What to Expect

Welcome!

Our goal is to make your first visit feel like you’ve come home—because you truly have! Below is a brief overview of what you can expect as a guest at Birmingham First. We’re excited to have you here!

What to Wear

God’s house welcomes all, with no dress code required. Whether you prefer denim, dresses, or suits, you’ll find worshipers in a variety of attire at our traditional services. Wear whatever makes you feel comfortable as you join us in worship.

Parking

The main parking lot is located at the back of the building, accessible from Pleasant Street. Designated visitor spaces are conveniently situated near the Main Entrance. For those with limited mobility, parking is available along the Christian Life Center and at the far northwest corner of the main lot. Additionally, a limited number of handicap-accessible spaces can be found in front of the building off Pleasant Street.

Entering the Church Building

Sunday morning greeters are here to ensure everyone who enters our doors feels welcome. They are available to guide you to the sanctuary or Christian Life Center and provide information about Sunday School for all ages. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to ask. If the greeter doesn’t have the answer, they will happily direct you to someone who does.

The Worship Experience

Upon entering the sanctuary, you will be greeted by our ushers, who will provide you with an Order of Worship and guide you to your preferred seat. During the service, a Friendship Pad will be passed, inviting all worshipers to record their presence. We encourage you to take a moment to sign it, allowing us to extend a personal greeting after the service and send a welcome note in the coming week.

You will also hear an announcement about our Welcome Center, where first-time visitors are invited to receive a special gift and learn more about this church community.

Babies, Children and Youth

Sunday is our “Main Event,” and we look forward to welcoming you each week! Our goal is for children to engage with scripture in meaningful and interactive ways, bringing it to life beyond study. We provide nursery care for children from birth to 4 years old and Sunday School for ages 3 through 12th grade.

Welcome Center

Have questions or need more information? Visit the Welcome Center, conveniently located just outside the sanctuary doors. Staffed by a knowledgeable church member, it serves as a helpful resource for both guests and members. Here, you can find brochures about Methodism and learn more about our church programs and activities. First-time guests are encouraged to stop by for additional information and a warm welcome.

What Happens After Church

Come into Fellowship Hall and enjoy a cup of coffee while you explore the wide range of activities available each week. Be sure to visit the kiosk to discover the best ways to connect with the vibrant community at Birmingham First.

Questions?

Email our Church Office at office@fumcbirmingham.org,
or call 248-646-1200

Chelsea-Rose Jabboori

My name is Chelsea-Rose and I am excited to be teaching in the Turquoise Room.  This is my first year teaching at First Kids.  I have many years of experience in child care and as a nanny.  I started my education with OCC and finished my CDA with TeachStone.

I come from a large family.  I am the oldest of six siblings.  We had many wonderful adventures over the years, traveling to most of the United States and some of Canada.  I have a love for nature and adventure.  I really enjoy long road trips, outdoor activities and camping.  I am an artist who enjoys painting, poetry and doing crafts.  I love to study children’s psychology and herbology.  With gentle guidance and compassion, I encourage children to explore and learn.  Children have always been my passion in life.

I am an active member of Berkley First and am happy to now be connected with Birmingham First.

I am looking forward to learning and growing with your children this school year.

Brooke Lynch

My name is Brooke Lynch, and I am excited to be your child’s classroom teacher!  This is my fourth year as a parent at First Kids Preschool and I look forward to joining the teaching staff this year.  I have a bachelor’s degree in early childhood education from Miami University.  I taught first grade for seven years in Chicago.  I then worked for five years as Director of Operations for a charter school management company here in Michigan.  I decided to take some time off from work once my husband Joe and I welcomed our third baby.  After two years at home with Kyle (6), Grace (4), and Griffin (2) I am thrilled to return to the classroom.  First Kids is such a special place and I feel so honored to now be part of the community as both a teacher and parent.  I can’t wait to partner with you to provide a wonderful year of fun and learning for your child!

Jillian McDonald

My name is Jillian McDonald and I am thrilled to be teaching in the Green/Orange Room.  This will be my first year teaching at First Kids Preschool.  Previously, I taught three and four-year-old preschool in the Birmingham Public Schools for six years.  Before that, I was a first grade teacher in Detroit.  Between teaching positions, I took time off to raise my three children, Madelynn, Riley and Delaney.  Madelynn and Riley are twins and will be starting their first year of college in the fall.  My daughter, Delaney will be a senior at Groves High School.  In my free time I enjoy spending time with my family, traveling, reading, and going to my cottage in Northern Michigan.  I am so excited to be working with the four-year-olds.  As an early childhood educator, I love to make my students’ first experiences with school very memorable.  I enjoy helping them build their independence and self-confidence.  I like to encourage the building of a classroom community to promote social skills and conflict resolution.  I am so happy to begin this journey of learning with you and your child!

Gloria Fulton

My name is Gloria Fulton, and I am very excited to be teaching at First Kids Preschool.  I also work in childcare for Children and Family Ministries at Birmingham First United Methodist Church.  I am a member of the Garden of Faith Missionary Baptist Church where I currently teach Sunday school and assist with the youth choir.  For two years, I was co-leader of the Brownie troop at Upton Elementary, where my daughter attended school.  I have a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Central Michigan University and am currently working towards my Child Development Associate.  I  enjoy miniature golf, walking, traveling, and spending time with my family.