First United Methodist Church-Brighton & Whitmore Lake
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Small Groups and Classes

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 Path. Consider how you can grow in your practices through study, worship, service, prayer, stewardship, fellowship and invitation.

REGISTER for CLASSES

Click on the purple tabs to find differing opportunities on the discipleship path.

Study

Wednesday Study Group (B)

Wednesdays, 9:30 – 11:00 am

Take part in a deeper discussion of a book or study selected by the group.
Led by Sue Urban.

You Are Here: Understanding Race & Racism (Brighton)

Wednesdays, 6-7:30 pm (hybrid)

This seven-part study from GCORR (General Commission on Religion & Race) is a first step in understanding what racism is, how it has and still shows up in the church and in society, and how it impacts and impedes the integrity and effectiveness of God’s people gathered as the church.  Join us to explore how people of faith can begin to recognize and address racism. Sponsored by the Anti-Bias/Anti-Racism Project, Church & Society Committee. Contact Kara Shuell or Steve Dorer. Runs Jan. 8-Feb. 19.

Disciple Bible Study (Brighton)

Wednesdays, 7:00-8:30 pm

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 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 Deacon Loretta Job and Larry Job. Runs Jan. 15-April 3

Small Group (B)

Wednesdays, 7:00-8:30 pm

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)

Wednesdays, 7:00-8:30 pm

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 (B)

Thursdays, 1 pm

Discussions lead to discoveries about ourselves and our faith as we connect with each other. Contact Anne Walters or Joann Schmidt. Ongoing.

Prayer Class (B)

Thursdays, 2 pm

Contact Rick Rykowski. Runs Feb. 6-March 13.

Launching Leaders (B)

Thursdays, 6 pm

Do you feel called to make a greater impact in your church, community or workplace? Take a transformative journey through Kay Kotan’s book Launching Leaders. This class will equip you with practical tools, spiritual insights, and proven strategies to step confidently into your leadership potential. Whether you’re new to leadership or looking to refine your skills, this course will empower you to lead with purpose and passion. Led by Rev. Jon Reynolds. Runs Jan. 9-30.

Lent & Advent Studies (B)

Interested in participating in the church-wide Advent and Lent studies? Join a Sunday study group for this very purpose!

Sundays during Lent and Advent

Membership Class (B)

Is Joining the Church Your Next Step?

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 April and September). 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

Ongoing Groups

Craft & Praise (B)

Second Fridays, monthly, 6:30 pm

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.

Men of Faith (B)

Saturdays, 9-10:30 am

Fellowship and conversation — often over donuts. Ongoing – join anytime. Contact Bruce Stark

Young Adult Group (B)

Sundays at 6 pm

Individuals and couples in their twenties and thirties gather for fellowship and conversation. Ongoing – join anytime. Contact Jon Reynolds

Nature Nuts (O)

Various Monthly Outings
Code L4

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)

Schedule varies

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:

Men’s League: May – August, Tuesday or Thursday Evenings, 6:45pm start.
Women’s League: May – August, Monday Evenings, 6:45pm start.
Co-Ed League: July – October, Sunday Afternoons, 2:30pm start.

Worship

Music Ministry

Adult Choir, Worship Band, Bell Choir, Special Music … Learn More

Liturgists

Liturgists participate in Sunday worship by leading the opening prayer and reading scripture. Contact Kelly Myers.

Worship Hosts

Worship hosts are lay servants who participate in Sunday worship by leading the congregational prayer. Contact Susan (Snow) Kimball.

Tech Board and Video Production

We 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.

Service

Men With Tools (B)

Tuesdays, 9:00 am Ongoing

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)

Mondays, 6:00 – 8:00 pm, Ongoing

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)

Mondays, 9 am – 12 pm

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)

Thursdays 9:30 – 11 am, Ongoing

Experience the power of prayer by praying for the needs of the congregation and community. Contact Mary Ray.

Mission Outreach

There are many ways to participate in Serving God through First United Methodist Church! Find one or more that speaks to you!

Hospitality

Ushers

Welcome worshipers and assist people to be seated. Assist with offering and communion. Coordinated by Bruce Stark – and Mike & Laura Kelly.

Greeters

Greet Sunday morning worshippers at the entrance to the church – 20 minutes before worship to 10 minutes after
worship begins. Coordinated by Maggie Shrier.

Sunday Morning Fellowship Time

Help host coffee hour. Brighton Campus coordinated by Deb de Laski-Smith

Sanctuary Guild (B/W)

Place information in the sanctuary for worship. Coordinated by Karen Wagg – karen@brightonfumc.org.

Children’s Busy Bags

Fill Busy Bags with quiet activities for children in worship.
Coordinated by Karen Wagg – karen@brightonfumc.org.

Volunteer Office Assistants

Be part of the team that helps with mailings and other office tasks. Contact Wendy Carmack, wendy@brightonfumc.org.

REGISTER for CLASSES & GROUPS

Step 1: Take Your Discipleship Inventory

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.

Step 2: Review these small group and class offerings

When you’ve picked your groups, click the blue button to register for all the groups you want to participate in or call the office 810-229-8561.
Group leaders will contact you in advance.
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