After the waiting and wondering, the moment is here. In a quiet manger, on a holy night, grace has come. Join us as we celebrate the birth of Jesus, the ultimate gift of love and light in a weary world.
Below, you’ll find our Christmas schedule and festive gatherings. We look forward to welcoming you and your loved ones as we worship and rejoice in this extraordinary gift of grace!
Christmas Eve Worship
Tuesday, December 24
- 11:00 a.m. Children and Family Service | Rev. Zack L. Dunlap | In-person & Online
- 2:00 p.m. Carols & Candlelight with Genesis and IXOYC Choirs | Rev. Dr. Charles Boayue, Jr. | In-person & Online | Nursery Care is Available
- 7:00 p.m. Carols & Candlelight with Chancel Choir| Rev. Dr. Charles Boayue, Jr. | In-person & Online
- 9:00 p.m. Carols & Candlelight with Alumni Choir | Rev. Dr. Charles Boayue, Jr. | In-person & Online
- 11:00 p.m. Carols & Candlelight with Cantus Ensemble | Rev. Dr. Charles Boayue, Jr. | In-person Only
This Christmas Eve, embrace the warmth of a timeless tradition. Celebrate the birth of Christ with beloved carols, the glow of candlelight, and a message of hope and joy. Experience the wonder and peace of this holy night—you are welcome here!
Tuesday, December 24: Children’s Christmas Eve Service
Preacher: Rev. Zack L. Dunlap
Service Time: 11:00 a.m. in-person & online
Join us for a joyful family-friendly service where children and families of all ages are warmly invited! Experience the story of Jesus’s birth as the Nativity scene comes alive before your eyes. The audience will have interactive moments, and each child can choose to be an angel, shepherd, or king to play their part. Expect cheerful sounds and joyful carol singing! Please note that nursery care will not be available, as all children, from birth to adult, are welcome to attend together.
Journey Through Advent with Us!
This Advent season, deepen your faith and rediscover the joy of Christ’s coming with our heartfelt devotional collection. Each reflection invites you to pause, reflect, and embrace the hope, peace, and love that the season brings. Download the full PDF by clicking the button below, or pick up one of the limited print copies available in the church office. Let these devotionals guide you through the weeks leading up to Christmas as we celebrate the greatest gift of all—our Savior’s birth.
More Christmas Gatherings
This is JOY, benefit concert for Cass Community Social Services
Friday, December 13 at 7:00 p.m.
Benefit concert for Cass Community Social Services. Celebrate the incredible joy of the season with gospel, jazz, and traditional carols–featuring Alvin Waddles, Dave McMurray, and many more of Detroit’s finest musicians. Message by Rev. Faith Fowler. A truly extraordinary evening!
Heralds of Christmas
Sunday, December 15 at 3:00 p.m.
Experience the full breadth of our music ministry at this beloved annual concert, featuring all of our choirs! From the voices of our 3-year-old Cherub choir to our Chancel Choir, and from the sounds of bells to the mighty organ, this concert is sure to fill your heart with Christmas joy.
Christmas Town
Sunday, December 15 from 4:00-5:30 p.m.
Children and families are invited to celebrate the season with hot chocolate, kettle corn, a petting zoo, crafts, Storytime, and a visit from Santa! This festive fun on the front lawn is immediately following the Heralds of Christmas concert.
Service of Hope
Monday, December 16 at 7:00 p.m.
In the midst of the holiday cheer, this service offers a moment to pause, reflect, and find peace in the season. It’s a chance to acknowledge the challenges some may face during this time. We come together in search of calm and hope, remembering the Light that entered our world in Bethlehem.
Wednesday, December 25
There are no services scheduled at Birmingham First on Christmas Day. We look forward to seeing you on Sunday, December 29 for worship at 9:30 a.m. and 11:00 a.m.
AFTER CHRISTMAS
Sunday, December 29
On December 29, we are glad to welcome divinity student Gabriel Ervin to the pulpit as the guest preacher. Gabe is a familiar face around Birmingham First. He was raised in this church, has served as a liturgist, and has spoken many times. This will be his first time in the pulpit here. We know you won’t want to miss his reflections on the Nativity of Jesus and the events that followed. Worship is at 9:30 and 11:00.
Sunday, January 5
Begin the new year with worship at 9:30 a.m. (in-person and online) or 11:00 a.m. (in-person). Rev. Dr. Charles Boayue, Jr. will deliver an inspiring sermon to guide us into the year ahead. Join us for a time of prayer, song, and renewed hope as we journey into the new year together.
WHAT TO EXPECT
We’re glad you’re considering a visit to Birmingham First! From the moment you arrive, you’ll find a welcoming atmosphere designed to help you feel at home. Click the button below to learn more about what to expect during your visit!
CHRISTMAS EVE FOR CHILDREN
The Children’s Christmas Eve Service is at 11:00 a.m.
Nursery Care is available at 2:00 p.m.
Children are welcome and encouraged to attend any of our worship services. Coloring books and activities can be found in the back of the church. Please ask one of the ushers and they’ll be happy to assist you.
WAYS TO GIVE
God’s spirit is moving among us empowering life-changing ministries here and around the world! As we end 2024, a strong financial finish to the year will enable us to begin 2025 well positioned to move into all that God has in store for us.
