Steeple Notes Weekly Newsletter

Sunday, August 23
Here I Am, Lord, Romans 12:1-8
Rev. Dr. Charles Boayue, Jr. preaching
In his epistle to the Romans, the Apostle Paul encourages new converts to offer themselves to God with true Christian worship, not as isolated religious ritual, but the radical offering of everyday life to God, embodied by transformation of the mind, deep personal humility, and the active, collaborative use of unique spiritual gifts within the church community. This collaborative interplay of personal piety and social holiness ultimately yields the witness and impact the world desperately needs today.

Featured Stained Glass Window
In Romans 11:1, Paul states: “… I myself am an Israelite, a descendant of  Abraham, a member of the tribe of Benjamin.” This Sunday’s window highlights the tribe of Benjamin, whose symbol is the wolf – imagery highlighting the tribe’s strength and military prowess, emphasizing their resilience and formidable nature, and shaping the tribe’s identity within the broader narrative of Christianity… “The disciples have been sent out as lambs amidst the wolves (Luke 10:3), and in response the Benjamite wolf has lain down with the Lamb (Isaiah 11:6). The story of Benjamin concludes then, with the words of Moses ringing true for Paul: “the beloved of the Lord dwells in security by Him, who shields him all the day, and he dwells between His shoulders,” (Deuteronomy 33:12).” [author Andrew Glass]
[located in the Sanctuary west wall, central window, right tracery panel]

Click here for more Sunday worship information, including dedications and Sunday School times/classroom information.

Berkley First Open Door Hours
From August 20 through September 10, Pastor Elizabeth will be holding Open Door Hours at Berkley First (2820 12 Mile Road, Berkley) on Thursdays from 10:00 to 11:30 a.m. and again from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. Stop by for a chat, get to know Pastor Elizabeth, take a look around the Berkley campus, and see some of the renovations and updates that have taken place over the past year. No appointment is needed, just stop by and say hello!

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

Meet Pastor Elizabeth: Michigan Conference Onboarding 
Help Pastor Elizabeth learn more about the people, ministries, and life of Birmingham and Berkley First at this all-church gathering on Thursday, September 3, from 6:00–9:00 p.m. at Berkley First (2820 12 Mile Road, Berkley). The evening begins with pizza and salad at 6:00 p.m. and will be facilitated by Rev. Dr. Jennifer Browne, a certified Michigan Conference Onboarding Facilitator. A donation of $5 per person or $20 per family is requested. To sign up to attend, click here.
After the Storm: UMCOR Volunteer Opportunity 
Help bring hope and practical assistance to Detroit residents recovering from flooding through an After the Storm/UMCOR volunteer workday on Thursday, August 27. Volunteers will meet at 8:30 a.m. in the Birmingham First South Parking Lot before heading out to serve.

This workday will include helping an elderly wheelchair user clear flood-damaged belongings from a first-floor bedroom. No furniture needs to be moved, but volunteers will help remove boxes and other damaged items. She also needs a compassionate volunteer to sit with her as she goes through family photographs, listening to the memories and helping her decide what can be saved and what needs to be let go. Her caregiver will be on site throughout the project. If time allows or additional volunteers are available, the team may also assist with yard work.

There are meaningful ways to serve that involve both helping hands and a caring presence. For questions or additional information, contact Linda Richards at 248-761-0756 or lrichards@richardscg.com.
Fantasy Football for Missions
Join the fun this NFL season while supporting Birmingham and Berkley First missions! A $30 donation is all it takes to participate, with 100% of proceeds supporting our missions teams locally and around the world. No fantasy football experience is necessary, and team drafting and lineup management can be automated. Sign up with Mark Adams in Fellowship Hall between worship services on August 23 or 30, or email adams400@aol.com. The live draft is Sunday, August 30, from 7:00–9:00 p.m. in the CLC, and NFL Week 1 begins September 9.

Last year, Pat Hubert won the FF4M Championship and claimed the Pettibone Trophy. Will it be YOU this year? 
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.
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
Celebrate the start of the fall season with food and fun on the lawn, Sunday, September 20 at 5:30 p.m. Bring your favorite dish to pass and enjoy a relaxed evening together. All are welcome, so bring your neighbors, family, and friends! 
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 is September 27
Come be the hands and feet of Jesus by participating in the Hands On Mission Volunteer Day, “The Church Has Left the Building.” Alongside other United Methodist churches throughout our Greater Detroit District, Birmingham & Berkley First will serve our neighbors through a variety of hands-on mission projects. Volunteers can make fleece blankets for Samaritas New Americans, assemble meal kits and brown bag lunches, or travel to Redford Brightmoor Initiative (RBI) to sort donated clothing and household items. Patty Reynolds will lead the group serving at Brightmoor, with carpooling available from Berkley First.

Volunteers can also serve with UMCOR’s After the Storm team, helping Detroit homeowners who are still recovering from devastating flooding. The After the Storm group will meet at 12:30 p.m. in the Birmingham First South Parking Lot before heading out to work on projects including debris removal, lawn care, grass seeding, and light carpentry. For questions about the After the Storm opportunity, contact Linda Richards at 248-761-0756 or lrichards@richardscg.com.

There are opportunities for many ages and abilities, and you are welcome to serve for as little or as long as your schedule allows.
September Sunday Social
We’ll gather in Thomas Parlor on Sunday, September 27 at 11:15 a.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.

Faith in Action

Save These Dates: October 4-9

The UWIF Fall Rummage Sale for Missions is coming October 4–9, and Rummage Sale is mission! United Women in Faith donates Rummage Sale proceeds to help others, but the impact of this week goes far beyond the funds raised. Members, friends, and volunteers of all ages experience fellowship and outreach as they work side by side; youth can earn community service credit or money toward an upcoming youth mission trip; and hundreds of people from our community are welcomed through the doors of Birmingham First to shop. This church-wide effort is mission on many levels and a fun way to meet people, get connected, and help others in need. Learn more on the church website, or volunteer for the week of October 4–9 by contacting Jane Carvell at 248-379-2662 or jcarve55@icloud.com. “Use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace.” — 1 Peter 4:10

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! 
Roll Up Your Sleeves to Help Others! 
Do you know how to take blood pressure? Volunteer for just 30 minutes after the worship service a few times each year to help provide this important ministry. Monthly blood pressure screenings are a valued service for many in our congregation. Sign up by clicking here, or contact Deb Hamel at 248-882-6965 for more information. 
Make Space for God in Your Day
Whether you have a few quiet minutes in the morning, need a moment of peace in the middle of a busy day, or want to end your evening in prayer, a daily devotional can help you pause, reflect, and reconnect with God. We’ve gathered a collection of United Methodist devotional resources offering Scripture, prayer, reflection, and encouragement to help nurture your faith and make space for God each day. Click here to explore our Devotionals page and find a resource that speaks to you.
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. 
Harvest Produce Table Volunteers Needed
Help support local hunger ministries this summer by volunteering at the Harvest Produce Table in Fellowship Hall on Sundays. Donate flowers or garden produce, shop for fresh items, or sign up to help staff the table. All proceeds benefit local food banks and soup kitchens. Sign up to volunteer by clicking here.

Featured at the Circuit Rider Bookstore
Best known for classics including Mere Christianity, The Screwtape Letters, and The Chronicles of Narnia, C.S. Lewis was also an accomplished poet. In Poems, Lewis explores subjects ranging from God and nature to love and unicorns, revealing the imagination, curiosity, and sense of wonder found throughout his writing. Stop by the Circuit Rider Bookstore in Fellowship Hall after worship to pick up a copy. 

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.
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.
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 must be submitted at least one week prior to the requested publication date.