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TRANSCRIPT
Volume 76, Issue 15 April 12, 2017
Easter Victory
What does Easter mean to
you? Is it a tired tidbit of belief
tucked away in your mind, or
is it a reality that changes how
you live? Dr. Walter
Brueggemann, one of the best
Christian scholars, says that
Easter is “not only truth
disclosed, but it is life
disclosed. Because of Easter
I can come out from
behind my desk, my
stethoscope, my uniform, my competence, my
credentials, my fears—to meet life a little more
boldly.” Easter helps us to live “as victors in the
midst of strife,” as the hymn says.
Easter speaks to death, our greatest fear:
“Of course, everybody has to die, but I thought an
exception would be made in my case.” – William
Saroyan
“I do not approve (of death)!” – Dorothy Parker
“Life’s a poor player that struts and frets his hour
upon the stage and then is heard no more.” –
William Shakespeare
“I don’t want to achieve immortality through my art.
I want to achieve it by not dying.” – Woody Allen.
Against the painful reality of death, we need to
hear the message of Easter! Easter is God’s final
word spoken against death and despair. When we
flounder professionally, relationally, spiritually or
physically, we are tempted to give in to realities that are
deadly. Yet Christ promises to bring the power of love
and new possibility into our life situation, whatever it is.
To me, this is what Easter is about. N. T. Wright says,
“The resurrection declares that the cross was a
victory, not a defeat. The deepest meanings of the
resurrection have to do with new creation, God’s new
world brought to birth. When Jesus emerged,
transformed, from the tomb on Easter morning, it was
the first day of God’s new week, the moment of sunrise
after the long night!” Easter affirms that God has already
won the battle that each of us experiences in our lives.
I hope you will join in the full story of Easter,
including Palm Sunday and Good Friday. Park in
the back lot so there will be room for guests! Invite a
friend! Slide over in the pew! I’ll look for you in the
resurrection place this Easter Sunday!
Pastor Gary Haller
Our Church Family; Prayer; Did You Know 2
Children & Students; Fellowship; Lectio
Divina; Planned Giving
3
Live@First; Holy Week 4
Shine; Berkley 5
Endowment Dinner; Outreach; Employment 6
Calendar 7
Worship Summary 8
Inside this issue:
Page 2 April 12, 2017
Intercessory Prayer
The Prayer Team would like to pray for you during times of need and also to praise the Lord
during times of celebration. In addition to your concerns, please let us know of any answered
prayers, family members in the military returning home, births, marriages and other special events.
Contact Elise Norwood ([email protected] or 248-646-6407 ext. 3127) or use a
Prayer Request Card, available in the Sanctuary pews and the church office. Cards may be dropped
off in the Prayer Request box across from the Welcome Center or in the church office.
Our Church Family Our Christian Caring and Concern are shared with the following persons, known to be in the hospital on Monday,
April 10: Jan Everson, Ramona McMaken, Tracy Tripp
Our Prayers for Good Health are shared with the following persons, released from the hospital since Monday,
April 3: John Jennings, Charlene Wallace
Our Prayers of Sympathy and Support are shared with Bob Thomson and family on the death of his wife, Sally, on
April 6. A memorial service will be held in our Sanctuary on Saturday, April 29 at 11:00 a.m.
Our Prayers of Sympathy and Support are shared with Vito and Lynn Sztykiel and family on the death of his
mother, Krystyna Sztykiel, on April 8. Her funeral was held on April 12 at Holy Name Catholic Church.
….that this week’s Voice of Hope message is recorded by Anita Barratt, and next week’s
message is by Lisa Lyon. To listen, call 248-646-6407 and press 2 when your call is answered
by our automated system.
….that we are starting a new weekly video message, “Looking Forward Fridays,” that features
our new pastors, Rev. Elbert Dulworth and Rev. Shawn Lewis-Lakin. The video messages will
be emailed to Steeple Notes recipients, posted on the website, and shared on Facebook and
Twitter. Watch for the debut on April 21.
….that you are invited to join the Christian Classic Book Club for a monthly discussion of
great books from a theological perspective. On Wednesday, April 12 we will meet at 7:00 p.m. in the Wesley Room to
discuss When Breath Becomes Air by Paul Kalanithi. There is a one-time $10 fee, whether you attend one or all sessions.
….that Taizé worship is Thursday, April 20 at 6:45 p.m. in the Runkel Chapel. Come worship in a quiet, contemplative
and sacred way of communing with God, have a private prayer with Pastor Suzanne Walls, or experience Reiki healing
touch.
….that the altar flowers ($60) are available on April 30. Please contact Janet Smylie ([email protected] or
248-646-6407 ext. 3121) to reserve a date.
….that we may have something you lost! Please check the Lost and Found table during the coffee hours on April 23 to
see what may belong to you. All unclaimed items will be donated to the Rummage Sale.
Did You Know
Page 3 First United Methodist Church
Children, Student and Family Ministries
For information about our Children’s Ministry activities (Crib through 5th Grade),
check out our website at www.fumcbirmingham.org, Facebook Birmingham First Kids,
or contact us at [email protected] to receive a monthly email newsletter.
Want to get the inside scoop on First Student Ministries?
“180Seconds” is our newsletter for middle school students.
“Make Your Mark” is our newsletter for high school students.
Get your free subscription today! Sign up under “E-News” on the church website.
2017 Graduates! It’s time to celebrate you! Check your mailboxes this week for a special
invitation to the 2017 Graduate Recognition Breakfast and service on Sunday, May 21. Breakfast will
be at 9:30 a.m. with the graduate recognition at the 11:00 traditional service. Families are welcome
to attend with their graduate. Please RSVP to Beth Torrey ([email protected]) with
graduate’s name, number attending and post-graduation plans.
The Diapers for Detroit Mission Initiative has almost reached its goal! To date we have received
12,500 diapers towards our goal of 14,000. Please assist us in reaching this goal by May 1. Donate
diapers to help Brightmoor families keep their children clean, dry and healthy. Sizes 3 to 6
preferred. Collection bins are located in the Children’s wing, outside the Choir Room, the CLC
lobby and the Berkley campus. Thank you for your support!
Opportunity for Fellowship
Merry Mates….Essential Oils of the Bible were often considered more valuable than gold. We will explore what they
are, how and when they were used, and how they can be safely used today. The knowledge and enthusiasm of our
presenters, Melissa Hansz and her co-teacher Amy Snyder, Wellness Advocates, will both entertain and tweak your
interest in familiar words in the Bible. Come on Friday, April 21 and join our friendly, diverse group of all ages, singles
and couples, for social time at 6:00 p.m. followed by a catered dinner at 6:30 ($13). RSVP to Sharon and Bob Pierce
(248-364-4438 or [email protected]) by early evening on Sunday, April 16.
Bringing Scripture to Life
Would you like to learn and practice a new way to read scripture and know that God is speaking to you and with you?
The Faith Formation Ministry is hosting three monthly evening sessions for participants to learn and practice the Lectio
Divina method, an ancient form of Christian prayer that can consciously deepen your relationship with God through
scripture. Please sign up in the church office for one, two or all three sessions: April 20, May 23 and June 20 from 7:00-
8:00 p.m. in the Martin Room. Questions? Contact Jill Hockman ([email protected]).
Taxes and Planned Charitable Giving
Ecclesiastes 3:1 states that for everything there is a season. April 15 in America is the day to give or receive back from
the IRS. Many of you itemize charitable deductions every year, but have you considered some of the generous tax
benefits of long-term giving, such as a planned gift? Call our Endowment Advisor, Bill Kimball, (216-570-0100) to learn
about some of your options and opportunities.
Page 4 April 12, 2017
Holy Week
Maundy Thursday, April 13
Worship - 7:00 p.m.
Rev. Gary Haller preaching Our unique service of Holy Communion as we remember
the Last Supper Jesus shared with his disciples.
Music provided by Chancel Choir.
Childcare through age four; reservations appreciated
(248-646-6407 ext. 3141).
Good Friday, April 14
Community Worship - 12:00 p.m.
First Presbyterian Church, Birmingham
Greenfield Presbyterian Church, Berkley
Concert: Handel’s Messiah - 7:00 p.m.
Handel’s masterpiece performed by our combined
Chancel, IXOYC and Genesis Choirs. The concert will feature selections
from all three acts of Messiah, which tells the story of Jesus’ life and ministry.
This concert will be approximately one hour and, in addition to the 150-voice choir,
will feature professional orchestra and soloists. Bring your friends, neighbors, and the entire family
to this powerful Good Friday experience as we remember who Jesus was, is, and forever will be.
Easter Sunday, April 16
Sunrise Service - 7:15 a.m.
Chambliss Outdoor Worship Center
Rev. Suzanne Walls preaching
Traditional Worship - 8:15, 9:30 & 11:00 a.m.
Rev. Gary Haller preaching
Shine Contemporary Worship - 11:00 a.m.
Rev. Dan Hart preaching
Berkley First - 10:00 a.m.
Rev. Zack Dunlap preaching
Live@First Presents MSU Men’s Glee Club
Michigan State University Men’s Glee Club performs for the Live@First Concert Series on
Saturday, April 22 at 7:30 p.m. Once called the Singing Statesmen, the MSU Men’s Glee Club
represents one of the oldest organizations on campus. Live@First is excited to present the Men’s
Glee Club in our Sanctuary for the very first time! Join director Jonathan Reed and the Men’s
Glee Club for an evening of outstanding choral music. Tickets may be purchased at liveatfirst.org
or in the church office. Adult tickets are $25 and, as always, students get free admission.
Page 5 First United Methodist Church
Jesus is unlike any ruler the world has ever seen. He’s a different kind of king—one whose
victory was accomplished not through military battles, but through his own sacrifice on the
cross. Christ’s victory is a lasting one—not over the power of this world, but over sin, over
darkness, over death itself. The shockwaves of that victory are still felt today. Empires rise
and fall, but the Kingdom of God endures forever. Come celebrate the reality of
resurrection!
Pastor Zack Dunlap
Easter Weekend will be busy in Berkley with the Community Easter Egg Hunt on Saturday, April 15 at 10:00 a.m. at
Jaycee Park in Berkley (Webster at Bacon). Then, Easter worship on Sunday, April 16 at 10:00 a.m. is followed by the
Third Sunday Potluck. Visit berkleyfirst.org or call 284-396-3698 for more information on all the events and activities at
Berkley First.
Craft & Crop for a Cause is back on Saturday, April 29 from 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., benefiting Diapers for
Detroit. Do you enjoy scrapbooking, knitting, art journaling, quilting, beading, needle arts or other crafts? All are
welcome! Bring your own supplies and join the fun as we work on our crafts and scrapbooks together. Come when
you can and leave when you must. Continental breakfast, lunch, demos, giveaways and devotions. Early bird registration
$35/person; $40/person after April 18. Registration closes April 25. Go to fumcbirmingham.org/craftandcrop or call
Katie (248-399-3698) for more information or to register online.
Berkley/Royal Oak CROP Hunger Walk is coming on Sunday, May 7. Join the Berkley First team as we walk
to end hunger in our community and around the world! There are three walks—one, three and five miles—all
beginning at Greenfield Presbyterian. We will meet at 1:30 p.m. and begin the walks at 2:00 p.m., followed by a
celebration with music, food and wonderful fellowship! Visit crophungerwalk.org/berkleymi to learn about CROP
Walk, and contact Patty Reynolds ([email protected] or 248-376-2475) for sign-up information.
Berkley First: A Different Kind of King
Join us at 11:00 this Sunday in Shine as we celebrate the Resurrection of Christ. We will have
a special Easter service with some great music, unique worship elements, and a reminder for
us to see and represent Christ in the world around us. It should be great celebration.
I also want to say that, over the time I am on leave, our guest preachers will be talking about
Living Christ. They will preach on some of the stories of Christ and how we can learn from
those stories to live Christ in our daily lives. I will be following along online throughout!
God bless you during this Holy Week. If I don’t see you in worship on Sunday, Happy Easter!
Pastor Dan Hart
Shine: Resurrection and Life
Page 6 April 12, 2017
2nd Annual Endowment Dinner
You are warmly invited to the 2nd Annual Endowment Dinner on Friday, May 12 at
6:00 p.m. in Fellowship Hall. A Michigan-themed dinner will be prepared by Cass
Catering, compliments of the Endowment Committee. This is not a fundraiser, but
simply an opportunity to learn about and celebrate the recent work of our Endowment.
The high point of the evening will be a reflection by the Rev. Faith Fowler. She will
reflect upon her life with a presentation entitled “Sentimental Journey.”
All members and friends of the congregation are welcome to attend. Reservations required
and seating is limited. Please RSVP in the church office.
Opportunities for Outreach
Looking for a unique Mother's Day gift? Want to tell her it’s also helping the homeless at
Art & Soul in Detroit? Then join us during the coffee hours on Sunday, April 30 to find the perfect
gift. In addition to one-of-a-kind jewelry created by our volunteers, the Mio UMC Quilting Group,
located in Northern Michigan, has donated some superb quilted tote bags and purses to benefit
Birmingham First’s Art & Soul ministry. The talented quilters took pieces and parts for purse
making and fabrics donated to Art & Soul to make these outstanding items. Another connection?
They also support the NOAH Project that is supported by many of the smaller United Methodist
churches in Michigan. Still want more ideas? Check out the Flowered Ladies for sale. Happy Mother’s Day! For more
information, contact Susan Greenhalgh ([email protected]).
It’s Almost Time for the UMW Rummage Sale, April 23-28! Plan to donate, volunteer and shop! Quality used
clothing, household items and furniture are needed for the sale. Please donate items in good, working condition
without rips, stains or chips. The sale incurs costs to dispose of damaged items. Visit the
church website for dates, times, volunteer information, and lists of items needed and those
not accepted. Please help us keep items together during sorting:
Safety pin or fold matching pairs together (i.e. socks, gloves)
Mark sheet size and tape sets together
Bag small parts of electronics or toys and tape to the item
Box sets of dishes, glassware, silverware, etc.
To volunteer, contact us at [email protected] or call Lisa Lyon (248-763-8056). To schedule a pick up
of large furniture items, contact us by Monday, April 17 at [email protected] or call Debbie Berg
(248-798-4898).
Opportunity for Employment
Christian Life Center Receptionist….Receptionists are the first point of connection when entering our church and
are crucial when it comes to the growth of our congregation. Would you like to make some extra money while getting
to know the members of our church and community? If so, we are looking for a few good people to welcome and
assist guests and members as they take advantage of our offerings in the CLC. Available shifts are Monday and
Thursday mornings from 6:45-12:15. Applications and job descriptions are available in the church office and on the
church website. If interested, please contact Beckie Bower ([email protected]).
Page 7 First United Methodist Church
Happening This Week Saturday, April 15
Christian Life Center Closed
Easter Sunday, April 16
7:15 a.m. Sunrise Service
8:15 a.m. Traditional Worship
9:30 a.m. Traditional Worship
10:00 a.m. Worship (Berkley)
11:00 a.m. Contemporary Worship
11:00 a.m. Traditional Worship
Monday, April 17
8:00 a.m. Strength Training
9:00 a.m. Chair Yoga (Berkley)
9:00 a.m. Parent/Toddler Open Gym
9:30 a.m. Mat Pilates
11:30 a.m. Grief with Grace
11:30 a.m. Stretch 4 Life
12:30 p.m. Tiny Tots Dance
12:45 p.m. Parents of HS/College
1:00 p.m. Front Porches
1:00 p.m. Senior Volleyball
5:30 p.m. Hip Hop Enrichment
6:30 p.m. Ballet
7:00 p.m. Adult Karate
7:00 p.m. Monday Night Bible Study
Tuesday, April 18
6:30 a.m. Tuesday Men’s Bible Study
8:00 a.m. W.O.W. Leaders
9:00 a.m. Parent/Toddler Open Gym
9:30 a.m. Tuesday Women’s Study
9:30 a.m. Women’s Handbells
9:45 a.m. C.O.W.
10:00 a.m. W.O.W. Bible Study
10:45 a.m. Talking Helps
11:00 a.m. Stretch 4 Life
1:00 p.m. Bridge on Tuesdays
1:00 p.m. Tiny Tots Dance
5:30 p.m. Hatha Mat Yoga (Berkley)
7:00 p.m. Church & Society
7:30 p.m. Men’s Basketball
Wednesday, April 19
6:15 a.m. Arbon Dennis (Dilgard)
7:30 a.m. Word for Working Women
8:00 a.m. Strength Training
9:00 a.m. GRIP
9:00 a.m. Parent/Toddler Open Gym
9:30 a.m. Mat Pilates
11:00 a.m. Singing Bowls
12:30 p.m. Cards in the Afternoon
12:30 p.m. Sisters
1:00 p.m. Senior Volleyball
6:00 p.m. Core Circuit (Berkley)
6:30 p.m. Young Adult Study (Offsite)
7:00 p.m. Boy Scout Troop #1032
7:00 p.m. Boy Scout Parent Meeting
7:00 p.m. Cub Scout Pack Meeting
7:00 p.m. Landscape Committee
7:00 p.m. Trustees
7:00 p.m. Zumba (Berkley)
8:00 p.m. Chancel Choir
8:00 p.m. Men’s Bible Study
Thursday, April 20
9:00 a.m. Chair Yoga (Berkley)
9:00 a.m. Mother’s Study
9:00 a.m. Parent/Toddler Open Gym
9:30 a.m. Prelude: 24-36 Months
10:15 a.m. Prelude: Walkers-24 Months
11:00 a.m. Prelude: Newborns-Walkers
11:00 a.m. Stretch 4 Life
1:00 p.m. Caregiver’s Support Group
1:00 p.m. Mahjong
1:00 p.m. Purl Girls
1:30 p.m. Tai Chi
4:00 p.m. Spark
4:15 p.m. Covenant Choir
4:15 p.m. Disciple Choir
4:15 p.m. Sonshine Choir
5:00 p.m. Cherub Choir
5:00 p.m. Children’s Bells
6:30 p.m. Jr./Sr. Karate
6:45 p.m. Taize Worship Service
7:00 p.m. Lectio Divina Class
7:00 p.m. Adult Karate
7:00 p.m. Investment Committee
7:30 p.m. Chancel Choir
7:30 p.m. Unfinished Christian Women
Friday, April 21
8:00 a.m. Strength Training
9:00 a.m. Core Circuit (Berkley)
9:00 a.m. Parent/Toddler Open Gym
9:30 a.m. Mat Pilates
10:00 a.m. Zumba (Berkley)
11:00 a.m. Hatha Mat Yoga (Berkley)
6:00 p.m. Merry Mates
6:00 p.m. Parents Night Out
Wednesday, April 12
6:15 a.m. Arbon Dennis
7:30 a.m. Word for Working Women
7:40 a.m. Lenten Midweek Service
8:00 a.m. Strength Training
9:00 a.m. GRIP
9:00 a.m. Parent/Toddler Open Gym
9:30 a.m. Mat Pilates
10:00 a.m. Aging Ain’t for Sissies
11:00 a.m. Aware!
12:30 p.m. Cards in the Afternoon
12:30 p.m. Sisters
1:00 p.m. Rummage Committee
1:00 p.m. Senior Volleyball
6:00 p.m. Core Circuit (Berkley)
7:00 p.m. Boy Scout Troop #1032
7:00 p.m. Boy Scout Parent Meeting
7:00 p.m. Christian Classic Book Club
7:00 p.m. Cub Scout Den Meeting
7:00 p.m. Zumba (Berkley)
8:00 p.m. Chancel Choir
8:00 p.m. Men’s Bible Study
Maundy Thursday, April 13
9:00 a.m. Chair Yoga (Berkley)
9:00 a.m. Mother’s Study
9:00 a.m. Parent/Toddler Open Gym
9:30 a.m. Prelude: 24-36 Months
10:15 a.m. Prelude: Walkers-24 Months
11:00 a.m. Prelude: Newborns-Walkers
11:00 a.m. Stretch 4 Life
1:00 p.m. Mahjong
1:00 p.m. Purl Girls
1:30 p.m. Tai Chi
4:00 p.m. Spark
4:15 p.m. Covenant Choir
4:15 p.m. Disciple Choir
4:15 p.m. Sonshine Choir
5:00 p.m. Cherub Choir
5:00 p.m. Children’s Bells
6:30 p.m. Jr./Sr. Karate
7:00 p.m. Adult Karate
7:00 p.m. Maundy Thursday Service
Good Friday, April 14
Christian Life Center Closed
9:00 a.m. Core Circuit (Berkley)
10:00 a.m. Zumba (Berkley)
11:00 a.m. Hatha Mat Yoga (Berkley)
12:00 p.m. Community Good Friday
Service (1st Presbyterian)
7:00 p.m. Messiah Concert
Page 6
Easter Sunrise Worship 7:15 a.m. in the Outdoor Worship Center
Matthew 28:1-10
“The Son Has Risen!”
Rev. Suzanne Walls
Traditional Worship 8:15, 9:30 and 11:00 a.m. in the Sanctuary
Luke 24:1-12
“Too Good NOT to be True!”
Rev. Gary Haller
Hymns
“Christ the Lord is Risen Today”
“Up from the Grave He Arose”
“Thine Be the Glory”
Anthems
”Joy to the Heart,” “Coronation, ”
“Hallelujah Chorus” – Chancel Choir
Shine Contemporary Worship 11:00 a.m. in the Christian Life Center
John 20:1-18
“Living Christ”
Rev. Dan Hart
April 12, 2017
The Liturgists are Mark Swarthout at 8:15, Rev.
Suzanne Walls at 9:30, Rev. Lindsey Hall at 11:00, and
Rev. Suzanne Walls at Shine.
The Lilies are dedicated to the glory of God and placed
in memory and honor of those listed on the Sunday
bulletin insert.
The Missions Candle is lit by Dick and Carole Dills and
family in loving memory of Carole’s mother, Demis
Dwight.
Steeple Notes is published weekly by First United Methodist Church.
Notices should be in writing and submitted to Janet Smylie in the church office by 5:00 p.m. on Monday.
Our Purpose:
To gather, nurture and equip disciples of Christ for
ministry and mission in the world.
Our Core Values:
Welcome All
Put Love Into Action
Honor God Through Excellence
Embrace Bold Vision
Encourage Lifelong Spiritual Growth
Support One Another
Easter Sunday April 16, 2017
1589 W. Maple Road • Birmingham, MI 48009
248-646-1200 • fumcbirmingham.org [email protected]
Gary Haller, Senior Pastor
Zack Dunlap, Lindsey Hall, Dan Hart and Suzanne Walls, Associate Pastors
John E. Harnish, William A. Ritter and Robert P. Ward, Pastors Emeriti
Weekly Worship 10:00 a.m. in the Sanctuary
Matthew 28:1-10
“A Different Kind of King”
Rev. Zack Dunlap
2820 12 Mile Road • Berkley, MI 48072
248-399-3698 • berkleyfirst.org
Zack Dunlap, Pastor