Youth Sunday and Senior Recognition - May 3
Please save the date for our Youth Sunday and senior recognition service on May 3. Parents of graduates are asked to submit bulletin information to Mary Elizabeth Neal by May 1.
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!
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 next Sunday, September 6 during Labor Day Weekend. The Nursery will open at 10:15 am.
The Reverend Mikah Hudson, Preaching
Richard Phillips, Choirmaster & Organist
Ryan Morrison, Piper
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!
Easter Sunday Service of Holy Communion and Celebration of the Resurrection
The Reverend Mikah Hudson, preaching.
A joyful worship experience celebrating the Resurrection in scripture, beautiful music enhanced by members of the Alabama Symphony Orchestra, and Holy Communion. All are invited to the table in the United Methodist Church.
Children’s activity bags will be available in the Sanctuary entrances for use during worship. A nursery is available for children age 4 and younger.
The service will be streamed on Facebook, Vimeo, Youtube, and www.highlandsumc.net.
Highlands United Methodist Church is located at 1045 20th Street South, Birmingham, AL 35205. Parking is available at metered spaces on the street, at the Southside parking deck off Magnolia Avenue, and in the church parking lot located directly behind the church off Richard Arrington Blvd. Please reserve the church lot for those with limited mobility.
Easter Sunday Service of Holy Communion and Celebration of the Resurrection for Children and Families
Reggie Holder, preaching.
A joyful and abbreviated worship experience celebrating the Resurrection in scripture, song, and Holy Communion - perfect for families with small children! All are invited to the table in the United Methodist Church.
A nursery is available for children age 4 and younger.
The service will be streamed on Facebook, Vimeo, Youtube, and www.highlandsumc.net.
Highlands United Methodist Church is located at 1045 20th Street South, Birmingham, AL 35205. Parking is available at metered spaces on the street, at the Southside parking deck off Magnolia Avenue, and in the church parking lot located directly behind the church off Richard Arrington Blvd. Please reserve the church lot for those with limited mobility.
Good Friday recalls the day of Jesus’ trial, crucifixion, and death.
The Tenebrae Service, from the Latin meaning "darkness," makes use of gradually diminishing light, scripture readings, and sacred music to symbolize the events of Jesus' last week on earth, from the triumphant Palm Sunday procession through Jesus' crucifixion and burial. The service concludes in total darkness as the Christ candle is taken from the Sanctuary until Jesus' resurrection on Easter Sunday.
A nursery is available for children age 4 and younger.
The service will be streamed on Facebook, Vimeo, Youtube, and www.highlandsumc.net.
Highlands United Methodist Church is located at 1045 20th Street South, Birmingham, AL 35205. Parking is available at metered spaces on the street, at the Southside parking deck off Magnolia Avenue, and in the church parking lot located directly behind the church off Richard Arrington Blvd. Please reserve the church lot for those with limited mobility.
Good Friday recalls the day of Jesus’ trial, crucifixion, and death.
The Solemn Liturgy for Good Friday is a quiet, simple service of remembrance, incorporating prayer, scripture reading, sacred music, and silence. The service will last no longer than one hour.
The service will be streamed on Facebook, Vimeo, Youtube, and www.highlandsumc.net.
Highlands United Methodist Church is located at 1045 20th Street South, Birmingham, AL 35205. Parking is available at metered spaces on the street, at the Southside parking deck off Magnolia Avenue, and in the church parking lot located directly behind the church off Richard Arrington Blvd. Please reserve the church lot for those with limited mobility.
Maundy Thursday Service of Holy Communion
The word "maundy" comes from the Latin mandatum, meaning commandment. On this night, the night Jesus was betrayed, Jesus washed the feet of his disciples, gave them a new commandment to love one another as he had loved them, and shared a Passover meal together. On Maundy Thursday, we celebrate Holy Communion in remembrance of this Last Supper. The final act of worship on this night is the stripping of the altar and Sanctuary of all symbols of Jesus' life and teachings.
A nursery is available for children age 4 and younger.
The service will be streamed on Facebook, Vimeo, Youtube, and www.highlandsumc.net.
Highlands United Methodist Church is located at 1045 20th Street South, Birmingham, AL 35205. Parking is available at metered spaces on the street, at the Southside parking deck off Magnolia Avenue, and in the church parking lot located directly behind the church off Richard Arrington Blvd. Please reserve the church lot for those with limited mobility.
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
Join us at Highlands to celebrate Palm Sunday, in remembrance of Jesus' triumphal entry into Jerusalem!
We begin with a Palm Sunday Procession from Brother Bryan Park to the church front lawn. Gather early to meet the donkey!
Celebrate Palm Sunday at Highlands with joyful songs and waving of palm branches in remembrance of Jesus’ triumphal entry into Jerusalem. Through our acts of worship and scripture readings, we embody both the cheering crowd of that joyful day, and the angry mob that will eventually call for Jesus’ crucifixion. The retiring procession on Palm Sunday takes place in silence, in contemplation of all that is to come this Holy Week and in anticipation of the coming Resurrection.
A nursery is available for children age 4 and younger.
The service will be streamed on Facebook, Vimeo, Youtube, and www.highlandsumc.net.
Highlands United Methodist Church is located at 1045 20th Street South, Birmingham, AL 35205. Parking is available at metered spaces on the street, at the Southside parking deck off Magnolia Avenue, and in the church parking lot located directly behind the church off Richard Arrington Blvd. Please reserve the church lot for those with limited mobility.
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
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
Join us for a simple service of Holy Communion each Tuesday in Lent. Lunch will follow in the Fellowship Hall for $12.
March 10
Sheryl Jordan Thornton
Retired UMC Clergy
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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
Join us for a simple service of Holy Communion each Tuesday in Lent. Lunch will follow in the Fellowship Hall for $12.
March 3
Wilson Nash
Highlands 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
Join us for a simple service of Holy Communion each Tuesday in Lent. Lunch will follow in the Fellowship Hall for $12.
February 24
Brian Erickson
Trinity United Methodist Church, Homewood
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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
Service of Choral Evensong - February 22
Join The Choir of Highlands on February 22 at 4 pm in the Sanctuary for a service of Choral Evensong for the Lenten season. Evensong, or Evening Prayers, is a beautiful choral music tradition in which the ‘song’ of voices in harmony is heard at the ‘even’ point between the active day and restful night, allowing listeners time for restful contemplation.
Contact: Rick Phillips – rick@highlandsumc.net
On Ash Wednesday we join with Christians around the world in beginning the season of Lent. Ash Wednesday worship focuses on repentance and reconciliation. Ash Wednesday is an opportunity for us to go deeper into our hearts and into the souls of our communities, and to recognize the horror and depth of our estrangement from God. Through our worship and Lenten Discipline we begin a spiritual journey that takes us to a cross where Jesus gave his life for the life of the world. Such a journey is not easy and goes far beyond the surface of individual sin into the systemic roots that cause it. It is a journey that reveals the truth about our lives both individually and collectively. Through this journey we discover the grace and forgiveness of God in a most profound way.
Join us for worship in the Sanctuary at 6:30 p.m.
On Ash Wednesday we join with Christians around the world in beginning the season of Lent. Ash Wednesday worship focuses on repentance and reconciliation. Ash Wednesday is an opportunity for us to go deeper into our hearts and into the souls of our communities, and to recognize the horror and depth of our estrangement from God. Through our worship and Lenten Discipline we begin a spiritual journey that takes us to a cross where Jesus gave his life for the life of the world. Such a journey is not easy and goes far beyond the surface of individual sin into the systemic roots that cause it. It is a journey that reveals the truth about our lives both individually and collectively. Through this journey we discover the grace and forgiveness of God in a most profound way.
Join us for worship in the Sanctuary at noon.
Discover Highlands - February 8
You're warmly invited to join us for a delightful lunch following worship on Sunday, February 8, at Noon in the Fellowship Hall. This is a wonderful opportunity for anyone interested in learning more about church membership. Meet our dedicated leaders and staff, enjoy a tour of our beautiful church, and discover the enriching learning opportunities and service initiatives available to our community. Whether you're new to the area or exploring ways to deepen your faith, we would love to welcome you into our church family. Please email Michelle Jones to reserve a spot for lunch.
Lunch RSVP: Michelle Jones – michelle@highlandsumc.net
Service of Christmas Eve Communion and Candlelighting
Celebrate the coming of the Christ Child in scripture, sacred song, and beatiful candle light. All are welcome to join with us for Holy Communion.
Streaming Video and Additional Information coming soon.
The Music of Christmas
Streaming Video and Additional Information coming soon.
Service of Christmas Eve Communion for Children and Families
This service of Holy Communion for Christmas Eve will be tailored for children and their families - brief, beautiful, and filled with the joy of the coming of the Christ Child.
Streaming Video and Additional Information coming soon.
Advent Labyrinth Walks
Sundays in December • 3:00–4:00 p.m.
During this sacred season of waiting and hope, you are invited to a weekly Advent opportunity to walk the labyrinth in the sanctuary. Each Sunday in December, from 3 to 4 p.m., Jettye Davis will gently facilitate our time together, offering space for reflection, prayer, and quiet renewal.
As the sun begins to set, the light streaming through the sanctuary window traces a beautiful path from the crèche to the altar—an embodied reminder of Christ’s journey into the world and into our hearts. Come as you are, move at your own pace, and allow the Spirit to guide your steps.
Service of Morning Worship featuring The Children’s Christmas Pageant
10:30 a.m. in the Sanctuary
Reggie Holder, preaching
Experience the wonder of Christmas through the eyes of our children as they lovingly present the story of the coming Christ child. Journey with Mary and Joseph to Bethlehem as the ancient story unfolds through narration, costumes, and the singing of beloved carols of the season. This treasured Highlands tradition is filled with joy, charm, and the holy mystery of Christmas—one you won’t want to miss!
All children participating in this year’s pageant are required to attend dress rehearsal on Saturday, December 20 from 9:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. If you have questions, please contact Mary Elizabeth Neal at maryelizabeth@highlandsumc.net.
Advent Labyrinth Walks
Sundays in December • 3:00–4:00 p.m.
EXTENDED HOURS FOR 12/14 - 3:00 - 5:00 p.m.
During this sacred season of waiting and hope, you are invited to a weekly Advent opportunity to walk the labyrinth in the sanctuary. Each Sunday in Advent, from 3 to 4 p.m., Jettye Davis will gently facilitate our time together, offering space for reflection, prayer, and quiet renewal.
As the sun begins to set, the light streaming through the sanctuary window traces a beautiful path from the crèche to the altar—an embodied reminder of Christ’s journey into the world and into our hearts. Come as you are, move at your own pace, and allow the Spirit to guide your steps.
10:30 a.m. Morning Worship featuring The Choir and Chamber Orchestra
The Reverend Mikah Hudson preaching
Join us for a joyful service of worship on the Third Sunday of Advent, as our choir will be joined with members of the Alabama Symphony Orchestra to lead us in a morning filled with hope, beauty, and the promise of Christ’s coming. Through stirring anthems, rich arrangements, and the warmth of seasonal music, we lift our hearts in expectation of the Child who brings light into the world. Surrounded by the colors and symbols of Advent, this special service invites you to pause, rejoice, and experience the wonder of God’s love made new among us.
Musical offerings:
Sinfonia from MESSIAH - George Frederick Handel
Pifa from MESSIAH - George Frederick Handel
Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring - Johann Sebastian Bach
Congregational Hymns: Once In Royal David's City; Hark! the Herald Angels Sing; and O Come, All Ye Faithful
Advent Labyrinth Walks
Sundays in December • 3:00–4:00 p.m.
During this sacred season of waiting and hope, you are invited to a weekly Advent opportunity to walk the labyrinth in the sanctuary. Each Sunday in December, from 3 to 4 p.m., Jettye Davis will gently facilitate our time together, offering space for reflection, prayer, and quiet renewal.
As the sun begins to set, the light streaming through the sanctuary window traces a beautiful path from the crèche to the altar—an embodied reminder of Christ’s journey into the world and into our hearts. Come as you are, move at your own pace, and allow the Spirit to guide your steps.
The Second Sunday of Advent - A Festival of Lessons and Carols
10:30 a.m. in the Sanctuary
You’re invited to a special Festival of Lessons and Carols during our 10:30 a.m. worship service—a morning filled with beautiful music, scripture, and the wonder of the season. Together we will hear the story of Christ’s coming through beloved readings and inspiring offerings from The Children’s Choir, The Choir, and The Handbell Choir. The sanctuary will be beautifully decorated, creating a warm and welcoming space to reflect, rejoice, and prepare our hearts for Christ’s birth. Join us for this cherished tradition and let the music of the season lift your spirit.
Richard Phillips, Choirmaster & Organist
Kathy Burdette, Handbell Choir Director
Mary Elizabeth Neal, Children’s Choir Director
Organ Voluntaries:
The Holy Boy - John Ireland (1879-1962)
Prelude on VENI EMMANUEL - Pietro A. Yon (1886-1943)
Fantasia on VENI, VENI EMMANUEL - Alec Rowley (1892-1958)
Carols:
E’en So, Lord Jesus, Quickly Come - Paul O. Manz (1919-2009)
Adam Lay Y’bounden - Christopher Hampson (b.1980)
Away in a Manger - James H. Cook (b. 1946)
Good King Wenceslas - Hugh Thomas (1912-2002)
Silent Night - Malcolm Sargent (1895-1967)
Ding Dong Merrily on High - Charles Wood (1866-1926)
The Coventry Carol - Steve Pilkington (b. 1972)
Candlelight Carol - Sir John Rutter (b. 1945)
Children’s Choir Choral Introit:
Light One Candle - Natalie Sleeth (1934-1992)
Handbell Carol:
Infant Holy, Infant Lowly - Arranged by Linda R. Lamb (1955)
Congregational Hymns:
Come, Thou Long-Expected Jesus (HYFRYDOL)
God Rest You Merry Gentlemen (GOD REST YOU MERRY)
O Little Town of Bethlehem (ST. LOUIS)
Angels from the Realms of Glory (REGEANT SQUARE)
Bring A Friend Sunday - December 7
As we kick off our fall activities, 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, December 7. 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. Let's all extend our love into the community by welcoming friends and neighbors to Highlands!
The First Sunday of Advent
Service of Holy Communion
10:30 a.m. in the Sanctuary
The Reverend Mikah Hudson, preaching
Join us for a beautiful worship service on the First Sunday of Advent as we enter this sacred season of anticipation, preparation, and hope. Our service will include the gift of sacred dance that helps set our hearts toward the coming of the Christ Child, a moment of confession and assurance of God’s pardon, and the sacrament of Holy Communion which binds us all together in Christ's love. Immerse yourself in the sounds of inspiring music and the sight of a sanctuary lovingly prepared for Advent—glowing with greenery, candlelight, and symbols of promise.
The Reverend Mikah Hudson, Preaching
Richard Phillips, Choirmaster & Organist
Ryan Morrison, Piper
