our why a...person per session. to learn more or to sign up, contact katie kirkpatrick (248-399-3698...
TRANSCRIPT
Volume 76, Issue 33 August 23, 2017
Our “Why”
A ugust is a busy time in schools. In response to late retirements and unanticipated
enrollment bubbles, typically there is a flurry of last minute hiring that occurs.
During my service as a Superintendent of Schools, I used to do final interviews with teaching
candidates. There were several preliminary stages in the screening process before the final
round. By the time I met with a candidate, we had a high level of confidence that they were
capable of knowing what we needed them to teach and how to teach it. When I met
candidates, what I was interested in learning was why they wanted to teach in our schools. I
wanted to know their why.
Simon Sinek presented a TED Talk in 2009 in which he talked
about what he calls “The Golden Circle.” Sinek’s TED Talk now has nearly 33.5 million
views. Sinek’s book, Start with Why, is one of the most widely read business titles in the past
ten years. Sinek’s premise is that organizations, institutions and individuals falter when they
lose sight of their why.
This week in worship, we will focus on our why. The letter to the Ephesians was addressed
to a church (or possibly churches) that could not agree on the how and what of ministry. In
Ephesians 2, which is the text for this week’s sermon, the author calls those who might listen to reground themselves
in their why.
Our why is where we find our purpose. Our why is what gives us strength not just for today, but for tomorrow and all
of our tomorrows. As those called Christians, our why is our experience of God’s love through the life, death and
resurrection of Jesus Christ. This why may give rise to a variety of whats and hows of ministry, but it is our experience
of the love of God in Jesus Christ which is our why. And it is in our experience of the love of God in Jesus Christ in
which we find unity.
As a congregation, what we do is impressive. From our rummage sales that annually raise hundreds of thousands of
dollars for missions to Pub Theology, from five hundred Caring Ministry visits with hospital patients each year to five
worship services each Sunday, the what and how of what we do is amazing. It can also be exhausting. Which is just one
reason that it is critical for us to remember and reclaim the why that is at the core of all that we do.
See you on Sunday!
Pastor Shawn Lewis-Lakin
Page 2 August 23, 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 person, known to be in the hospital on Monday,
August 21: Brian Wicke
Our Prayers for Good Health are shared with the following person, released from the hospital since Monday,
August 14: Lynne Kreitz
Our Prayers of Sympathy and Support are shared with Janet Chamberlain and family on the death of her
husband, Cal, on August 17. A memorial service will be held in our Sanctuary on September 29 at 11:00 a.m.
Our Blessings are shared with Namita Joseph and Zorawar Singh, who were married on August 11.
“And he took the little children into his arms and blessed them…” Congratulations are shared with the
families of the following children who were baptized on August 20: Casey Michael Gursky, Luke Andrew Gursky,
Henry Reid Truscott, William Kevern Truscott
….that this week’s Voice of Hope message is recorded by Lisa Lyon, and next week’s
message is by Greg LaBrake with the title “The Highway of Life.” To listen, call 248-646-
6407 and press 2 when your call is answered by our automated system.
….that Birmingham First was a sponsor at the Shain Park Summer Concert Series!
Various staff and volunteers hosted an information table at ten concerts, handing out
water bottles, candy, glow sticks and church information. It was a wonderful way to
connect with the community and introduce our wonderful church and all it has to offer. A
big “Thank You” to everyone who hosted!
….that the Fall Program Guide will be distributed with your worship bulletin each Sunday through September 10.
Please take this opportunity to look at all we offer at Birmingham First and Berkley First and see what may interest you
and your family. Just mark whatever piques your interest and return the booklet to the church office. Someone from
that area will then contact you. Simple! You may also indicate your interest via the online form found on our website.
Try something new this fall as we Gather, Learn and Serve together!
….that you can donate or purchase produce and plants at the weekly Hunger Ministry Produce Table. See us in
Fellowship Hall on Sunday mornings.
….that the Missions Candle is available on September 17 and 24. Cost: $30. Please contact Janet Smylie (248-646-
6407 ext. 3121 or [email protected]) for more information.
Did You Know
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?
The Middle School Newsletter has information 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.
Introduction to Freezer Cooking….Chef Hollie Kotwicki presents “Introduction to Freezer Cooking” for adults.
Space is limited to ten adult students. Watch demonstrations and do hands-on prep as you learn how to prepare meals
for freezing and serving meals later. Wednesday, August 30 from 7:00-9:00 p.m. Registration closes Monday, August 28
at 1:00 p.m. Contact Kim Bowyer ([email protected]) to reserve your spot. The cost ($150) includes:
Dinner – Prepare and enjoy a Chicken Caesar Salad
88 packaged Servings; Freezer Recipes
8 – 1 lb Frozen Browned Ground Beef Packs
8 – 1 lb Frozen and Grilled Marinated Chicken Packs
3 – 2 lb Meatloaves
Turning Artists Into Readers….We are excited to invite you to an evening of learning with Michelle Burkhard. Did
you know that artistic activities help to unlock the brain’s potential? This fast-paced event will allow you the
opportunity to see children’s artwork from infancy through school age while giving you important information about
how to prepare your child for the next step in the journey to being a reader. You’ll learn, you’ll laugh, and you’ll leave
with new appreciation of the art your child brings home from school and why it’s so important to your child’s
development. You can visit www.growby1.com to learn more about Michelle! Thursday, September 7 from 6:30-8:00
p.m. Please RSVP to [email protected] or 646-6407 ext. 3124.
Our Baptism Class explains the biblical basis for why our church baptizes infants and children, the unique benefits of
baptism, and how God works in the lives of infants, children and their parents to produce spiritual growth and the
ongoing ministry of the church. Led by clergy and lay staff, the next class for parents will be Sunday, September 10 at
9:30 a.m. Baptisms will take place on Sunday, September 17 during the 9:30 worship service. Please contact Janet
Smylie ([email protected] or 248-646-6407 ext. 3121) to register for the class or to schedule a baptism.
Page 3 First United Methodist Church
Visio Divina Faith Formation Ministry is excited to share an opportunity for you to
participate in our Visio Divina art exhibit in October. At one time or
another, we have all looked at something and been struck by the thought
that there was a message from God within or the recognition that God
was in that place. Recognizing this is the art of Visio Divina, opening our
minds to God’s presence. We hope that you will share an experience
you’ve had that has been meaningful for you. Please visit the church
website and search for “Visio Divina” for participation details, or call Sue
Csernits (248-321-9362). Entries are due by September 28. The exhibit will be displayed in Fellowship Hall on October
1, 8 and 15.
We’re wrapping up our Get Out! mini-series this week by getting out and making a
difference. After the 10:00 worship service at Berkley First, we’ll have various service
projects in Berkley and Brightmoor for you to plug into. Feel free to wear your “work
clothes” to church this morning as we put faith into action!
Pastor Zack Dunlap
Berkley First: Get Out and Make a Difference!
I just want to say “Thank You” to all the Shine staff, clergy staff and church staff who made
our outdoor worship and Blessing of the Animals happen. It was a joy to worship with 15
dogs, 2 bunnies and a cat, as well as a full crowd for the morning. We also had many pets at
the Blessing from our church body and from the community. Thanks especially to Karen
Porter and the whole Porter family for making the day so great!
This Sunday we will continue our Summer R & R series to talk about the way that God calls
us to rest. We will explore how God calls us to find rest in God and how we can use our
summer to reconnect with God and take stock of our time before the busyness of fall. Hope
to see you there!
Pastor Dan Hart
Shine: Finding Rest in God
Page 4 August 23, 2017
An evening GRIP Moms Group, led by Rachael Dunlap. We will start with the book The Five Love Languages of
Children. Childcare provided. Begins Tuesday, September 12 from 6:00-7:45 p.m.
The Artist’s Way will help you develop your creative side through the study of Julia Cameron’s award-winning book,
The Artist’s Way: A Spiritual Path to Higher Creativity. This six-week class, led by Mixie Hockman, begins Tuesday,
September 19 from 1:00-2:30 p.m.
Financial Peace University is back! Get out of debt and get your finances in order with Dave Ramsey’s excellent
class. Andy Schueler and Tony Gillett lead this nine-week class beginning Wednesday, September 20 from 7:00-8:30
p.m. $93.
Social/Ballroom Dance is also returning this fall with instructor Jim Berg. Learn traditional styles of ballroom dance
from tango to waltz. No experience or partner required! Tuesdays from 7:00-8:00 p.m. Two six-week sessions are
scheduled. Session 1: September 26 through October 31. Session 2: November 7 through December 12. $50 per
person per session.
To learn more or to sign up, contact Katie Kirkpatrick (248-399-3698 or [email protected]) or visit
BerkleyFirst.org. We are one church in two locations! No matter where you worship, you are invited to participate in
groups and classes at both Berkley and Birmingham.
New at Berkley First in September
Page 5 First United Methodist Church
Embark EMBARK: to begin; a course of action, especially one that is important.
Join us on Sunday, September 10 as we Embark on the Journey to say “thanks for
all that has been and yes to all that shall be!” (Dag Hammarskjold) The journey will
embark on the front lawn of Birmingham First from 4:00-6:00 p.m. All are welcome
to join the celebration as we look forward to all God has planned at and around our
Birmingham and Berkley campuses this fall. We will celebrate with games, fun
activities for all ages, delicious food, and a chance to participate in supporting some
local missions. Stay tuned for more information!
Interested in volunteering at the event? Contact Mary Feldmaier (mfeldmaier@
fumcbirmingham.org) or Angela Marcantonio ([email protected]) to sign up.
Fantasy Football for Missions....Last year’s game raised $4,500, and this year’s missions target is $5,000. A $30
donation buys an entry into one of our 10-team leagues. We will once again offer automatic drafting and team
management options, with 100% of proceeds going to support Birmingham First missions. Please sign up at the table in
Fellowship Hall during the coffee hours.
Transportation Needed for our Mission in Czech Republic….The Christian Help Center in the Czech Republic
just outside of Prague is a mission our church has supported for 17 years. The Center serves the homeless, providing
housing, social services and many other needs. Many of you learned about this mission when Gabriela and Roman, the
leaders from the Center, came to Birmingham in May. For several years, we have sent VIM teams to this mission. The
Help Center is now in need of an automobile for transportation of their clients and for the various activities of the
Center. Back in 2000, Birmingham First helped this mission purchase two cars. Well, as you can imagine, those cars
have worn out. Our mission task force is seeking donations to help fund the cost of an auto (about $20,000). If you
would like to help, checks should be made payable to Birmingham First with “Czech Republic Mission” in the memo
line. Please keep the Christian Help Center in your prayers as they serve the homeless in Eastern Europe.
CROP Hunger Walk is Coming! Plan to walk with us on Sunday, September 24!
Walkers—You can start signing up online now. Create a team or walk as an
individual by signing up at crophungerwalk.org/birminghammi.
Prefer the envelope for donations? Walk envelopes will be available during the
coffee hours in September.
We are also on Facebook! Search under Birmingham/Bloomfield MI Area CROP
Hunger Walk. Is your smiling face in the pictures of previous CROP Hunger
Walks?
Birmingham First will again be hosting the CROP Hunger Walk. If you would like to help us on Walk Day, please
contact Gayle Guenther, Walk Coordinator ([email protected] or 248-514-1836). No experience necessary. It’s
a lot of fun!
Opportunities for Outreach
Page 6 August 23, 2017
Fall Classes for Adults
Arbon Dennis Men’s Group….Led by Rev. Elbert Dulworth, over 30 men gather every Wednesday morning
throughout the year to pray, study and grow together. Donuts and coffee are available at 6:15 a.m. After
announcements and an opening prayer at 6:30, we turn our attention to conversation about a book that we are
reading together. This fall we continue to read Searching for Sunday: Loving, Leaving and Finding the Church by Rachel Held
Evans. In the book, Evans shares how she has experienced the church and Christians throughout her life. Books ($10)
are available in the church office. Our study ends at 7:30 sharp. All men are invited to join us any Wednesday. No
registration required.
Women’s Study Group….All women are invited to attend this long-standing women’s book study. Led by Rev.
Elbert Dulworth, it is a great opportunity for women to join together in prayer, fellowship, conversation and growth as
disciples of Jesus Christ. This fall we will begin by reading The Book of Joy: Lasting Happiness in a Changing World by His
Holiness the Dalia Lama, Archbishop Desmond Tutu, and Douglas Carlton Abrams. Along with their cowriter, these
two spiritual giants came together in 2015 to celebrate the Dalai Lama’s 80th birthday and to try to answer the soul-
stirring question: How do we find joy in the face of life’s inevitable suffering? Books ($18) are available in the church
office. The class meets on Tuesdays beginning September 12 from 9:30-10:30 a.m. Feel free to join us any Tuesday. No
registration required.
Women of the Word Bible Study (WOW) meets on Tuesdays from 10:00-11:30 a.m. beginning September 12.
The time includes small group discussion and a lecture. This year we will study Romans through the Explorer Bible
Study course by Chris Tiegreen. Nursery care is offered, along with Children of the Word for ages 2-5. New this
year! WOW for Working Women meets on Sundays from 7:00-8:00 p.m. beginning September 10. There is no
lecture or childcare offered in the evening. Register for either class in the church office. Cost: $60 per year for
homework lesson workbooks. Questions? Contact Jennifer Williams (248-330-9620 or [email protected]).
Sunday Social Cheers on the Tigers! Okay, all you Sunday Social Tiger fans! You asked for it, and the time has come. On Wednesday, September 20, we will
leave the church at 12:00 p.m. for a 1:00 game. The seats (in the shade) and parking (handicap lot) are set, so no one
has to do a lot of walking. Tickets and transportation are $25. Contact Sue Anderson Dale (248-646-6407 ext. 3160)
ASAP to reserve a spot. All seniors are welcome to join us!
“What Matters Most” Does social justice play a part in the re-birth of Detroit? How are the state’s critical issues
such as the Flint water crisis and crumbling infrastructure being addressed? How can we use
our Christian values to address the growing disparity of our nation’s citizens? Join us in our
upcoming three-part series, “What Matters Most,” sponsored by Faith Formation.
September 8 Local Matters
October 6 State Matters
November 3 National Matters with an interactive experience
The programs will be held in Fellowship Hall at 7:00 p.m. For more information, contact Mixie Hockman
Page 7 First United Methodist Church
Happening This Week Sunday, August 27
8:30 a.m. Traditional Worship
10:00 a.m. Contemporary Worship
10:00 a.m. Traditional Worship
10:00 a.m. Worship (Berkley)
11:15 a.m. Summer Sundaes
Monday, August 28
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. Stretch 4 Life
1:00 p.m. Senior Volleyball
7:00 p.m. Adult Karate
Tuesday, August 29
6:30 a.m. Tuesday Men’s Bible Study
9:00 a.m. Parent/Toddler Open Gym
9:30 a.m. Bridge
11:00 a.m. Stretch 4 Life
1:00 p.m. Bridge on Tuesdays
7:00 p.m. Tuesday Study Group
(Berkley)
Wednesday, August 30
6:15 a.m. Arbon Dennis (Schoelch)
9:00 a.m. Parent/Toddler Open Gym
9:30 a.m. Mat Pilates
12:30 p.m. Bridge in the Afternoon
1:00 p.m. Mahjong
1:00 p.m. Senior Volleyball
7:00 p.m. Boy Scouts
7:00 p.m. Intro to Freezer Cooking
7:00 p.m. Landscape Committee
Thursday, August 31
9:00 a.m. Chair Yoga (Berkley)
9:00 a.m. Parent/Toddler Open Gym
11:00 a.m. Stretch 4 Life
1:00 p.m. Mahjong
1:00 p.m. Purl Girls
6:30 p.m. Jr./Sr. Karate
Friday, September 1
9:00 a.m. Parent/Toddler Open Gym
9:30 a.m. Mat Pilates
Saturday, September 2
Building Closed
Wednesday, August 23
6:15 a.m. Arbon Dennis Men’s Group
9:00 a.m. Parent/Toddler Open Gym
9:30 a.m. Mat Pilates
12:30 p.m. Bridge in the Afternoon
1:00 p.m. Mahjong
1:00 p.m. Rummage Committee
1:00 p.m. Senior Volleyball
7:00 p.m. Boy Scouts
Thursday, August 24
9:00 a.m. Chair Yoga (Berkley)
9:00 a.m. Parent/Toddler Open Gym
11:00 a.m. Stretch 4 Life
1:00 p.m. Mahjong
1:00 p.m. Purl Girls
6:30 p.m. Jr./Sr. Karate
7:00 p.m. Adult Karate
Friday, August 25
9:00 a.m. Parent/Toddler Open Gym
9:30 a.m. Mat Pilates
Saturday, August 26
Nothing Scheduled
Employment Opportunities The Technology Department is seeking a part-time Technology Assistant. The
position requires technical proficiency as well as the ability to provide training and
support to end users. While the work schedule for this part-time position is
negotiable to accommodate the ideal candidate, the schedule will need to include
some availability during normal office hours (9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. weekdays).
Please direct questions and submit applications to sueanderson@
fumcbirmingham.org no later than August 31, 2017.
The Children, Family and Student Ministries team lives out their passion for great
ministry by providing excellent programs and events and building meaningful
relationships. We are seeking to expand our ministry offerings and grow the team by adding a Project and Event
Administrator to oversee and expand programs and events. If you, or someone you know, would like to join this
magnificent team, direct questions and submit applications to [email protected].
Complete job descriptions and applications for both positions are available at www.fumcbirmingham.org/home/
employment opportunities, as well as in the main church office.
The Liturgist is Rev. Lindsey Hall at 8:30 and Rev.
Suzanne Walls at 10:00.
The Altar Flowers are dedicated to the glory of God
and placed in celebration of Barb Plants’ 90th birthday by
her family.
The Rosebud on the altar announces the birth of
Benjamin Matthew Tolkacz, born July 7 to Matthew and
Allison Tolkacz.
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.
Sunday, August 27, 2017
Traditional Worship 8:30 and 10:00 a.m. in the Sanctuary
Ephesians 2:1-22
“Where is Your Why?”
Rev. Shawn Lewis-Lakin
Hymns
“O For a Thousand Tongues to Sing”
“Ask Ye What Great Thing I Know”
“We’ve a Story to Tell to the Nations”
Music
“His Eye Is On the Sparrow”
Tiffany Ericson, soprano
Shine Contemporary Worship 10:00 a.m. in the Christian Life Center
Matthew 11:28-30
Summer R & R:
“Rest”
Rev. Dan Hart
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
1589 W. Maple Road • Birmingham, MI 48009
248-646-1200 • fumcbirmingham.org [email protected]
Elbert Dulworth, Senior Pastor
Shawn Lewis-Lakin, Senior Associate Pastor
Zack Dunlap, Lindsey Hall, Dan Hart and Suzanne Walls, Associate Pastors
John E. Harnish, William A. Ritter and Robert P. Ward, Pastors Emeriti
2820 12 Mile Road • Berkley, MI 48072
248-399-3698 • berkleyfirst.org
Zack Dunlap, Pastor
Weekly Worship 10:00 a.m. in the Sanctuary
James 2:14-18
Get Out:
“Get Out and Make a Difference!”
Rev. Zack Dunlap
Page 8 August 23, 2017