The church office and Child Development Center will be closed on Monday, September 7 in observance of Labor Day.
Join your friends from Highlands for a movie night! We will visit local independent movie theater, Sidewalk Cinema in the basement of the The Pizitz Food Hall downtown, for Mary Oliver: Saved By the Beauty of the World. Choose from two screening times – Wednesday, September 9 at 6:15 pm or Thursday, September 10 at 4:45 pm. Parking is available at metered spaces on the street or at The Pizitz parking deck off 18th Street North.
Seating is limited, so advanced ticket purchase is highly recommended!
If poetry had a pop icon, Mary Oliver would be it. Celebrated best-selling poet, Pulitzer Prize-winner, lover of dogs and long walks in the woods, openly queer but intensely private, Oliver was America’s unlikely contemporary mystic, stalking the ponds and forests of Cape Cod for nearly fifty years in order to open herself – and her readers – to the known and unknowable world. From a lonely childhood to literary fame, Oliver’s life was shaped by devotion to nature, paying attention, and the long journey toward learning to love and to be loved. Her poems inspire liberals and conservatives, atheists and believers, naturalists and urbanites, speaking directly to contemporary anxieties about attention, presence, and the human relationship with the natural world – issues that feel especially pressing in an era of climate crisis, digital distraction, and social fragmentation. Featuring interviews with her close friends, including John Waters, never-before-seen personal photos, notebooks, and correspondence from her archive, and recitations of her work by Stephen Colbert, Lucy Dacus, Steve Buscemi, and Oprah Winfrey, Mary Oliver: Saved by the Beauty of the World considers the poet’s long lifetime of work in context, capturing the uniqueness of her world and the natural beauty that inspired her.
*All Wednesday screenings are captioned if made available by the distributor.
*Films will usually have an average of 8-10 minutes of trailers before each screening.
*Seating is general admission. Arrive early to screenings if you want to ensure everyone in your group sits together.
*No outside food or beverages. We have a full bar and concessions in the cinema, and anything purchased from there can be taken into the theatre.
Join your friends from Highlands for a movie night! We will visit local independent movie theater, Sidewalk Cinema in the basement of the The Pizitz Food Hall downtown, for Mary Oliver: Saved By the Beauty of the World. Choose from two screening times – Wednesday, September 9 at 6:15 pm or Thursday, September 10 at 4:45 pm. Parking is available at metered spaces on the street or at The Pizitz parking deck off 18th Street North.
Seating is limited, so advanced ticket purchase is highly recommended!
If poetry had a pop icon, Mary Oliver would be it. Celebrated best-selling poet, Pulitzer Prize-winner, lover of dogs and long walks in the woods, openly queer but intensely private, Oliver was America’s unlikely contemporary mystic, stalking the ponds and forests of Cape Cod for nearly fifty years in order to open herself – and her readers – to the known and unknowable world. From a lonely childhood to literary fame, Oliver’s life was shaped by devotion to nature, paying attention, and the long journey toward learning to love and to be loved. Her poems inspire liberals and conservatives, atheists and believers, naturalists and urbanites, speaking directly to contemporary anxieties about attention, presence, and the human relationship with the natural world – issues that feel especially pressing in an era of climate crisis, digital distraction, and social fragmentation. Featuring interviews with her close friends, including John Waters, never-before-seen personal photos, notebooks, and correspondence from her archive, and recitations of her work by Stephen Colbert, Lucy Dacus, Steve Buscemi, and Oprah Winfrey, Mary Oliver: Saved by the Beauty of the World considers the poet’s long lifetime of work in context, capturing the uniqueness of her world and the natural beauty that inspired her.
*All Wednesday screenings are captioned if made available by the distributor.
*Films will usually have an average of 8-10 minutes of trailers before each screening.
*Seating is general admission. Arrive early to screenings if you want to ensure everyone in your group sits together.
*No outside food or beverages. We have a full bar and concessions in the cinema, and anything purchased from there can be taken into the theatre.
This fall, make a little room in your Sunday mornings for conversation, curiosity, and community. You don’t have to be a regular Sunday school attendee or have all the answers to join in. Our adult spiritual formation classes are welcoming spaces to ask questions, explore faith, and get to know one another. Join us each Sunday at 9:30 am starting next week! More information at www.highlandsumc.net/sundayschool
Continued Conversation Led by Mikah Hudson in Room 209
For those who want to keep wrestling with the questions that don't have easy answers, this class offers an ongoing space for honest dialogue on faith, culture, and the issues shaping our lives today. Expect thoughtful conversation, differing perspectives held in respect, and room to think out loud together. We will reflect on the lectionary, recent sermons, and timely topics.
Faith & Films Discussion Series Led by Kyle McKinnon in Room 210
A Sunday school discussion around movies that aren’t traditionally categorized as faith-based films. Like a book club, each week we will discuss a different movie, covering themes like humility, restoring relationships, resisting societal norms, and mortality, with an overall focus on finding God’s influence in unexpected places. The films will be All That Heaven Allows (1955), The Straight Story (1999), Perfect Days (2023), and The Life of Chuck (2024).
Civic Virtues: Through the Lens of Christ Led by Mark Chambers in Room 204
Based on Senator Corey Booker’s book, STAND, this class explores ten core civic virtues: agency, vulnerability, patriotism, truth, humility, community, creativity, perseverance, grace, and vision. Each week we will randomly choose a card with a virtue and a few questions based on some of Christ teachings for discussion.
Atrium Resumes - September 13
The Atrium reopens next Sunday, September 13 at 9:30 am. The Atrium is a place of calm, prayer, and wonder, where children are encouraged to nurture their faith in a way that is age appropriate and rooted in the connection that they already have with God. Children age 3 through 5th grade are invited to attend each week throughout the school year. Our catechists are eager to be with our students again!
Renewal Quilt Dedication - September 13
Join us next Sunday, September 13, during 10:30 am worship as we dedicate our Renewal Quilt, a beautiful expression of the stories, hopes, prayers, and shared life of our Highlands community. Woven together piece by piece, square by square, the Renewal Quilt reminds us of our Connectedness in God’s Grace – that each of us is part of something larger than ourselves. Come celebrate the threads that bind us together and the beautiful tapestry God continues to weave among us. All are invited to this special celebration!
United Women in Faith Meeting
Highlands United Women in Faith will meet at the church on Monday, September 14 at 11:00 am. We will be making breakfast casseroles for Community Ministries. Lunch will follow for $12 with reservation.
Contact: Mary Beth Lloyd – mblloyd85@yahoo.com
Lunch RSVP: Suzanne Hoye – srhoye@live.com
Tuesday Bible Study Resumes September 15
Join us on Tuesdays this fall as we dig into scripture together using Disciple Bible Study and Bible Project videos. We'll journey through the Old Testament this fall, continuing into the New Testament this winter and spring, finishing up around Easter. Classes begin at 11:45 am in Room 204, starting September 15. Lunch is available for $12 with reservation. Study manuals are $20/semester. New to the group? You're welcome here!
To reserve your spot and a manual, contact Reggie Holder – reggie@highlandsumc.net.
Lunch RSVP: Suzanne Hoye – srhoye@live.com
Church Council Meeting - September 20
The Church Council will meet on Sunday, September 20 in the Fellowship Hall worship following the Third Sunday Potluck. Church Council meetings are open to everyone; all are welcome to observe our church leadership at work.
Contact: Anne Rand - asrand@yahoo.com
Join us on Tuesdays this fall as we dig into scripture together using Disciple Bible Study and Bible Project videos. We'll journey through the Old Testament this fall, continuing into the New Testament this winter and spring, finishing up around Easter. Classes begin at 11:45 am in Room 204, starting September 15. Lunch is available for $12 with reservation. Study manuals are $20/semester. New to the group? You're welcome here!
To reserve your spot and a manual, contact Reggie Holder – reggie@highlandsumc.net.
Lunch RSVP: Suzanne Hoye – srhoye@live.com
Save the Date: Bishop Holston Preaching at Highlands - September 27
Join us in worship on September 27 for a special and uplifting service as Bishop Jonathan Holston, the bishop of the North Alabama and Alabama-West Florida conferences, will be preaching. This is a wonderful opportunity to come together in fellowship, to listen and be inspired by his powerful message. We warmly invite you to experience this meaningful day with us, and to invite friends to come to church with you.
Join us on Tuesdays this fall as we dig into scripture together using Disciple Bible Study and Bible Project videos. We'll journey through the Old Testament this fall, continuing into the New Testament this winter and spring, finishing up around Easter. Classes begin at 11:45 am in Room 204, starting September 15. Lunch is available for $12 with reservation. Study manuals are $20/semester. New to the group? You're welcome here!
To reserve your spot and a manual, contact Reggie Holder – reggie@highlandsumc.net.
Lunch RSVP: Suzanne Hoye – srhoye@live.com
Join us on Tuesdays this fall as we dig into scripture together using Disciple Bible Study and Bible Project videos. We'll journey through the Old Testament this fall, continuing into the New Testament this winter and spring, finishing up around Easter. Classes begin at 11:45 am in Room 204, starting September 15. Lunch is available for $12 with reservation. Study manuals are $20/semester. New to the group? You're welcome here!
To reserve your spot and a manual, contact Reggie Holder – reggie@highlandsumc.net.
Lunch RSVP: Suzanne Hoye – srhoye@live.com
United Women in Faith Meeting
Highlands United Women in Faith will meet at the church on Monday, October 12 at 11:00 am. Our guest presenter will be Reggie Holder. Lunch will follow for $12 with reservation.
Contact: Mary Beth Lloyd – mblloyd85@yahoo.com
Lunch RSVP: Suzanne Hoye – srhoye@live.com
Join us on Tuesdays this fall as we dig into scripture together using Disciple Bible Study and Bible Project videos. We'll journey through the Old Testament this fall, continuing into the New Testament this winter and spring, finishing up around Easter. Classes begin at 11:45 am in Room 204, starting September 15. Lunch is available for $12 with reservation. Study manuals are $20/semester. New to the group? You're welcome here!
To reserve your spot and a manual, contact Reggie Holder – reggie@highlandsumc.net.
Lunch RSVP: Suzanne Hoye – srhoye@live.com
Join us on Sunday, October 18 to celebrate Halloween Highlands style! Wear your costumes to church and join us following worship for a seasonal fellowship meal and a carnival for the kids. We are in need of baked goods for a cake walk, additional Halloween decorations, and volunteers to help run simple carnival games and distribute prizes during the event. If you are able to help make this day memorable and fun for the children in our church, please contact Mary Elizabeth Neal at maryelizabeth@highlandsumc.net.
Join us on Tuesdays this fall as we dig into scripture together using Disciple Bible Study and Bible Project videos. We'll journey through the Old Testament this fall, continuing into the New Testament this winter and spring, finishing up around Easter. Classes begin at 11:45 am in Room 204, starting September 15. Lunch is available for $12 with reservation. Study manuals are $20/semester. New to the group? You're welcome here!
To reserve your spot and a manual, contact Reggie Holder – reggie@highlandsumc.net.
Lunch RSVP: Suzanne Hoye – srhoye@live.com
Table of Hope is your chance to come together with wonderful neighbors just like you who champion Urban Ministry! During the evening you’ll enjoy dinner, delight in stories told by Rev. Garrett Harper and other neighbors, and hear the stories of resurrection blooming in West End.
You won’t want to miss out on this chance to celebrate Urban Ministry’s work in West End, so claim your place today!
Join us on Tuesdays this fall as we dig into scripture together using Disciple Bible Study and Bible Project videos. We'll journey through the Old Testament this fall, continuing into the New Testament this winter and spring, finishing up around Easter. Classes begin at 11:45 am in Room 204, starting September 15. Lunch is available for $12 with reservation. Study manuals are $20/semester. New to the group? You're welcome here!
To reserve your spot and a manual, contact Reggie Holder – reggie@highlandsumc.net.
Lunch RSVP: Suzanne Hoye – srhoye@live.com
This Solemn Requiem, one of the many jewels in the liturgical crown of worship, begins and ends in silence. In between, glorious music, full of yearning and hope, fills the church and our hearts as we remember all those who have gone before us.
Join us on Tuesdays this fall as we dig into scripture together using Disciple Bible Study and Bible Project videos. We'll journey through the Old Testament this fall, continuing into the New Testament this winter and spring, finishing up around Easter. Classes begin at 11:45 am in Room 204, starting September 15. Lunch is available for $12 with reservation. Study manuals are $20/semester. New to the group? You're welcome here!
To reserve your spot and a manual, contact Reggie Holder – reggie@highlandsumc.net.
Lunch RSVP: Suzanne Hoye – srhoye@live.com
Church Council Meeting - November 8
The Church Council will meet on Sunday, November 8 in the Fellowship Hall worship following the Third Sunday Potluck. Church Council meetings are open to everyone; all are welcome to observe our church leadership at work.
Contact: Anne Rand - asrand@yahoo.com
United Women in Faith Meeting
Highlands United Women in Faith will meet at the church on Monday, November 9 at 11:00 am for our annual meeting. Lunch will follow for $12 with reservation.
Contact: Mary Beth Lloyd – mblloyd85@yahoo.com
Lunch RSVP: Suzanne Hoye – srhoye@live.com
Join us on Tuesdays this fall as we dig into scripture together using Disciple Bible Study and Bible Project videos. We'll journey through the Old Testament this fall, continuing into the New Testament this winter and spring, finishing up around Easter. Classes begin at 11:45 am in Room 204, starting September 15. Lunch is available for $12 with reservation. Study manuals are $20/semester. New to the group? You're welcome here!
To reserve your spot and a manual, contact Reggie Holder – reggie@highlandsumc.net.
Lunch RSVP: Suzanne Hoye – srhoye@live.com
The church office and Child Development Center will be closed on Wednesday, November 11 in observance of Veteran's Day. Highlands thanks our veterans for their service, and wishes everyone a safe and happy holiday.
Join us on Tuesdays this fall as we dig into scripture together using Disciple Bible Study and Bible Project videos. We'll journey through the Old Testament this fall, continuing into the New Testament this winter and spring, finishing up around Easter. Classes begin at 11:45 am in Room 204, starting September 15. Lunch is available for $12 with reservation. Study manuals are $20/semester. New to the group? You're welcome here!
To reserve your spot and a manual, contact Reggie Holder – reggie@highlandsumc.net.
Lunch RSVP: Suzanne Hoye – srhoye@live.com
United Women In Faith Bake Sale
Cookies, cakes and pies, oh my! United Women in Faith (UMW) are holding a bake sale before and after worship service on November 22. The proceeds will support UMW local missions projects. Payment by cash, check, or Venmo accepted. If you’d like to contribute baked goods to the sale, please contact TBD.
The Reverend Mikah Hudson, Preaching
Richard Phillips, Choirmaster & Organist
Ryan Morrison, Piper
The church office, Child Development Center, and Community Ministries will be closed Thursday and Friday, November 26-27 for Thanksgiving. We wish you a safe and happy holiday.
Charge Conference - December 6
Our charge conference will be December 6 in the Fellowship Hall at 5 pm. The Reverend Dr. Mary Henley, our district superintendent, will be with us to conduct the meeting. All members of the church council are strongly encouraged to attend; all members of the church are invited. Please RSVP for dinner by Wednesday, December 2.
RSVP: Michelle Jones – michelle@highlandsumc.net
Contact: Anne Rand - asrand@yahoo.com
United Women in Faith Meeting
Highlands United Women in Faith will meet at the church on Monday, December 14 at 11:00 am for our Christmas party. More details to come.
Contact: Mary Beth Lloyd – mblloyd85@yahoo.com
Lunch RSVP: Suzanne Hoye – srhoye@live.com
The church office will be closed Christmas on December 25. We wish you a safe and happy holiday.
For Christmas Eve service information, click here.
For information on helping with our Community Holiday Breakfast, contact Danny Jones.
The church office will be closed on January 1, 2027 for New Year’s Day. We wish you a safe and happy holiday.
There will be no Sunday School classes or Atrium next Sunday, September 6 during Labor Day Weekend. The Nursery will open at 10:15 am.
Ministry Fair - August 30
Come discover the many ways to connect, serve, grow, and make a difference at Highlands! On Sunday, August 30 during the Sunday School hour, our Ministry Fair will showcase meaningful opportunities in worship, compassion, welcoming, and growing ministries. Join us in the Fellowship Hall at 9:30 am—and invite a friend to come explore with you!
Need a break? Join the women of Highlands for a relaxed social gathering at Panera Bread in Vestavia Hills on Tuesday, August 25 at 7:00 pm. No agenda, no book to read – just friends fellowshipping together.
Contact: Lauri Soong – laurisoong@hotmail.com
During the summer months, our Third Sunday Potlucks become Third Sunday Cook Outs! Join us on Sunday, August 16 for great food and warm fellowship. We’ll provide the cook-out favorites; the congregation is asked to bring sides and desserts. All are welcome and invited!
Contact: Michelle Jones – michelle@highlandsumc.net
Bring A Friend Sunday - August 16
It is a wonderful time to invite friends to come with you to church! We invite you to bring a friend, neighbor, or co-worker to Sunday school and worship on Sunday, August 16. All are welcome! Invite your friends to experience the warmth of God's loving community here at Highlands and to experience the beauty of our worship, and stay after for our Third Sunday Potluck. Let's all extend our love into the community by welcoming friends and neighbors to Highlands!
United Women in Faith Meeting
Highlands United Women in Faith will meet at the church on Tuesday, August 11 at 11:00 am. We will meet for lunch and fellowship at the Birmingham Botanical Gardens Cafe. RSVPs are requested.
Contact: Mary Beth Lloyd – mblloyd85@yahoo.com
Lunch RSVP: Suzanne Hoye – srhoye@live.com
As summer approaches and folks return home from school or work, we want to extend a warm invitation to college students and young adults to join us for a bi-monthly meal and fellowship gathering. It’s the perfect opportunity to reconnect with old friends, make new ones, and share in a time of reflection and spiritual growth. Gatherings will include a delicious meal, time for catching up with each other, and a short devotional to inspire and encourage you as you navigate this season of life. We believe that community is essential for growth and support, and we would love for you to be a part of ours.
Contact: Reggie Holder – reggie@highlandsumc.net.
Meeting Schedule and Locations:
Monday, June 1 – Top Golf Outing, hosted by The Soong Family
Wednesday, July 15 – The Harper-Holder Family
Monday, August 10 – The Rand Family
One Sunday each month, our children, youth and adults will gather together during Sunday School for Heart and Hand Sundays, where we will work together on service projects for our church and community. This inter-generational time of service will start with refreshments and a short devotional suitable for all ages. Join us at 9:30 a.m. in the Fellowship Hall
Back Ministries - August 9
You are invited to join us during the Sunday School hour on Sunday, August 9th, to help prepare bags of weekend food for local students. These students receive free breakfasts and lunches each school day, but are food insecure on weekends. This year, we hope to pack about 740 bags per month and deliver them to Glen Iris Elementary School, Midfield Elementary School, and Rutledge Middle School. Counselors will discreetly place the bags in their backpacks every Friday afternoon, which is why this is called the backpack ministry. Each bag contains at least 12 items of nonperishable food.
In addition to packing at church throughout the year, you can make a monetary donation by going to the church website to the giving option and dropping down to backpack ministry. We also pack at Midfield Elementary about every 3 weeks, usually on a Wednesday from 9:30 to 11:00. If you would like to be on the email list to be notified when we are packing at Midfield, please contact Cathy Ivey at cathycivey@gmail.com or 205-903-9311.
Donation Items:
- boxes of Mac and cheese (not microwaveable type)
- canned tuna or chicken
- cans of soup like chicken noodle or chicken & rice
- individual packets of instant grits
- individual packets of instant oatmeal
- nutrigrain bars (no nuts)
- squeezable packets of applesauce
- cans of spaghetti-o’s or ravioli
Join us for our annual back-to-school tradition! All students may bring their backpacks to worship for a moment of blessing and prayer for another great school year. Teachers and childcare givers are invited to take part as well.
Youth Weekend - July 31–August 3
Youth Weekend is July 31–August 3! A weekend so big, three days couldn’t hold it! We will be welcoming our rising 6th graders into the youth group with a weekend full of fun! Save the date and bring a friend! More information below.
Contact Danny Jones – danny@highlandsumc.net
Youth Weekend Schedule!
It just keeps getting bigger and better.
- Friday Night (July 31): Topgolf, 6:30 to 9 pm
1111 24th St N, Birmingham, AL 35234
The game is our treat. Any food you order is on you.
- Saturday Morning (August 1): Service Project with Grace Klein, 9 to 11 am
Hoover FeedBHM Hub — 2652 Old Rocky Ridge Road, Hoover, AL 35216.
We will be helping this important food rescue ministry. Various projects could include loading/unloading donations, sorting/organizing donations, projects to help them maintain order and keep their processes moving, writing scripture cards, and light work to maintain the workspace. Comfortable clothes that can get dirty and closed-toe shoes are recommended.
- Saturday Afternoon (August 1): Pool Party at the home of Wade, Allison, and Bea Lowery, 4 to 6 pm
2848 Vestavia Forest Dr., Vestavia Hills, AL 35216-2540
- Sunday Morning (August 2): Breakfast at Original Pancake House, 9 am
Across the Five Points South intersection from the church. Please be prompt so that we may order, eat, enjoy our time together, and be finished in time for church at 10:30 am. Our treat!
- Sunday Evening (August 2): Treasure Hunt & Snack Supper, 5 - 7 pm
At the church! And beyond.
The Treasure Hunt is THE one people talk about. Clues, Treasure, Cars (with adult drivers). This.
- Monday Night (August 3): Bowling at Vestavia Bowl, 6:30 to 8:30 pm
1429 Montgomery Highway, Vestavia Hills, AL 35216
The bowling is our treat. Any food is on you.
Join us after worship this Sunday, July 19 for a summer veggie luncheon! PJ Ellis will prepare a feast from locally grown produce to celebrate the abundance of summer. This delicious spread will take the place of our regular Summer Sunday Cook Out, so there's no need to bring sides or desserts.
As summer approaches and folks return home from school or work, we want to extend a warm invitation to college students and young adults to join us for a bi-monthly meal and fellowship gathering. It’s the perfect opportunity to reconnect with old friends, make new ones, and share in a time of reflection and spiritual growth. Gatherings will include a delicious meal, time for catching up with each other, and a short devotional to inspire and encourage you as you navigate this season of life. We believe that community is essential for growth and support, and we would love for you to be a part of ours.
Contact: Reggie Holder – reggie@highlandsumc.net.
Meeting Schedule and Locations:
Monday, June 1 – Top Golf Outing, hosted by The Soong Family
Wednesday, July 15 – The Harper-Holder Family
Monday, August 10 – The Rand Family
Need a break? Join the women of Highlands for a relaxed social gathering at Panera Bread in Vestavia Hills on Tuesday, July 14 at 7:00 pm. No agenda, no book to read – just friends fellowshipping together.
Contact: Lauri Soong – laurisoong@hotmail.com
One Sunday each month, our children, youth and adults will gather together during Sunday School for Heart and Hand Sundays, where we will work together on service projects for our church and community. This inter-generational time of service will start with refreshments and a short devotional suitable for all ages. Join us at 9:30 a.m. in the Fellowship Hall
July 12 - Diaper Drive for Bundles of Hope
This month, Highlands is partnering with our friends at East Lake UMC to support Bundles of Hope, a local diaper bank which cares for the community by meeting the basic, essential, monthly needs of Alabama families. Diaper in all sizes, baby wipes, and period products are needed. Bring items to the Fellowship Hall and help us sort them for delivery.
Upcoming Heart & Hand Sunday:
August 9 - Backpack Ministries (non-perishable food items)
Registration for Highlands’ VBS day camp, July 6-10 is open now! VBS meets Monday-Friday, 9 am to 4 pm, and is open to children age 4 through rising 5th graders, and youth helpers rising 6th graders and older. Registration cost is $100 with a $250 registration cap per family; full or partial scholarships are available.
Adult Volunteers and Youth Counselors will be needed for a variety of tasks, from preparing materials before the event, to providing snacks, to leading small group sessions. There is truly an opportunity for everyone in our congregation! Contact Mary Elizabeth Neal at maryelizabeth@highlandsumc.net for more information.
Join us after worship on July 5 for Hymn Sing Sundae, an ice cream social to celebrate Independence Day Weekend with our church family. Invite your friends and neighbors
Join us on Sunday, July 5 for a Hymn Sing! The singing of hymns is one our oldest Methodist traditions, as we collectively lift our hearts and voices for the worship of God. We will sing our favorite songs of the faith, both old and new. Make plans to join us for worship this week!
There will be no Sunday School classes or Atrium on Sunday, July 5 during Independence Day Weekend. The Nursery will open at 10:15 am.
The church office and Child Development Center will be closed on Friday, July 3 in observance of Independence Day.
CDC Silent Auction - June 26
Get ready for a fun, high-energy evening at Back Forty Brewery as we come together to celebrate and support the children the Highlands Child Development Center on Friday, June 26 from 6:30 to 9:00 pm. Join us for a lively night filled with great food, drinks, and community, all centered around making a meaningful impact. Our silent auction will feature an exciting variety of items, with every bid directly supporting the growth, learning, and daily experiences of the children in our program. Scan the QR code below to purchase your tickets online.
Contact: Will Harper-Hooper – will@highlandsumc.net
Need a break? Join the women of Highlands for a relaxed social gathering at Panera Bread in Vestavia Hills on Tuesday, June 23 at 7:00 pm. No agenda, no book to read – just friends fellowshipping together.
Contact: Lauri Soong – laurisoong@hotmail.com
During the summer months, our Third Sunday Potlucks become Third Sunday Cook Outs! Join us on Sunday, June 21 for great food and warm fellowship. We’ll provide the cook-out favorites; the congregation is asked to bring sides and desserts. All are welcome and invited!
Contact: Michelle Jones – michelle@highlandsumc.net
The church office and Child Development Center will be closed on Friday, June 19 in observance of Juneteenth.
One Sunday each month, our children, youth and adults will gather together during Sunday School for Heart and Hand Sundays, where we will work together on service projects for our church and community. This inter-generational time of service will start with refreshments and a short devotional suitable for all ages. Join us at 9:30 a.m. in the Fellowship Hall
June 14 - Non-Perishable Food Drive for UAB Blazer Pantry
Congregants are encouraged to conduct a canned food and non-perishable food drive through your neighbors and social media contacts. Collect items and bring to church where we will sort, pack, and deliver to the UAB Food Pantry, which is a few blocks away.
Upcoming Heart & Hand Sundays:
July 12 – Diaper Drive for Bundles of Hope (diapers and wipes)
August 9 - Backpack Ministries (non-perishable food items)
Suggested Donation Items:
Cereal
Evaporated milk
Oatmeal or Grits
Packaged or canned fruits
Macaroni and cheese
Juice
Packaged or canned meats
Pasta and pasta sauce
Snack Items
Soap
Deodorant
Shampoo and conditioner
Toothbrushes and toothpaste
Shaving cream and razors
Feminine Hygiene products
Mouth wash
Lotion
Toilet paper
Tissue
Detergent
Laundry detergent
Paper towels
Pride Parade - June 13
The Central Alabama Pride Parade will be held on Saturday, June 13. Highlands is excited to have a float in the parade this year, and would like to invite all to participate! Wear your Highlands t-shirts or any colorful apparel and comfortable walking shoes. The parade begins around 8 p.m.
This summer, our youth group will travel to Deer Lodge, TN to work at the Morgan Scott Project, a non-profit helping the elderly, needy, handicapped, and unemployed in Morgan and Scott counties, which are among the most poverty-stricken counties in Tennessee. The leadership intends to have us work on a project that is a good match for our group’s size and abilities; we’ll know more about the project when we can tell them more about the group that is coming. Typical projects include building a wheel chair ramp, painting, and helping rehab a bathroom. The Morgan Scott Project will provide onsite leadership for all projects.
All youth (rising 7th - graduating 12th graders) are invited to participate. Registration is open through June 3.
Accommodations
MSP has two rooms with four bunk beds each, an additional two fold out couches, and ample space for air mattresses. There are private bathrooms and showers where we are staying, along with a kitchen and dining area.
Adult Chaperones
If you are interested in attending as an adult chaperone, please contact Danny Jones.
Cost
Total cost of mission trip is $280 per person. Cost covers transportation, meals, lodging, supplies, and t-shirt. Participants may wish to bring a little pocket money for the Morgan Scott Project thrift shop, extra snacks, or soft drinks. Please do not let cost be an obstacle to participation! Full or partial scholarships are available upon request. To request a scholarship, contact Danny Jones at danny@highlandsumc.net prior to registration so that we can send you the correct discount code.
A $50 deposit is due at the time of registration. Use the following codes to pay only the deposit cost at checkout.
For one participant: DEPOSIT1
For two participants: DEPOSIT2
For three participants: DEPOSIT3
If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out to Danny Jones at danny@highlandsumc.net
Highlands is proud to host the Central Alabama Pride Interfaith Pride Service on Thursday, June 4 at 6 pm. Save the date and join us in worship, hope, and community.
As summer approaches and folks return home from school or work, we want to extend a warm invitation to college students and young adults to join us for a bi-monthly meal and fellowship gathering. It’s the perfect opportunity to reconnect with old friends, make new ones, and share in a time of reflection and spiritual growth. Gatherings will include a delicious meal, time for catching up with each other, and a short devotional to inspire and encourage you as you navigate this season of life. We believe that community is essential for growth and support, and we would love for you to be a part of ours.
Contact: Reggie Holder – reggie@highlandsumc.net.
Meeting Schedule and Locations:
Monday, June 1 – Top Golf Outing, hosted by The Soong Family
Wednesday, July 15 – The Harper-Holder Family
Monday, August 10 – The Rand Family
Join us for a special screening of the documentary film Sallie’s Ashes and community discussion.
“Faced with terminal lung cancer, 80-year-old Sallie Smith rallies an unlikely team of fellow Alabama grandmas to fight for the removal of a toxic coal ash pit that threatens the waters of their beloved Mobile Bay.”
This screening is free and open to the public.
Run time: 40 minutes
More information on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/829408140146313
Need a break? Join the women of Highlands for a relaxed social gathering at Panera Bread in Vestavia Hills on Tuesday, May 26 at 7:00 pm. No agenda, no book to read – just friends fellowshipping together.
Contact: Lauri Soong – laurisoong@hotmail.com
