First United Methodist Church-Brighton & Whitmore Lake

The Open Table
2025-05-01 12:00 - 13:00 (America/Detroit) | First United Methodist Church-Brighton Campus, 400 E Grand River Ave, Brighton, MI, 48116, United States
We’ve set the table and you are invited to enjoy! Adult lunch and fellowship. A $5 donation is suggested as you are able.
Please let us know you are coming. Contact Todd May.

Disciple Bible Study
2025-09-09 19:00 - 20:30 | First United Methodist Church-Brighton Campus, 400 E Grand River Ave, Brighton, MI, 48116, United States
Disciple Fast Track provides a great option for busy people who seek to gain a better understanding of the Bible and want to grow as disciples. No previous Bible study is required. Participants are asked to read a manageable 3-5 chapters of the Bible (Old Testament) daily in preparation for the weekly meetings. As part of the weekly group meeting you will watch a brief, illustrated video, followed by a lively and engaging discussion of the current weeks’ session. Led by Bruce Stark. Runs Sept. 9-Nov. 25.

Cass Volunteer Saturdays
2025-09-13 08:00 - 16:00 | First United Methodist Church-Brighton Campus, 400 E Grand River Ave, Brighton, MI, 48116, United States
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The volunteer work varies month to month. Contact Laura Kelly to learn more. Depart from the Brighton Campus parking lot at approximately 8 am to travel together to Detroit and return by approximately 4 pm. Bring your lunch.
Cass Community Social Services meets people in need, where they are in life, by offering food, affordable housing, skill building, and vocational training which promotes self-sufficiency, on a sustainable pedestrian campus and as part of the larger community.
The ways First UMC volunteers have served includes:

cleaned, mended and painted rooms for affordable housing
set up beds for warming centers
weeded gardens, trimmed shrubs, planted trees and flowers, mowed grass and cleaned outside to beautify and make areas safer for residents
prepped mass quantities of bacon and eggs for breakfast, assembled sandwiches and packaged lunches to feed the community
sorted and shredded paper to recycle and raise money for fighting poverty.

Journey Through Grief
2025-09-16 13:00 - 14:30 | First United Methodist Church-Brighton Campus, 400 E Grand River Ave, Brighton, MI, 48116, United States
A small group for remembering, learning a little about your grief, and connecting with others
who have also lost a loved one. Contact Deacon Loretta or Pastor Lynn.

Faith in the Face of Empire
2025-09-16 18:45 - 20:30 | First United Methodist Church-Brighton Campus, 400 E Grand River Ave, Brighton, MI, 48116, United States
Virtual Book Study: “Faith in the Face of Empire: The Bible Through Palestinian Eyes” by Mitri Raheb. Sponsored by Michigan Conference Board of Justice, Church & Society, Task Force Promoting Justice in the Middle East. Zoom class led by Randie Clawson with in-person conversations led by Ben Tasich. Meets Tuesdays at 6:45-8:15 pm, Sept. 16, Oct. 21 and Nov. 18. Register online. Purchase your book through your favorite bookseller. Hybrid Class. Zoom link will be shared with registrants.

Game Night
2025-09-25 18:00 - 20:00 | First United Methodist Church-Whitmore Lake Campus, 9318 Main, Whitmore Lake, MI, 48189
Enjoy an evening of fellowship and games like Euchre, Uno, Yahtzee and others. Bring a snack to share (optional). Drop in or come every 4th Thursday at 6:00.

Conversations on Race Library Series
2025-10-25 10:30 - 12:30 | Pinckney Library, 125 Putnam St, Pinckney, MI, 48169
You are invited to register for this four-week facilitated conversation to build awareness and skills in talking about race. The idea of this event grew out of the “Faith & Racial Healing” class offered here in the fall of 2024. This series is hosted by The Library Network and facilitated by Conversations on Race.
Space is limited and you must preregister. http://tln.org/conr
The details: Through shared videos, small and large group dialogue and actionable steps, we will have difficult conversations and build capacity for advocacy.

Session 1 (Oct 25): Why has the myth of race as biology persisted and what effect does this have on our own ideas?
Session 2 (Nov 1): How has the idea that race is biology resulted in inequalities in policy and practices throughout US history?
Session 3 (Nov 8): What is structural racism and how have ideas of race shifted to support political and social inequities?
Session 4 (Nov 15): How can Asset Mapping connect our deepest longings, beliefs, talents, contacts and community institutions to build equity and justice for all?

Session content builds each week, therefore it is ideal for participants to attend all sessions if possible.
Free to attend, registration required: www.tln.org/ConR
To learn more about Conversations on Race, click here
FUMC Contact: Suzanne Everett, director of mission and justice engagement

All Saints Day
2025-11-02 09:30 - 12:00 | MI
On All Saints Day, United Methodists publicly remember and honor those who have passed away. Celebrated on the first Sunday in November, we light candles, ring bells of remembrance, and call the names of those lost in the previous year as a way of honoring the impact their lives have had on us.

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Church Conference
2025-11-08 09:30 - 11:30 | First United Methodist Church-Brighton Campus, 400 E Grand River Ave, Brighton, MI, 48116, United States
The annual meeting of the church includes approving leadership nominations, pastor salaries, etc. Everyone is welcome to attend, however only church members may vote on items during the conference. Other district churches will be holding their conferences at that same time.
9:30 am Worship (Sanctuary)
10:15 am Conference

Veteran's Day Observed
2025-11-09 09:30 - 12:00 | First United Methodist Church-Brighton Campus, 400 E Grand River Ave, Brighton, MI, 48116, United States
We honor those who have served this country in the miliary. To have your veteran recognized in the worship service, please send a digital photo along with their name, rank and where they served to photo@brightonfumc.org by Oct. 26.

Hanging of the Greens (WL)
2025-11-23 10:30 - 11:30 | First United Methodist Church-Whitmore Lake Campus, 9318 Main, Whitmore Lake, MI, 48189
Help decorate the church for Advent. Stay after services to help.

10:30-11:30 am at Whitmore Lake Campus

Contact Susan Kimball, susan@brightonfumc.org.

Hanging of the Greens (B)
2025-11-25 10:00 - 12:00 | First United Methodist Church-Brighton Campus, 400 E Grand River Ave, Brighton, MI, 48116, United States
Help decorate the church for Advent. Many hands make light work!

10 am at the Brighton Campus

Contact Susan (Snow) Kimball, susan@brightonfumc.org.

Ring the Bell for Salvation Army
2025-11-29 09:15 - 19:15 | Kroger, 9968 E Grand River Ave, Brighton, MI, 48116, United States
Ring in the holiday season with cheer and generosity. First United Methodist Church volunteers will be bell ringers at Salvation Army “red kettle” sites on Nov. 29 and Dec. 6. SIGN UP or Contact Bob Hemphill.

Caroling at Regency Whitmore Lake
2025-12-14 13:00 - 14:00 | Regency at Whitmore Lake, 8633 Main St, Whitmore Lake, MI, 48189, United States
Each Sunday throughout Advent, you’re invited to explore Wesley’s means of grace and “do some good” through hands-on mission projects. On Sunday, Dec. 14, meet at Regency at Whitmore Lake at 1 pm to sing carols for the residents.

Christmas Party (Youth)
2025-12-17 18:00 - 19:30 | The Well, Brighton Campus, 400 E. Grand River Ae, Brighton, MI, 48116, United States
Bring a friend and enjoy a festive, fun night of Christmas joy! You can count on cocoa, cookies, games, and maybe even a surprise or two!
Contact lindsey@brightonfumc.org

Caroling - Brighton
2025-12-21 12:30 - 14:30 | First United Methodist Church-Brighton Campus, 400 E Grand River Ave, Brighton, MI, 48116, United States
Each Sunday throughout Advent, you’re invited to explore Wesley’s means of grace and “do some good” through hands-on mission projects. On Sunday, Dec. 21, meet at the Brighton Campus at 12:30 to depart in groups to carol for homebound parishioners. If you worship at 11 am and want to go caroling, we’ll have a light lunch. Sign up on your connection card or email Susan Kimball, Director of Music.

Caroling at Greenfield Village
2025-12-21 17:15 - 21:30 | Greenfield Village
You are invited to sing Christmas carols with the church choir at Holiday Nights in Greenfield Village. Christmas caroling is a wonderful way to enjoy the holiday spirit. Each caroler enters the event for free PLUS, we receive an extra free ticket for each caroling participant! Sign up with Susan (with the total of singers and guests) as soon as you are able so we can reserve tickets. We usually have extra guest tickets, so invite a friend!

Christmas Eve Worship 11am, 5pm, 7pm, 9pm
2025-12-24 11:00 - 12:00 | First United Methodist Church-Brighton Campus, 400 E Grand River Ave, Brighton, MI, 48116, United States
Bring your family and friends for a meaningful service to hear the Christmas Story, celebrate Holy Communion, enjoy Christmas music, candle lighting, and fellowship.
Brighton Campus
11 am – Worship designed for young children and their families
5 pm – Band-led Worship
7 pm*– Worship with handbells and choir
9 pm – Worship with handbells and choir
*7 pm Service Livestreamed on YouTube and Facebook

Child-Centered Morning Worship

The 11 am service is not just child-friendly, it’s child-centered! As you enter the worship space, children will be invited to wear a nativity costume and participate from their seats with their families. They may even recognize some of their preschool or Sunday school teachers who are part of the storytelling! Following the service, we’ll sing “happy birthday” to Jesus and enjoy birthday cupcakes!

Christmas Eve Worship 11 am
2025-12-24 11:00 - 12:00 | First United Methodist Church-Brighton Campus, 400 E Grand River Ave, Brighton, MI, 48116, United States
The 11 am service is not just child-friendly, it’s child-centered! As you enter the worship space, children will be invited to wear a nativity costume and participate from their seats with their families. They may even recognize some of their preschool or Sunday school teachers who are part of the storytelling! Following the service, we’ll sing “happy birthday” to Jesus and enjoy birthday cupcakes!
Looking for an evening service?
Please see the details for the 5 pm, 7 pm and 9 pm Christmas Eve Worship Services

Christmas Eve Worship 2 pm (Whitmore Lake Campus)
2025-12-24 14:00 - 15:00 | First United Methodist Church-Whitmore Lake Campus, 9318 Main, Whitmore Lake, MI, 48189
Bring your family and friends for a meaningful service to hear the Christmas Story, celebrate Holy Communion, enjoy Christmas music, candle lighting, and fellowship.

Caroling Singalong
2025-12-28 10:00 - 11:30 | First United Methodist Church-Brighton Campus, 400 E Grand River Ave, Brighton, MI, 48116, United States
The songs of the Christmas season not only stir our memories and fill our hearts with joy, they tell the story of Jesus’ birth in a way that connects us deeply to the birth of our Lord and savior, Jesus Christ. Sing along with Susan Kimball. Following the service stay and enjoy fellowship with a festive brunch. Everyone welcome!
Contact Donna Dibert to help with the brunch.
Note: Only one worship service on Dec. 28 at the Brighton Campus at 10 am. No Whitmore Lake Campus service.

Fish & Loaves Community Dinner
2025-12-28 17:00 - 18:00 | First United Methodist Church-Brighton Campus, 400 E Grand River Ave, Brighton, MI, 48116, United States
Fish and Loaves is a free community meal in Brighton provided by local churches. First UMC – Brighton Campus hosts the dine-in meal on these 2026 dates: Feb. 22, April 26, June 28, Aug. 23, Oct. 25, Dec. 27. You do not need a reservation. We look forward to seeing you.
2026 JUN-DEC FISH AND LOAVES SCHEDULE 2

Volunteers and food donations are welcome.
Contact Deborah Scharp.
Consider helping in one of these ways:

3:30 pm Set tables, set up coffee station, prep food
5 pm Serve food, visit with guests
5:30 pm Dishwashing
Sign Up to provide: desserts, rolls and salads (or purchase food and turn in receipts for reimbursement)

Fish and Loaves is coordinated by Love INC and serves all who come seeking food and fellowship.

Parent Night Out
2026-01-09 17:30 - 19:30 | First United Methodist Church-Brighton Campus, 400 E Grand River Ave, Brighton, MI, 48116, United States
Parents, enjoy an evening out while your kids have a blast! Cost is free. Sign up to reserve your spot today — space is limited!

Register Online

Youth are welcome to volunteer!

Welcome Statement Listening Session (Brighton Campus)
2026-01-11 13:00 - 14:00 | First United Methodist Church-Brighton Campus, 400 E Grand River Ave, Brighton, MI, 48116, United States
Part of our Strategic Plan “Goal 6” is to develop a welcome or belonging statement that quickly lets people know if they would be welcomed and included in the ministries of First UMC as they are searching for a church home.
Please complete an online questionnaire (available Jan. 4-11) — paper forms will also be available.
And attend one of three listening sessions provide your constructive feedback to help the welcome statement team gain valuable insight to craft language that feels appropriate for our church.

Sunday, Jan. 11 @ 1 pm, Brighton Campus
Tuesday, Jan. 20 @ 6 pm, Zoom link
Sunday, Feb. 2 @ 10:15 am, Whitmore Lake Campus

Listening Session-Youth Sunday School
2026-01-18 12:00 - 13:00 | First United Methodist Church-Brighton Campus, 400 E Grand River Ave, Brighton, MI, 48116, United States
Youth in grades sixth through 12th (and their parents/guardians) are invited to a listening session as we dream and imagine what a youth Sunday school class could look and feel like. Your feedback is welcome!

MLK Day of Service
2026-01-19 | First United Methodist Church-Brighton Campus, 400 E Grand River Ave, Brighton, MI, 48116, United States
Monday, Jan. 19, 2026 marks the 40th anniversary of Martin Luther King Day as a federal holiday and 31 years as a national day of service — a “Day On, Not a Day Off.”
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You’re invited to give your time in service in one of these partner projects (space is limited, please sign up in advance):

Food Pantry Volunteer, 8:15-11 am (Whitmore Lake Area Human Services)

Help stock food and create toiletry bags for clients. Families welcome (Children 5 and older with their adult) Whitmore Lake Area Human Services Food Pantry, 9075 Brookside Dr, Whitmore Lake, MI 48189

Kitchen Volunteer, 1-4 pm (Cass Community Social Services)

Help in the kitchen at Cass Community Social Services. Families welcome (ages 10+ with their adult). 11850 Woodrow Wilson, Detroit

Signup Online
Contact Suzanne Everett
Note: the church building is closed Jan. 19, 2026, for the holiday. Meet at the locations listed above.

Welcome Statement Listening Session (Zoom)
2026-01-20 18:00 - 19:00 | zoom
Zoom Link
Part of our Strategic Plan “Goal 6” is to develop a welcome or belonging statement that quickly lets people know if they would be welcomed and included in the ministries of First UMC as they are searching for a church home.
Please complete an online questionnaire (available Jan. 4-11) — paper forms will also be available.
And attend one of three listening sessions provide your constructive feedback to help the welcome statement team gain valuable insight to craft language that feels appropriate for our church.

Sunday, Jan. 11 @ 1 pm, Brighton Campus
Tuesday, Jan. 20 @ 6 pm, Zoom link
Sunday, Feb. 2 @ 10:15 am, Whitmore Lake Campus

Blood Drive - CANCELLED
2026-01-26 12:00 - 18:00 | First United Methodist Church-Brighton Campus, 400 E Grand River Ave, Brighton, MI, 48116, United States
Update Jan. 26, 1 pm: The Red Cross has cancelled today’s blood drive due to staff issues related to the weather/school closings.
You can give the gift of life at the Red Cross Blood Drive. Create your blood donation appointment directly with the Red Cross. Walk ins welcome up to 5:45 pm.

The need for blood is constant and only volunteer donors can fulfill that need for patients in our community. Nationwide, someone needs a unit of blood every 2 to 3 seconds and most of us will need blood in our lifetime.

Volunteers (and cookies) are needed on the day of the drive, contact Kara Shuell or use the sign up form below.
Signup Genius for Volunteers

Preschool Open House
2026-01-26 17:00 - 19:30 | First United Methodist Church-Brighton Campus, 400 E Grand River Ave, Brighton, MI, 48116, United States
First Steps Preschool 2026-27 Pre-Registration Open House: Meet the teachers, tour the classrooms, and learn more about what makes First Steps Preschool an amazing choice for your child’s preschool education.

First Steps Preschool is a nonprofit, creatively-oriented, Christian preschool located inside First United Methodist Church-Brighton Campus. Our half-day programs offer a wide range of engaging activities to spark the social, emotional, physical and intellectual growth of 2-, 3- and 4-year-old children. Families appreciate our small class sizes that promote individualized attention and our outstanding teaching staff!

You do not need to be a member of this or any church to participate.

Haiti Fundraiser Dinner
2026-01-27 18:00 | First United Methodist Church-Brighton Campus, 400 E Grand River Ave, Brighton, MI, 48116, United States
You can help plant seeds of hope in Haiti! The Michigan Conference churches voted in 2025 to support this state-wide campaign to transform communities in Haiti through sustainable agriculture, education, and healthcare initiatives.
Come for a simple dinner and inspiring program by Rev. Tiffany Newsom, chair of Mi Haiti Partnership. Your RSVP below is helpful (though not required). Everyone welcome!
By supporting this cause, you provide vital resources that empower local farmers, educate children, and enhance healthcare access. Together, we can build a brighter future for Haitian families, fostering resilience and sustainable growth.

This campaign supports the Michigan Conference Commitment to the People of Haiti and three important EngageMI partners; Grace Children’s Hospital, HAPI – Haitian Assets for Peace International, and Jeremie Rising—nurturing a “healthy field” for lasting change. Half of all donations also empower local leaders through a new partner, Grassroots Community Voices Foundation (MUSO). Learn about these partners – Planting Hope in Haiti.

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