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
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
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
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.
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!
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
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)
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
During the summer months, our Third Sunday Potlucks become Third Sunday Cook Outs! Join us on Sunday, July 19 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
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
August 9 - Backpack Ministries
Join us for our last Heart & Hand Sunday of the summer! We will be collecting shelf-stable food and snacks, sorting donations, and packing backpacks for students at Glen Iris Elementary School. These inter-generational experiences are a great way to get to know the Highlands family better, and are a perfect opportunity to invite friends and neighbors to see what Highlands is all about.
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
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
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
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.
United Women in Faith Meeting
Highlands United Women in Faith will meet at the church on Monday, August 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
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
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 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.
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
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.
Church Council Meeting - November 15
The Church Council will meet on Sunday, November 15 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 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 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.
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.
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
There will be no Sunday School classes or Atrium on Sunday, May 24 during Memorial Day Weekend. The Nursery will open at 10:15 am.
Church Council Meeting - April 17
The Church Council will meet on Sunday, May 17 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
Third Sunday Potlucks take place every third Sunday of the month.
Bring your favorite main course, side dish, bread, or dessert to share. Don’t have time to bring something? You can make a small donation toward paper products and beverages. Join us for good food and warm fellowship. All are welcome and invited!
Contact: Michelle Jones – michelle@highlandsumc.net
Bring A Friend Sunday - May 17
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, May 17. 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 Monday, May 11 at 11:00 am. We will be hosting the monthly birthday party for the participants at McCoy Adult Day Center. Lunch will follow for $12 with reservation.
Contact: Mary Beth Lloyd – mblloyd85@yahoo.com
Lunch RSVP: Suzanne Hoye – srhoye@live.com
Acolyte Training
Being an acolyte at Highlands is more than just wearing a robe and carrying a torch or processional cross - it is an act of praise and service to God, and your church family. Acolytes illuminate the Word, direct our attentions toward spiritual matters, and enhance our communal worship experience. This fall, you are invited to join the Acolyte Ministry at Highlands. All you have to do is attend one of our training sessions. Lunch will provided and training takes about an hour. Acolyte training is open to everyone: adults, youth, and children fourth grade and older. All currently trained acolytes are also encouraged to attend a training session.
Acolyte Training will take place over two Sundays; it is important to attend both sessions!
April 19 and 26 at 9:15 a.m. in the Sanctuary
Need a break? Join the women of Highlands for a relaxed social gathering at Panera Bread in Vestavia Hills on Tuesday, March 10 at 7:00 pm. No agenda, no book to read – just friends fellowshipping together.
Contact: Lauri Soong – laurisoong@hotmail.com
Third Sunday Potlucks take place every third Sunday of the month.
Bring your favorite main course, side dish, bread, or dessert to share. Don’t have time to bring something? You can make a small donation toward paper products and beverages. Join us for good food and warm fellowship. All are welcome and invited!
Contact: Michelle Jones – michelle@highlandsumc.net
Acolyte Training
Being an acolyte at Highlands is more than just wearing a robe and carrying a torch or processional cross - it is an act of praise and service to God, and your church family. Acolytes illuminate the Word, direct our attentions toward spiritual matters, and enhance our communal worship experience. This fall, you are invited to join the Acolyte Ministry at Highlands. All you have to do is attend one of our training sessions. Lunch will provided and training takes about an hour. Acolyte training is open to everyone: adults, youth, and children fourth grade and older. All currently trained acolytes are also encouraged to attend a training session.
Acolyte Training will take place over two Sundays; it is important to attend both sessions!
April 19 and 26 at 9:15 a.m. in the Sanctuary
United Women in Faith Meeting
Highlands United Women in Faith will meet at the church on Monday, April 13 at 11:00 am. Our guest presenter will be Rev. Melissa Self Patrick. Lunch will follow for $12 with reservation.
Contact: Mary Beth Lloyd – mblloyd85@yahoo.com
Lunch RSVP: Suzanne Hoye – srhoye@live.com
Church Office Closed - Easter Monday
The church office will be closed Monday, April 6. We will resume normal business hours on Tuesday, April 7. Happy Easter!
Join us for a simple service of Holy Communion each Tuesday in Lent. Lunch will follow in the Fellowship Hall for $12.
March 31
Elizabeth Goodrich
Thank You Books
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Highlands United Methodist Church is located at 1045 20th Street South (35205) immediately behind the landmark fountain in the heart of Five Points South, Birmingham. Free parking for Sunday services is available at metered space on the street, at Highlands Bar and Grill on 11th Avenue S, and in the Five Points South Deck on Magnolia Avenue. A parking lot for first-time visitors and those with limited mobility is located directly behind the church, off Richard Arrington Boulevard.
All Are Welcome at Highlands:
Highlands United Methodist Church affirms that nothing can separate anyone from the love of God. We invite all to worship, wonder, and discover God’s grace as we aspire to create a safe space for all to participate fully in the life of this community of faith. We are called to shine as a beacon of hope, grace, belonging and respect for all people. Regardless of age, gender identity, ethnicity, sexual orientation, family, financial status, nationality, physical or mental ability, past or future, there is room for you at Highlands
Lenten Labyrinth - Sundays at 3 PM
During the Lenten season, Jettye Davis will gently facilitate a time and space for prayer, quiet listening, and reflection. This contemplative walk offers a meaningful way to slow down, release what weighs on the heart, and open yourself to God’s grace and renewal. The labyrinth will be available in the Chancel each Sunday in March from 3 to 4 pm. Come and go as your schedule allows!
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 March 29. The proceeds will support UMW local missions projects. Payment by cash, check, or Venmo accepted.
UWiF supports Urban Ministries, Embrace Kids AL, McCoy Adult Day Care, University of Montevallo Music Scholarships, as well as many Highlands United Methodist Church programs and world-wide United Methodist Church ministries.
Join us this Lent for a transformative journey as we explore Ashley Boggan's enlightening resource, Wesleyan Vile-tality: Reclaiming the Heart of Methodist Identity. This study is designed to deepen our understanding of what it means to be a follower of Christ in the Wesleyan tradition. Each session will focus on key themes that Boggan presents, fostering a lively discourse on how we can embody Wesleyan values in our daily lives. Expect to engage in prayer, reflection, and community-building as we journey together through this sacred season.
• Thursdays at 7:00 pm on Zoom
We invite everyone to participate, whether you are new to our church or have been a lifelong member. This is an opportunity to grow in faith and fellowship. Let's walk together towards a more vibrant faith this Lenten season!
Contact: Reggie Holder – reggie@highlandsumc.net
To help us better prepare for each session, please register online! Those planning to attend on Thursdays will receive a Zoom link after registration.
Join us for a simple service of Holy Communion each Tuesday in Lent. Lunch will follow in the Fellowship Hall for $12.
March 24
Mark Kennedy
St. Mary’s on the Highlands Episcopal Church
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Highlands United Methodist Church is located at 1045 20th Street South (35205) immediately behind the landmark fountain in the heart of Five Points South, Birmingham. Free parking for Sunday services is available at metered space on the street, at Highlands Bar and Grill on 11th Avenue S, and in the Five Points South Deck on Magnolia Avenue. A parking lot for first-time visitors and those with limited mobility is located directly behind the church, off Richard Arrington Boulevard.
All Are Welcome at Highlands:
Highlands United Methodist Church affirms that nothing can separate anyone from the love of God. We invite all to worship, wonder, and discover God’s grace as we aspire to create a safe space for all to participate fully in the life of this community of faith. We are called to shine as a beacon of hope, grace, belonging and respect for all people. Regardless of age, gender identity, ethnicity, sexual orientation, family, financial status, nationality, physical or mental ability, past or future, there is room for you at Highlands
Lenten Labyrinth - Sundays at 3 PM
During the Lenten season, Jettye Davis will gently facilitate a time and space for prayer, quiet listening, and reflection. This contemplative walk offers a meaningful way to slow down, release what weighs on the heart, and open yourself to God’s grace and renewal. The labyrinth will be available in the Chancel each Sunday in March from 3 to 4 pm. Come and go as your schedule allows!
Join us this Lent for a transformative journey as we explore Ashley Boggan's enlightening resource, Wesleyan Vile-tality: Reclaiming the Heart of Methodist Identity. This study is designed to deepen our understanding of what it means to be a follower of Christ in the Wesleyan tradition. Each session will focus on key themes that Boggan presents, fostering a lively discourse on how we can embody Wesleyan values in our daily lives. Expect to engage in prayer, reflection, and community-building as we journey together through this sacred season.
• Sundays at 9:30 am in The Chapel
We invite everyone to participate, whether you are new to our church or have been a lifelong member. This is an opportunity to grow in faith and fellowship. Let's walk together towards a more vibrant faith this Lenten season!
Contact: Reggie Holder – reggie@highlandsumc.net
Men's Monthly Outing - March 19
Out of this year’s Church Retreat came the idea for a new time of fellowship especially for men, similar to the Ladies Coffee Nights. Join us on the third Thursday of each month from 7:45–9:00 pm at a different local spot to unwind, connect, and enjoy some good conversation. No program, no pressure – just a chance to get out for a bit and spend time together. Our first gathering will be Thursday, March 19 at Paramount in West Homewood.
Contact: Craig Taylor – craigtaylor83@gmail.com
You are warmly invited to a special Vespers Dinner honoring the dedicated volunteers of our Community Ministries and Project ID programs.
On Thursday, March 19, we will gather in the Fellowship Hall for dinner at 5:30 p.m., followed by a brief and meaningful Vespers service at 6:00 p.m. This evening is offered in gratitude for the generous hearts and faithful hands that serve our community in Christ’s name.
Please join us as we share a meal, offer thanks to God, and celebrate the ministry we carry together.
To RSVP for dinner, either click the button below to register online or contact Michelle Jones.
Join us this Lent for a transformative journey as we explore Ashley Boggan's enlightening resource, Wesleyan Vile-tality: Reclaiming the Heart of Methodist Identity. This study is designed to deepen our understanding of what it means to be a follower of Christ in the Wesleyan tradition. Each session will focus on key themes that Boggan presents, fostering a lively discourse on how we can embody Wesleyan values in our daily lives. Expect to engage in prayer, reflection, and community-building as we journey together through this sacred season.
• Thursdays at 7:00 pm on Zoom
We invite everyone to participate, whether you are new to our church or have been a lifelong member. This is an opportunity to grow in faith and fellowship. Let's walk together towards a more vibrant faith this Lenten season!
Contact: Reggie Holder – reggie@highlandsumc.net
To help us better prepare for each session, please register online! Those planning to attend on Thursdays will receive a Zoom link after registration.
Join us for a simple service of Holy Communion each Tuesday in Lent. Lunch will follow in the Fellowship Hall for $12.
March 17
Leslie Norris Williams
East Lake United Methodist Church
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Highlands United Methodist Church is located at 1045 20th Street South (35205) immediately behind the landmark fountain in the heart of Five Points South, Birmingham. Free parking for Sunday services is available at metered space on the street, at Highlands Bar and Grill on 11th Avenue S, and in the Five Points South Deck on Magnolia Avenue. A parking lot for first-time visitors and those with limited mobility is located directly behind the church, off Richard Arrington Boulevard.
All Are Welcome at Highlands:
Highlands United Methodist Church affirms that nothing can separate anyone from the love of God. We invite all to worship, wonder, and discover God’s grace as we aspire to create a safe space for all to participate fully in the life of this community of faith. We are called to shine as a beacon of hope, grace, belonging and respect for all people. Regardless of age, gender identity, ethnicity, sexual orientation, family, financial status, nationality, physical or mental ability, past or future, there is room for you at Highlands
Lenten Labyrinth - Sundays at 3 PM
During the Lenten season, Jettye Davis will gently facilitate a time and space for prayer, quiet listening, and reflection. This contemplative walk offers a meaningful way to slow down, release what weighs on the heart, and open yourself to God’s grace and renewal. The labyrinth will be available in the Chancel each Sunday in March from 3 to 4 pm. Come and go as your schedule allows!
Church Council Meeting - March 15
The Church Council will meet on Sunday, March 15 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
