

Sunday Worship at 10:00 a.m. (in-person & online)

Sermon Series: Why Church?
Coming from ShareChurch resources out of the Church of the Resurrection in Leewood, Kansas, Why Church is a series that explores what it means to be the Church. Each week, we'll explore the characteristics that Jesus asks his followers to embody, and how being in a church community helps us live as Jesus asks.
July 26
Why Church: To be Loving, John 13:34-35
Rev. Elizabeth Hurd preaching
In his final discourse with his disciples in the Gospel of John, Jesus gives his followers a new commandment: to love one another as he has loved them, for it is by their love that the world will know they are his followers. This is the greatest command that we, as Christ followers today, live out: to love each other and the world as boldly as Christ did.
Coming from ShareChurch resources out of the Church of the Resurrection in Leewood, Kansas, Why Church is a series that explores what it means to be the Church. Each week, we'll explore the characteristics that Jesus asks his followers to embody, and how being in a church community helps us live as Jesus asks.
July 26
Why Church: To be Loving, John 13:34-35
Rev. Elizabeth Hurd preaching
In his final discourse with his disciples in the Gospel of John, Jesus gives his followers a new commandment: to love one another as he has loved them, for it is by their love that the world will know they are his followers. This is the greatest command that we, as Christ followers today, live out: to love each other and the world as boldly as Christ did.
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.
Sunday School Schedule
Sunday School for children in 3rd through 5th grade is paused. Children in these grades are encouraged to worship alongside their families throughout the summer. Sunday School for 3rd through 5th grade will resume on August 23. We look forward to worshiping together as families this summer!
Please note that Sunday, July 26, will be a Family Worship Sunday due to the church campout. On that day, nursery care will be available, but no Sunday School classes will be offered.
Sunday School for children in 3rd through 5th grade is paused. Children in these grades are encouraged to worship alongside their families throughout the summer. Sunday School for 3rd through 5th grade will resume on August 23. We look forward to worshiping together as families this summer!
Please note that Sunday, July 26, will be a Family Worship Sunday due to the church campout. On that day, nursery care will be available, but no Sunday School classes will be offered.

All Church Camp Out Worship: Sunday, July 26 at 11:00 a.m.
Portage Lake Campground of Waterloo Recreation
Make it a Day Trip and Worship
If you're not able to camp, come out on Sunday, July 26 at 11:00 a.m. for worship, stop by for lunch at 12:30 p.m. and make it a fun day trip! Worship at camp site #21. You can park at the beach area and walk down the path to find the site. Click here for a park map.
Sunday, July 26, at Portage Lake in the Waterloo State Recreation Area will be mostly sunny and warm, with a high near 86°F. There is only a slight chance (around 20%) of an isolated shower. It should be a beautiful day, mostly clear conditions for worship, lunch followed by swimming or hiking!
Portage Lake Campground of Waterloo Recreation
Make it a Day Trip and Worship
If you're not able to camp, come out on Sunday, July 26 at 11:00 a.m. for worship, stop by for lunch at 12:30 p.m. and make it a fun day trip! Worship at camp site #21. You can park at the beach area and walk down the path to find the site. Click here for a park map.
Sunday, July 26, at Portage Lake in the Waterloo State Recreation Area will be mostly sunny and warm, with a high near 86°F. There is only a slight chance (around 20%) of an isolated shower. It should be a beautiful day, mostly clear conditions for worship, lunch followed by swimming or hiking!
Faith in Action
Still a Few Spaces Available: Evangelism in Today’s World
There are still a few spaces available for Evangelism in Today’s World on Thursday, July 30, from 11:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m. at Birmingham First in Fellowship Hall. This one-day training, presented by Resurrection Church in Kansas City, will be led by Scott Chrostek, who grew up in our congregation and whose family has long been part of the life and ministry of our church. If you would like to attend, please contact Adrienne Trupiano at atrupiano@fumcbirmingham.org to reserve your spot.
There are still a few spaces available for Evangelism in Today’s World on Thursday, July 30, from 11:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m. at Birmingham First in Fellowship Hall. This one-day training, presented by Resurrection Church in Kansas City, will be led by Scott Chrostek, who grew up in our congregation and whose family has long been part of the life and ministry of our church. If you would like to attend, please contact Adrienne Trupiano at atrupiano@fumcbirmingham.org to reserve your spot.
Leading a Group This Fall? We Need Your Information!
If you will be leading a Journey Group, Bible study, small group, or other ministry group this fall, please make sure your meeting dates are on the church calendar and your facility space is reserved. Our building fills up quickly in the fall, and we want to make sure your group has the room and resources it needs. To confirm your dates and reserve your space, contact Rachel Alpert at ralpert@berkleyfirst.org. If you would like to add your group to the Journey Group handout and webpage, contact Adrienne Trupiano at atrupiano@fumcbirmingham.org.
If you will be leading a Journey Group, Bible study, small group, or other ministry group this fall, please make sure your meeting dates are on the church calendar and your facility space is reserved. Our building fills up quickly in the fall, and we want to make sure your group has the room and resources it needs. To confirm your dates and reserve your space, contact Rachel Alpert at ralpert@berkleyfirst.org. If you would like to add your group to the Journey Group handout and webpage, contact Adrienne Trupiano at atrupiano@fumcbirmingham.org.

Angel Tree for Missions: Christmas in July
It is never too early to begin thinking about the love and generosity of the Christmas season. Angel Tree will return to Birmingham and Berkley First this fall, with a goal of supporting more than 300 angels and their families through gifts and food bags. Volunteers will be needed in a variety of ways. Please plan to join us in helping make Christmas brighter for families in need this November. Click here for more information.
It is never too early to begin thinking about the love and generosity of the Christmas season. Angel Tree will return to Birmingham and Berkley First this fall, with a goal of supporting more than 300 angels and their families through gifts and food bags. Volunteers will be needed in a variety of ways. Please plan to join us in helping make Christmas brighter for families in need this November. Click here for more information.

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.
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.

Berkley CruiseFest
Heading to Berkley CruiseFest on Friday, August 14? Make Berkley First your home base! Bring your lawn chairs and enjoy a front-row view of the Classic Car Parade from the church. We will also have classic cars on display courtesy of Bob & Mary Feldmaier and friends! From 6:30–7:30 p.m., we'll be serving as a community rest stop with air conditioning, complimentary bottled water, and open restrooms to help you stay cool and comfortable. After the parade, stick around 12 Mile for all that CruiseFest has to offer, including food trucks, live music from Bandwagon, family activities, and an outdoor showing of A Goofy Movie beginning at 7:30 p.m. in front of Neighbor's Shoppe. Whether you're stopping in to cool off or making an evening of it, we'd love to welcome you to Berkley First.
Heading to Berkley CruiseFest on Friday, August 14? Make Berkley First your home base! Bring your lawn chairs and enjoy a front-row view of the Classic Car Parade from the church. We will also have classic cars on display courtesy of Bob & Mary Feldmaier and friends! From 6:30–7:30 p.m., we'll be serving as a community rest stop with air conditioning, complimentary bottled water, and open restrooms to help you stay cool and comfortable. After the parade, stick around 12 Mile for all that CruiseFest has to offer, including food trucks, live music from Bandwagon, family activities, and an outdoor showing of A Goofy Movie beginning at 7:30 p.m. in front of Neighbor's Shoppe. Whether you're stopping in to cool off or making an evening of it, we'd love to welcome you to Berkley First.

School Supply Drive for Redford Brightmoor
The Birmingham & Berkley First 45 (4th, 5th, 6th graders) Christians group is once again collecting school supplies for students in the Redford Brightmoor community. You can help by purchasing items from our Amazon Wish List by clicking here. Items may be shipped directly to Birmingham First (1589 W. Maple Road, Birmingham, MI 48009) or dropped off in the collection bins located in the Christian Life Center or by the Welcome Desk. Thank you for supporting this mission and helping local students begin the school year with the tools they need to succeed.
The Birmingham & Berkley First 45 (4th, 5th, 6th graders) Christians group is once again collecting school supplies for students in the Redford Brightmoor community. You can help by purchasing items from our Amazon Wish List by clicking here. Items may be shipped directly to Birmingham First (1589 W. Maple Road, Birmingham, MI 48009) or dropped off in the collection bins located in the Christian Life Center or by the Welcome Desk. Thank you for supporting this mission and helping local students begin the school year with the tools they need to succeed.

GriefShare Support Group
GriefShare, a Christ-centered support group for those navigating the loss of a loved one, meets Saturdays from 10:30 a.m. to noon at our Berkley First Campus, led by Sarah Minas. Join anytime: upcoming dates include July 25; August 1, 15, 22, 29. This 13-week program offers a thoughtful blend of workbook study and video teaching from Christian counselors and pastors, providing practical, biblically grounded guidance and support through the grief journey.
GriefShare, a Christ-centered support group for those navigating the loss of a loved one, meets Saturdays from 10:30 a.m. to noon at our Berkley First Campus, led by Sarah Minas. Join anytime: upcoming dates include July 25; August 1, 15, 22, 29. This 13-week program offers a thoughtful blend of workbook study and video teaching from Christian counselors and pastors, providing practical, biblically grounded guidance and support through the grief journey.

Men’s Retreat Registration Open
Mark your calendars for this year’s 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. Click here to register.
Mark your calendars for this year’s 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. Click here to register.

Save the Date: Pickleball with a Purpose
Serve Kindness. Smash Hunger. Save the date 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. Registration opens soon, so mark your calendar and watch for more details!
Serve Kindness. Smash Hunger. Save the date 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. Registration opens soon, so mark your calendar and watch for more details!

Fall Rummage Sale: October 4-9
Mark your calendars for October 4–9 as the United Women in Faith Fall Rummage Sale for Missions returns to the Birmingham First Campus (1589 West Maple Road, Birmingham). Now is the perfect time to begin planning your fall cleanout and setting aside items for donation days on October 4 and 5. Volunteers of all ages are needed throughout the week, including youth and adults. It’s a wonderful opportunity to serve, connect with friends, and support mission work while having fun and working together.
Mark your calendars for October 4–9 as the United Women in Faith Fall Rummage Sale for Missions returns to the Birmingham First Campus (1589 West Maple Road, Birmingham). Now is the perfect time to begin planning your fall cleanout and setting aside items for donation days on October 4 and 5. Volunteers of all ages are needed throughout the week, including youth and adults. It’s a wonderful opportunity to serve, connect with friends, and support mission work while having fun and working together.

Join the Next Liberia Missions Journey in 2027
By overwhelming demand, a second Missions Trip to Liberia has been planned. The trip will feature a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the School of Excellence, with the President of Liberia in attendance. Without the support of this church and others, this first school would not have become a reality. The trip will also include a blessing ceremony on the land designated for the future Middle School and High School, which are currently in their infancy stages. Visits to the Judith Craig Orphanage, a Methodist senior center, a local Methodist hospital, and a university are also planned. Guests will bring medical supplies, clothing, rice, and other much-needed items. If you are interested in signing up or learning more, please email Helen Hicks at helenk7306@outlook.com or contact Dr. Boayue, cboayue@fumcbirmingham.org, at your convenience.
By overwhelming demand, a second Missions Trip to Liberia has been planned. The trip will feature a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the School of Excellence, with the President of Liberia in attendance. Without the support of this church and others, this first school would not have become a reality. The trip will also include a blessing ceremony on the land designated for the future Middle School and High School, which are currently in their infancy stages. Visits to the Judith Craig Orphanage, a Methodist senior center, a local Methodist hospital, and a university are also planned. Guests will bring medical supplies, clothing, rice, and other much-needed items. If you are interested in signing up or learning more, please email Helen Hicks at helenk7306@outlook.com or contact Dr. Boayue, cboayue@fumcbirmingham.org, at your convenience.
Christian Life Center Announcements
The Christian Life Center is on the campus of Birmingham First (1589 West Maple Road, Birmingham) and is open to the public.
Walk Indoors This Week: CLC at the Birmingham First Campus
Beat the heat and stay active on the CLC Walking Track! Enjoy a comfortable, air-conditioned space with a smooth, level walking surface—no uneven sidewalks, traffic, or weather to worry about. Whether you're looking for a daily walk, a place to keep moving during the summer, or a comfortable environment to exercise, the track is open Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Come take a walk with us!
Beat the heat and stay active on the CLC Walking Track! Enjoy a comfortable, air-conditioned space with a smooth, level walking surface—no uneven sidewalks, traffic, or weather to worry about. Whether you're looking for a daily walk, a place to keep moving during the summer, or a comfortable environment to exercise, the track is open Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Come take a walk with us!
Drop-In Pickleball in the CLC – Beat the Heat This Week!
Stay cool and stay active with Drop-In Pickleball on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Enjoy a fun morning of friendly competition in the comfort of our air-conditioned facility. A new SignUpGenius makes it easy to see when enough players have signed up before you come. The cost is $5 per person to play.
Christian Life Center August Closure
The Christian Life Center will be closed for the month of August, reopening on Monday, September 14. This scheduled closure will allow time for deep cleaning and much-needed updates throughout the facility. We look forward to welcoming everyone back in September!
CLC Evening Volunteer Opportunity
Looking for a meaningful way to serve? We're seeking volunteers to help welcome members and guests during our busy Adult Basketball and Yoga evenings in the Community Life Center (CLC). This opportunity is every other Tuesday from 7:00–9:00 p.m., with volunteers serving on a rotating schedule of one week on, one week off. Responsibilities include assisting with member and guest registration and helping open and close the CLC. If you're interested in joining this friendly volunteer team, please complete the volunteer application by clicking here. For questions, email the CLC welcome desk, clcstaff@fumcbirmingham.org.
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!
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.
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.
Communication Submission Deadlines
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 for the Birmingham First campus must be submitted at least one week prior to the requested publication date.
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.
Communication Submission Deadlines
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 for the Birmingham First campus must be submitted at least one week prior to the requested publication date.
