Birmingham & Berkley First: April Showers for NOAH
Throughout the month of April, we invite you to support our neighbors in need by donating t-shirts, socks, and underwear for NOAH in partnership with The WAVE Project. The WAVE Project’s mobile shower unit provides a safe, clean, and private space for individuals experiencing homelessness, along with hygiene supplies, fresh clothing, and connection to community services. We are seeking new men’s socks (white, black, or gray only), as well as men’s and women’s underwear (sizes M–3XL) and t-shirts (sizes M–3XL). Please prioritize quality over quantity when donating. Items may be dropped off in the Christian Life Center or in the bin near the Welcome Desk at the Birmingham First campus.
Birmingham First: Spring Clean-UpDid you know that Birmingham First sits on 9 acres? While much of that space is home to our buildings, there is still plenty of property to care for. Join us on Saturday, May 2, from 9:00 a.m. to noon as we spruce up the grounds after a long winter. Tasks will include cutting back grasses, pulling weeds, picking up trash and fallen branches, and edging garden beds. Yard waste bags, donuts, and coffee will be provided. Please bring your own gloves, hat, weeding tools, and a bucket. No experience is necessary—just a willingness to help! To volunteer or ask questions, contact Jane Carvell at 248-379-2662 or
jcarve55@gmail.com.
Birmingham & Berkley First: Support the Hunger Ministry While You ShopDid you know you can support the Hunger Ministry just by doing your regular grocery shopping? Through the Kroger Community Rewards program, we receive about $200 each quarter—at no extra cost to you. By linking your Kroger card to the church, a portion of your purchases is automatically donated to support our ministries. It’s simple to sign up and makes a meaningful difference.
Click here to get started and turn your everyday shopping into ongoing support.
Birmingham & Berkley First: Spring Cleaning for Samaritas New AmericansIt’s the season for Easter lilies, April showers, and spring cleaning! Help our refugee neighbors in Southeast Michigan by donating new, unopened household cleaning supplies. Drop items at the Welcome Desk. Most needed: paper towels, dish soap, laundry detergent, sponges, all-purpose cleaner, mops, brooms, and trash bags.
Click here for the Amazon Wish List.
Birmingham & Berkley First: Career Fair Volunteers NeededJoin us for a meaningful service opportunity at the Samaritas Refugee Youth Mentorship Program Career Fair on May 16 from 11:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m. The Samaritas New Americans Missions Project at Birmingham and Berkley First is seeking adult volunteers to share their career journeys with students in a fun, high-impact setting. Volunteers will speak in small groups about their education and career paths and answer questions from youth eager to learn and grow. Lunch will be provided, along with time to connect with students. All professions are welcome, with a particular need for those in healthcare, education, business, finance, engineering, manufacturing, and skilled trades. If you are interested in volunteering or supporting the event, please contact Rachel Campbell at
rachelcwaltz@gmail.com.
Birmingham & Berkley First:Celebrate the Heart of BaldwinThe Baldwin Center, one of our 22 mission partners, invites you to be a difference maker by attending the Baldwin Center Gala on May 15, at 6:30 p.m. at the Lafayette Grande Banquet Facility in Pontiac. This special evening supports vital services including hot meals, coats, showers, afterschool programs, and more for our neighbors in need. Guests will enjoy a strolling supper, silent auction, awards, entertainment, and meaningful opportunities to give. For tickets go to
baldwincenter.org.
Birmingham First: Discover the Wisdom of E. Stanley Jones
Does a preacher from the previous century have anything to say to this generation? Absolutely.
The legacy of E. Stanley Jones continues to speak with clarity and relevance today, shaped by his friendship with Mahatma Gandhi and influencing leaders like Martin Luther King Jr.. In a new book by John E. Harnish, readers will find 30 short, inspiring stories from Jones’ life and ministry that highlight the timeless, love-centered wisdom at the heart of Christianity. These reflections can be used as daily devotionals or as a resource for small groups, Sunday school classes, and congregational study, and the book includes a discussion guide and access to introductory videos. Stop by Circuit Rider Bookstore in Fellowship Hall this Sunday to pick up your copy.