Gathering together, whether in person or online, is important in the lives of Disciples of Jesus Christ. In the words of John Wesley, we meet together to “watch over one another in love, that [we] may help each other to work out [our] salvation.” Explore these groups and find one that fits for you. Some focus on study materials and books, others are more in tune with asking the very Wesleyan question, “How is it is with your soul?”
Some groups meet in person, online or a hybrid of both. Please contact the group’s leader or the office (office@brightonfumc.org) to learn more.
You may find yourself in many places on the Discpleship Pathway. Consider how you can grow in your practices through study, worship, service, prayer, stewardship, fellowship and invitation. Learn More: Discipleship Pathway.pdf
Click on the purple tabs to find differing opportunities on the discipleship path.
Begin the morning with a Bible or book study, then join in fellowship and light property maintenance around the church. No experience or skills required.
Coordinated by George Lutz.
This four-part, drop-in series explores the profound stories, landmark struggles, and enduring legacy of four pivotal locations in Alabama. Through public-accessible media resources—including short documentaries and powerful interviews—and open discussion, we will explore the intersection of historical truth and modern-day justice. Contact Suzanne Everett or Kara Shuell. Links to videos and Zoom
Wednesday Study Group (B)Take part in a deeper discussion of a book or study selected by the group.
Led by Sue Urban.
Small Group (B)Connect with others in meaningful ways as disciples of Jesus. This group is using Amplify Media to enhance study and discussion.
Hosted by Rick and Sherry Slade
Small Group Bible Study (Off Site)This group’s focus is Bible study and discussion using a variety of books and videos, as well as seasonal Advent and Lent studies. Contact Deb de Laski-Smith. Ongoing.
Women of the Word “WOW” (B)Discussions lead to discoveries about ourselves and our faith as we connect with each other. Contact Anne Walters or Joann Schmidt. Resumes in the fall.
Men of Faith (B)Fellowship, study and conversation — often over donuts. Ongoing – join anytime. Contact Ron Lewarchik
Current Events (B)Looking at current events from a biblical perspective. Register in advance with your email address and you’ll receive weekly materials to consider before each conversation. Meets Sundays at 11 am at the Brighton Campus. Ongoing. Join anytime. Contact Rick Slade.
Lent & Advent Studies (B)Interested in participating in the church-wide Advent and Lent studies? Join a Sunday study group for this very purpose!
Membership Class (B)New member classes are for anyone interested in learning more about what it means to be a United Methodist. Learn more, then decide for yourself if membership is for you. Pastor Lindsey leads Membership Classes twice a year (typically spring and fall). Learn more about the United Methodist Church and how you can be part of its mission to make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world.
Contact Pastor Lindsey. Register online
Craft & Praise (B)Bring your own craft project and supplies. Share laughter and stories with friends. Meets monthly. Ongoing – join anytime. Coordinated by Stephanie Nichoff and Karen Wagg.
Nature Nuts (O)Join this group of women who enjoy spending time together in nature; hiking, kayaking, canoeing, camping, etc.
Led by Joann Schmidt – joannjschmidt@yahoo.com
Church Softball (O)Join a spring and summer church softball team (men’s, women’s and co-ed)! Church softball is a great way to get to know members of our church through fellowship while enjoying beautiful Michigan spring and summer evenings playing with other local area church softball teams. We also have tremendous outreach and community service opportunities planned for our softball teams this upcoming season. We are looking for players of all experience levels to join, from the first time to the skilled, experienced player. Players must be at least 15 years old to participate. Contact Charles Calvin 810-923-9374 or Meghann Calvin 810-923-8963 or email softball@brightonfumc.org. Team meetings and practices begin in April. See Softball webpage.
Tentative schedule:
Music MinistryAdult Choir, Worship Band, Bell Choir, Special Music … Learn More
LiturgistsLiturgists participate in Sunday worship by leading the opening prayer and reading scripture. Contact Kelly Myers.
Worship hosts are lay servants who participate in Sunday worship by leading the congregational prayer. Contact Susan (Snow) Kimball.
Tech Board and Video ProductionWe are committed to continuing live streaming worship on Sunday mornings — digital ministry is our “third campus.”
This presents a new opportunity to serve, learn new skills and help sustain this life-giving ministry.
If you are interested in learning more about video production, running the tech board and related skills to help support this outreach, please contact Susan Kimball or Gene Smith.
Men With Tools (B)Begin the morning with a brief study, then join in fellowship and “handyman” work. No experience or skills required.
Coordinated by George Lutz.
Prayer Shawl Knitting Ministry (B)Create beautiful prayer shawls and other items. Experienced and novice knitters are welcome. Meets at Panera, 9430 Village Place Boulevard (off Lee Road).
Coordinated by Carolyn Combs, ccmomcombs@aol.com
Prayers and Squares (Prayer Quilts) (O)Take part in creating the prayer quilts given to those in need of prayer and comfort. No experience necessary. Meets Mondays at 9 am to noon at the Brighton Campus.
Coordinated by Carol Riffe – carolriffe@mac.com
Prayer Team (B)Experience the power of prayer by praying for the needs of the congregation and community. Contact Mary Ray.
There are many ways to participate in Serving God through First United Methodist Church! Find one or more that speaks to you!
Welcome worshipers and assist people to be seated. Assist with offering and communion. Coordinated by Bruce Stark – and Mike & Laura Kelly.
Greet Sunday morning worshippers at the entrance to the church – 20 minutes before worship to 10 minutes after
worship begins. Coordinated by Maggie Shrier.
Help host coffee hour. Brighton Campus coordinated by Deb de Laski-Smith
Place information in the sanctuary for worship. Coordinated by Karen Wagg – karen@brightonfumc.org.
Fill Busy Bags with quiet activities for children in worship.
Coordinated by Karen Wagg – karen@brightonfumc.org.
Be part of the team that helps with mailings and other office tasks. Contact Wendy Carmack, wendy@brightonfumc.org.
Use this short survey to identify where you are in your discipleship journey. It may help you discern what class, small group or service will help you grow as a follower of Jesus Christ. Enter the code: COKqfg and create your login/password.
Author Amy Kenny reflects on her experiences inside the church to expose unintentional ableism and cast a new vision for Christian communities to engage disability justice. As... read more