 p.m. Saturday hours are 9:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m.  

Preschool Traffic Reminder
Preschool is now in session September through May. Monday–Friday from 8:30–9:30 a.m., please do not enter the east parking lot from Maple Road. All CLC and church visitors should use the Pleasant Street entrance during this time, as preschool curbside drop-off traffic will be traveling against the usual signs and directional arrows.

Roll Up Your Sleeves to Help Others Roll Up Theirs!
Do you know how to check blood pressure? If so, the First Nurses could use your help! Volunteers are needed for about 30 minutes after the 9:30 a.m. worship service just a few times a year to provide blood pressure checks for our congregation. This simple service is offered once a month, and many of our members rely on it as a helpful way to keep an eye on their blood pressure. Sign up for a date through May 2027 by clicking here, or contact Deb Hamel at 248-882-6965 with questions or to volunteer. 


First Nurses Blood Pressure Checks 
Your health matters! First Nurses will be available this Sunday to check your blood pressure. Track and compare your monthly results to be sure you’re staying on top of your health! This free and friendly service is open to all—no appointments needed!

Sock-It-to-Me September
Throughout September, help support our neighbors experiencing homelessness through NOAH at Central UMC. We are collecting new men’s socks in white, black, or gray, men’s and women’s underwear in sizes M–3XL, and T-shirts in sizes M–3XL. Please prioritize quality over quantity when donating. Items may be dropped off throughout the month in the collection bin near the Welcome Desk or in the CLC.

Help Us Offer a Warm Welcome on Sunday Mornings 
Sunday Morning Greeters are always needed at several key places in the church, at both the 9:30 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. services. Your presence, smile and warm welcome make a lasting impression on all attendees. Sign up at the Kiosk during coffee hour every Sunday (and be sure to take a chocolate as a little "thank you"). Also, at the Kiosk each Sunday, you can order your official Name Badge, if you do not have one yet. It's a great way for everyone to learn more names as we gather together! 

College Care Packets: Get One or Help Make One 
As a new school year begins, so does a Birmingham First tradition that has been caring for our college students for at least 28 years! Students and parents should send a current mailing address to cschulte@fumcbirmingham.org by October 4, even if it hasn’t changed. Did you receive a College Care Packet in years past? Now is your chance to help continue the tradition! Volunteers are needed to donate small items or help assemble packets on October 11 at 10:30 a.m. in the Martin Room. To help, contact Sue Smith at sue.smith@beachcom.net or 248-730-3040.

Spend Your Sunday with Our Littlest Ones!
There’s nothing quite like spending a Sunday morning with our littlest friends! This fall, Children & Family Ministries is looking for caring adults to volunteer in the Nursery. Spend time playing, reading stories, sharing smiles, and helping our youngest children feel happy and at home at church. It’s a fun and meaningful way to serve, whether you volunteer once or make it part of your regular Sunday routine. Volunteers must be 18 or older with a background check on file. Sign up today by clicking here, and come enjoy some time with our littlest ones! 
Voice of Hope 
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. 
Sign Up for Scouting This Fall 
Looking for a great way for your child or teen to build friendships, develop leadership skills, serve others, and grow in confidence? Scouting at Birmingham First welcomes new members this fall! Cub Scouting, for children in kindergarten through fifth grade, and Scouts BSA, for youth ages 11–17, meet on Wednesdays at Birmingham First. Our Scouting programs offer opportunities for adventure, service, learning, and fun while encouraging the values of faith and leadership. Learn more and get connected by clicking here.
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Newsletter & Sermon Archive Content
Are you looking for information from a past Steeple Notes? Or a past sermon recording? Email Adrienne Trupiano at atrupiano@fumcbirmingham.org, or call 248-646-6407 ext: 3130.
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To submit content for church communications, please complete the online form by clicking here. Submissions for the weekly Steeple Notes are due by Mondays at 5:00 p.m. Bulletin announcements must be submitted at least one week prior to the requested publication date.