Rainforest Falls VBS at the Birmingham First Campus: Register by May 18
Hold on to your hats — it’s the most exciting week of summer! Registration is now open for our Rainforest Falls Vacation Bible School, where kids will swing into a faith-filled adventure where truth rains down, joy grows wild, and God’s love never runs dry. VBS runs Monday through Friday, June 15–19, from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. It is open to children Preschool through 5th grade, and we also offer our Tropical Treetops Toddlers program for older 2-year-olds. All registration is online, so please invite and sign up your children, grandchildren, nieces, nephews, friends, and neighbors. Don’t let this adventure slip through the leaves! Registration closes May 18. You can register your child by going to the VBS webpage: www.gatheredhereforgood.org/vbs.
VBS Jungle Guide Volunteers Needed
We need lots of helping hands to make Rainforest Falls VBS flourish during the week of June 15-19. It takes 100+ volunteers during camp week, decorating days, and crafting and prep nights to help us create a wildly wonderful, faith-growing Vacation Bible School experience. VBS adult and youth volunteers are welcome to serve all five days or any of the days that work for them. For more information and to sign up, go to www.gatheredhereforgood.org/vbs.
VBS Shuttle Bus from the Berkley Campus
VBS is held exclusively at our Birmingham First Campus, and we would love your child to join us for an exciting week of faith-filled discoveries! For families who live farther from the campus, we are pleased to offer a complimentary shuttle service to and from. Please note that children riding the shuttle must be able to use a booster seat or be old enough to ride safely without one. Unfortunately, we are unable to install car seats for infants or children who are not yet eligible for a booster seat. Families will need to provide a booster seat at drop-off if their child requires one. To sign up, or for more information, go to www.gatheredhereforgood.org/vbs.
Hold on to your hats — it’s the most exciting week of summer! Registration is now open for our Rainforest Falls Vacation Bible School, where kids will swing into a faith-filled adventure where truth rains down, joy grows wild, and God’s love never runs dry. VBS runs Monday through Friday, June 15–19, from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. It is open to children Preschool through 5th grade, and we also offer our Tropical Treetops Toddlers program for older 2-year-olds. All registration is online, so please invite and sign up your children, grandchildren, nieces, nephews, friends, and neighbors. Don’t let this adventure slip through the leaves! Registration closes May 18. You can register your child by going to the VBS webpage: www.gatheredhereforgood.org/vbs.
VBS Jungle Guide Volunteers Needed
We need lots of helping hands to make Rainforest Falls VBS flourish during the week of June 15-19. It takes 100+ volunteers during camp week, decorating days, and crafting and prep nights to help us create a wildly wonderful, faith-growing Vacation Bible School experience. VBS adult and youth volunteers are welcome to serve all five days or any of the days that work for them. For more information and to sign up, go to www.gatheredhereforgood.org/vbs.
VBS Shuttle Bus from the Berkley Campus
VBS is held exclusively at our Birmingham First Campus, and we would love your child to join us for an exciting week of faith-filled discoveries! For families who live farther from the campus, we are pleased to offer a complimentary shuttle service to and from. Please note that children riding the shuttle must be able to use a booster seat or be old enough to ride safely without one. Unfortunately, we are unable to install car seats for infants or children who are not yet eligible for a booster seat. Families will need to provide a booster seat at drop-off if their child requires one. To sign up, or for more information, go to www.gatheredhereforgood.org/vbs.
Ministry Shares Appreciation Letter
We invite you to read a special letter from Bishop David A. Bard, offering gratitude for the faithful support of Ministry Shares across the Michigan Conference. His message highlights how our shared giving strengthens the connection of United Methodist churches and supports ministry locally and around the world. Take a moment to read the full letter and reflect on the impact we are making together.
We invite you to read a special letter from Bishop David A. Bard, offering gratitude for the faithful support of Ministry Shares across the Michigan Conference. His message highlights how our shared giving strengthens the connection of United Methodist churches and supports ministry locally and around the world. Take a moment to read the full letter and reflect on the impact we are making together.
Coming Up
Spring Tea with Guest Speaker Rev. Elizabeth Hurd
Spring is a season of renewal. As winter fades and the days grow longer, flowers bloom, trees blossom, and God’s creation comes to life. Join United Women in Faith on Saturday, May 9, from 11:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. for our Spring Tea in the Social Hall. We are delighted to welcome Rev. Elizabeth Hurd, incoming Associate Pastor of Berkley First, as our guest speaker, sharing a message of renewal and hope.
This is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the season and honor the women of Birmingham and Berkley First. While the event is free, advance registration is appreciated. Bring your mothers, daughters, and friends for an afternoon of fellowship, community, and joy. Guests are welcome, but please register separately. You may host a table or join others at a community table as we gather to celebrate the beauty of spring and all that God has in store. We look forward to sharing this joyful afternoon together. Sign up to attend by clicking here.
Spring is a season of renewal. As winter fades and the days grow longer, flowers bloom, trees blossom, and God’s creation comes to life. Join United Women in Faith on Saturday, May 9, from 11:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. for our Spring Tea in the Social Hall. We are delighted to welcome Rev. Elizabeth Hurd, incoming Associate Pastor of Berkley First, as our guest speaker, sharing a message of renewal and hope.
This is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the season and honor the women of Birmingham and Berkley First. While the event is free, advance registration is appreciated. Bring your mothers, daughters, and friends for an afternoon of fellowship, community, and joy. Guests are welcome, but please register separately. You may host a table or join others at a community table as we gather to celebrate the beauty of spring and all that God has in store. We look forward to sharing this joyful afternoon together. Sign up to attend by clicking here.
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. Upcoming dates include May 2, 9, 16, 23, 30; June 6; July 11, 18, 25; and 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. Upcoming dates include May 2, 9, 16, 23, 30; June 6; July 11, 18, 25; and 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.
Noisy Bucket Challenge
Thanks to your generosity, we raised $783 for the Playground in Honduras during our last Noisy Bucket Sunday. Our next goal is underway as we work to raise $500 to support the Henderson Settlement Christmas Gift Store. These funds will help purchase gifts to be delivered by our missionaries in July. Join us for the next Noisy Bucket Sunday on June 21 as we continue making a difference together.
Thanks to your generosity, we raised $783 for the Playground in Honduras during our last Noisy Bucket Sunday. Our next goal is underway as we work to raise $500 to support the Henderson Settlement Christmas Gift Store. These funds will help purchase gifts to be delivered by our missionaries in July. Join us for the next Noisy Bucket Sunday on June 21 as we continue making a difference together.
All Church Camp Out
Portage Lake Campground of Waterloo Recreation
Come on out to the All Church Camp Out! Dates have been booked at the Portage Lake Campground of Waterloo Recreation Area for July 23-27. Book your own sites using the Michigan DNR website, and pass along this information to anyone else who may be interested. You can also come out on Sunday for morning worship and make it a fun day trip!
Portage Lake Campground of Waterloo Recreation
Come on out to the All Church Camp Out! Dates have been booked at the Portage Lake Campground of Waterloo Recreation Area for July 23-27. Book your own sites using the Michigan DNR website, and pass along this information to anyone else who may be interested. You can also come out on Sunday for morning worship and make it a fun day trip!
Spring Food and Supply Drive
Our Hunger Committee invites you to participate in our Spring Food and Supply Drive, supporting local agencies including Gleaners Food Bank, Hope Shelter, Baldwin Center, Freedom House, Cass Community Social Services, Lighthouse, and the Berkley Food Pantry. Donation bags with a list of needed items will be distributed on Sunday, May 10 and collected on Sunday, May 17 at both the Birmingham and Berkley First campuses. All donations will be sorted and picked up by partner agencies on Monday morning, May 18. Volunteers are also needed to help distribute bags, sort donations, and assist with pickup. For a list of items, or to sign up to volunteer, click here.
Our Hunger Committee invites you to participate in our Spring Food and Supply Drive, supporting local agencies including Gleaners Food Bank, Hope Shelter, Baldwin Center, Freedom House, Cass Community Social Services, Lighthouse, and the Berkley Food Pantry. Donation bags with a list of needed items will be distributed on Sunday, May 10 and collected on Sunday, May 17 at both the Birmingham and Berkley First campuses. All donations will be sorted and picked up by partner agencies on Monday morning, May 18. Volunteers are also needed to help distribute bags, sort donations, and assist with pickup. For a list of items, or to sign up to volunteer, click here.
2nd Annual Legacy Society Reception: RSVP by May 4
You are warmly invited to the 2nd Annual Legacy Society Reception on Thursday, May 7 at 6:00 p.m. at the home of Senior Pastor, Rev. Charles Boayue, Jr., 1019 Chesterfield Ave, Birmingham. Join us for an evening of gratitude as we celebrate you and the strong foundation you help provide for the future of our church. Shuttle transportation via the Endowment Express will be available beginning at 5:45 p.m. from the church parking lot. Please RSVP to Karen at kmurphy@fumcbirmingham.org or (248) 646-1200 ext. 3155 by May 1. We look forward to thanking you in person.
You are warmly invited to the 2nd Annual Legacy Society Reception on Thursday, May 7 at 6:00 p.m. at the home of Senior Pastor, Rev. Charles Boayue, Jr., 1019 Chesterfield Ave, Birmingham. Join us for an evening of gratitude as we celebrate you and the strong foundation you help provide for the future of our church. Shuttle transportation via the Endowment Express will be available beginning at 5:45 p.m. from the church parking lot. Please RSVP to Karen at kmurphy@fumcbirmingham.org or (248) 646-1200 ext. 3155 by May 1. We look forward to thanking you in person.
Find Your Church Home
We invite you to Discover First at Berkley First on Sunday, May 17 at 11:15 a.m. in the Parlor, right after worship. Be sure to grab lunch in the Social Hall from the Sunday Potluck before coming to the Parlor. This is a great opportunity to learn more about The United Methodist Church, Birmingham and Berkley First, and how you can take the next steps on your faith journey. Whether you’re new to the church or just looking to learn more, we’d love for you to join us. Lunch will be provided. Please RSVP to Mary Feldmaier at mfeldmaier@fumcbirmingham.org, to let us know you’ll be joining us. We look forward to seeing you there!
We invite you to Discover First at Berkley First on Sunday, May 17 at 11:15 a.m. in the Parlor, right after worship. Be sure to grab lunch in the Social Hall from the Sunday Potluck before coming to the Parlor. This is a great opportunity to learn more about The United Methodist Church, Birmingham and Berkley First, and how you can take the next steps on your faith journey. Whether you’re new to the church or just looking to learn more, we’d love for you to join us. Lunch will be provided. Please RSVP to Mary Feldmaier at mfeldmaier@fumcbirmingham.org, to let us know you’ll be joining us. We look forward to seeing you there!
Wednesday, May 20: Pause. Reflect. Reset.
Join us for Anápausis, our midweek worship gathering held May 20 at 6:30 p.m. and lasting about 45 minutes.
This gathering is centered on worship immersion—where music carries the message and Scripture and reflection are woven throughout the songs rather than delivered in a traditional sermon. It’s an intentional space to slow down, breathe, and be present with God in the middle of the week. No rush, no pressure—just music, prayer, and room to listen. If life feels loud, if Sundays feel full, or if your soul could use a reset, come find rest with us at Anápausis.
Join us for Anápausis, our midweek worship gathering held May 20 at 6:30 p.m. and lasting about 45 minutes.
This gathering is centered on worship immersion—where music carries the message and Scripture and reflection are woven throughout the songs rather than delivered in a traditional sermon. It’s an intentional space to slow down, breathe, and be present with God in the middle of the week. No rush, no pressure—just music, prayer, and room to listen. If life feels loud, if Sundays feel full, or if your soul could use a reset, come find rest with us at Anápausis.
Henderson Settlement Mission Trip
Adults are invited to be part of this summer’s mission trip to Henderson Settlement, taking place July 12–18. This is a meaningful opportunity to serve alongside a long-standing mission committed to meeting the needs of the surrounding Appalachian community. Volunteers may assist with a variety of hands-on and relational ministries, including working in the Henderson Settlement store, helping distribute food and essential items, supporting home repair or maintenance projects, and offering hospitality to those who come for assistance. Whether you are organizing supplies, lending a hand with physical work, or simply showing up with a spirit of care and compassion, every role contributes to strengthening the community. Sign up by clicking here.
Adults are invited to be part of this summer’s mission trip to Henderson Settlement, taking place July 12–18. This is a meaningful opportunity to serve alongside a long-standing mission committed to meeting the needs of the surrounding Appalachian community. Volunteers may assist with a variety of hands-on and relational ministries, including working in the Henderson Settlement store, helping distribute food and essential items, supporting home repair or maintenance projects, and offering hospitality to those who come for assistance. Whether you are organizing supplies, lending a hand with physical work, or simply showing up with a spirit of care and compassion, every role contributes to strengthening the community. Sign up by clicking here.
Parents, ready for a break? Sign up by June 1.
Drop your kids off for an evening of fun at Parents’ Night Out! On Friday, June 5, from 5-8 pm, let us take care of the entertainment while you enjoy some well-deserved downtime. This Parents Night Out will have a BUBBLE THEME with a bounce house, games and a movie! For just $7 per child, ages up to 5th grade, your little ones will enjoy pizza, drinks and snacks. More information in registration can be found by clicking here.
Drop your kids off for an evening of fun at Parents’ Night Out! On Friday, June 5, from 5-8 pm, let us take care of the entertainment while you enjoy some well-deserved downtime. This Parents Night Out will have a BUBBLE THEME with a bounce house, games and a movie! For just $7 per child, ages up to 5th grade, your little ones will enjoy pizza, drinks and snacks. More information in registration can be found by clicking here.
Annual Endowment Dinner
The Annual Birmingham & Berkley First Endowment Dinner will be held on Friday, June 5, 6:00 p.m. in Fellowship Hall. This dinner event is free and open to all members of our congregation and is sponsored by our Endowment Board. Stay tuned regarding more details! RSVP by clicking here.
The Annual Birmingham & Berkley First Endowment Dinner will be held on Friday, June 5, 6:00 p.m. in Fellowship Hall. This dinner event is free and open to all members of our congregation and is sponsored by our Endowment Board. Stay tuned regarding more details! RSVP by clicking here.
Announcements
Gardeners Wanted
If you love to garden or simply enjoy being outdoors, we could use your help! We’re looking for volunteers to assist with pulling weeds, freshening up the landscaping, and planting pots of flowers to help keep our grounds looking welcoming and beautiful. If you’re interested, please contact Rachel Alpert at ralpert@berkleyfirst.org.
If you love to garden or simply enjoy being outdoors, we could use your help! We’re looking for volunteers to assist with pulling weeds, freshening up the landscaping, and planting pots of flowers to help keep our grounds looking welcoming and beautiful. If you’re interested, please contact Rachel Alpert at ralpert@berkleyfirst.org.
Support the Hunger Ministry While You Shop
Did 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.
Did 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.
Career Fair Volunteers Needed
Join 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.
Join 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.
Celebrate the Heart of Baldwin
The 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.
The 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.