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upcoming events 

The Third Avenue Building is closed due to building maintenance issues. 
No Community Lunches will be served until further notice.
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MARK YOUR CALENDARS

​​Table Talk with Pastor Jeremy - Wednesdays @ Noon @ First Church Campus

Lenten Book Study: Knowing Who We Are - Begins Wednesday, February 25 - April 1 @ 11AM @ First Church Campus

Euchre/Game Night - Wednesday, March 25 @ 5:30PM @ First Church Campus

Crafting With a Cause - Saturday, March 28 @ 10AM - Noon @ First Church Campus

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WE'RE HIRING!

Choir Director - Provide musical leadership, rehearse and direct our choir, and help shape meaningful worship experiences through choral music.

 

Director of Family Ministry & Community Outreach - Lead initiatives that engage families, build community partnerships, and connect our church with the needs of our neighbors.

 

If you have questions or would like to apply, please contact the main office and speak with Barb or Pastor Jeremy.

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URGENT: Pantry Items Needed

Our Personal Care Pantries are in immediate need of donations to help support individuals and families in our community. Your generosity makes a real difference, and right now the following items are especially needed:

  • Shampoo & conditioner

  • Deodorant

  • Toothpaste & toothbrushes

  • Pasta & rice

  • Boxed meals

  • Cereal & oatmeal

  • Hats, gloves, and mittens

 

Thank you so much for your continued generosity and care for our neighbors in need!

 

Donation Drop-Off Locations:

  • Downtown (First) Campus: Fellowship Hall, near the bulletin board

  • North (Paris) Campus: Sanctuary, table near the main door

 

Every donation helps meet a real need—thank you for being part of this ministry of compassion and support.

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TABLE TALK WITH PASTOR JEREMY - WEDNESDAY'S @ NOON

You’re invited to join Pastor Jeremy for Table Talk at the First Church campus. Bring your lunch and gather around the table for open, relaxed conversation and connection. This is a space to talk about whatever is on your mind — current events, questions of faith, or life in general. There’s no formal agenda, just time to listen, share, and be in community together. Come every week or drop in when you’re able — all are welcome! No registration or RSVP necessary. (From Pastor Jeremy: This isn’t a gripe session, church business meeting, or a place to troubleshoot programs and policies. The goal is connection, dialogue, and shared reflection in a relaxed and welcoming space.)

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​LENTEN BOOK STUDY - KNOWING WHO WE ARE

Across the Michigan Conference, United Methodists are spending time this year reflecting on who we are, where we’ve come from, and what it truly means to be part of The United Methodist Church. To join in that wider conversation, we’ll be offering an in-person book study at the First Church campus on Wednesdays at 11AM, beginning February 25 and continuing through April 1.

 

We’ll be using the same book that the Michigan Conference is encouraging churches across the state to read: Knowing Who We Are by Laceye C. Warner.

 

This study is a great opportunity to learn what it really means to be United Methodist — our Wesleyan roots, our core values, and the way faith is meant to shape our lives, our communities, and the world.

 

It’s also a very practical option for anyone considering becoming a member of UMMMC. We don’t typically offer formal membership classes, and participation in a class is not required in order to become a member. That said, if membership is something you’re considering, this study is a great way to explore what it means to be United Methodist in a meaningful and accessible way.

 

If you are interested in becoming a member, please reach out directly to Pastor Jeremy to let him know. Our current plan is to welcome new members on Easter Sunday, alongside our confirmands.

 

We’ll be ordering books and will have them available in the church office for $15.

 

To register for the in-person study at First Church, call Barbara Erb in the office or send an email to register@ummecosta.org with “Lenten Book Study” in the subject line. Please include your name and phone number in the body of the email.

 

Prefer a virtual option through the Michigan Conference? Sign up here:

https://michigan-reg.brtapp.com/KnowingWhoWeAreBookStudyPromo

 

Whether you join us in person or with other United Methodists from across the state online, this is a great way to grow in your understanding of what it means to be United Methodist and connect with the wider church.

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MARCH MISSION GIVING FOCUS - UMCOR

This month we turn our hearts and hands toward one of The United Methodist Church’s most trusted and impactful mission partners: the United Methodist Committee on Relief, known widely as UMCOR. At its core, UMCOR answers Jesus’ call to love our neighbors and bear one another’s burdens by bringing help and hope where suffering is greatest.

 

The United Methodist Committee on Relief is the global humanitarian relief and development organization of The United Methodist Church. UMCOR serves as the Church’s principal response to human suffering around the world—whether caused by natural disasters, war and conflict, famine, or other overwhelming crises. It is a nonprofit ministry operating under the General Board of Global Ministries and engages in relief efforts in more than 70 countries, including here in the United States.

 

One defining strength of UMCOR is that 100% of every dollar designated for a specific disaster or relief project goes directly to that work—not to administrative costs. That’s because the “costs of doing business” for UMCOR are funded through a separate annual offering that underwrites administrative expenses so gifts to specific projects can go entirely to those in need. Here are the kinds of work your giving supports:

 

  • Immediate Disaster Relief - When hurricanes, floods, earthquakes, wildfires or other disasters strike, UMCOR mobilizes quickly to provide essentials like food, clean water, temporary shelter, hygiene items, and debris removal to overwhelmed communities.

 

  • Long-Term Recovery and Reconstruction - UMCOR doesn’t only respond in the first days after a crisis. It also helps families and communities rebuild their lives—from repairing homes and restoring livelihoods to case management and ongoing support for recovery.

 

  • Global Health, Hunger, and Poverty Initiatives - In partnership with local organizations around the world, UMCOR addresses hunger, poverty, disease, and lack of access to clean water or healthcare—seeking sustainable solutions to complex, long-term needs.

 

  • Refugee and Migration Support - UMCOR ministers to displaced people, refugees, and migrants by partnering with agencies to provide essential services, shelter, and welcoming care wherever displacement has occurred.

 

Because of this wide ministry impact, giving to UMCOR is not only a response to crisis—it is a faithful testament to our shared call to live out Christ’s love in tangible, life-changing ways. When we give to UMCOR this month, we extend help, hope and healing to our neighbors near and far.

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CRAFTING WITH A CAUSE

Join us for Crafting with a Cause on Saturday, March 28 @ 10AM (First Church Campus) for a morning of creativity, connection, and compassion. This isn’t just about making something — it’s about making a difference. Together, we’ll create simple handmade items that will be shared with members of our community who could use a reminder that they are seen, valued, and loved. You don’t have to be “crafty” to participate. Whether you’re experienced with glue guns and paintbrushes or you simply want to show up and help, there’s a place for you. Supplies will be provided, and all ages are welcome. Come create. Come connect. Come be part of something that extends hope beyond our walls.

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​SOUL CIRCLE SPRING 2026 GROUPS FORMING NOW!

SOUL Circle 2025 offered a meaningful and supportive experience for more than a dozen church and community members.

Sharing our stories and the many ways grief is experienced along life’s journey proved to be deeply healing and comforting.

 

We are gathering participants for our Spring 2026 session. If you are interested in joining our next 13-week SOUL Circle, please contact Barb in the church office or reach out to Kathy Bell for more information.

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​​​​​​​​​​​INCLEMENT WEATHER POLICY

When Big Rapids Public Schools are closed due to inclement weather, the church office will also be closed, and all church-sponsored events and activities will be canceled for the day.

There may be occasions when small groups or outside groups using the building choose to meet despite weather conditions. If you have questions about a specific event, please contact the organizer or group leader directly for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

Thank you for helping us prioritize safety while staying connected.

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PANTRY UPDATE

The pantry has been low on personal hygiene items and is currently in desperate need of everything!  We continue to collect non-perishable weather-friendly food items, as well as hats and gloves. Please consider even the smallest donations.  With many hands we can achieve much! Thank you for the incredible support you have shown through our Personal Hygiene Pantry. Thanks to your generosity, we have been able to assist many neighbors over the past year+. 

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With winter temperatures we are requesting items that will not freeze during transport or storage. Canned goods and dry shelf-stable foods are especially helpful right now. Suggested donations include:

  • Canned vegetables, fruit, beans, and soups

  • Pasta, rice, and boxed meals

  • Peanut butter

  • Cereal and oatmeal

  • Shelf-stable proteins (tuna, chicken, beans, etc.)

 

Please avoid items with liquid in bottles or cartons, which may freeze and be damaged in storage. You can drop your donations off at First Church or place them directly in the pantry.

 

Your generosity makes a real and immediate difference. As a church, we are committed to standing with our neighbors offering compassion, stability, and hope.

 

Thank you for being a community that shows love in tangible ways. If you have questions or would like to help with distribution, please contact the church office.

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​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES AT UMMMC FOR 2026

As we prepare for the new year, we’re building teams to help create a warm, welcoming Sunday experience at UMMMC.

  • Fellowship Hosts – Provide simple refreshments after worship at First Church. Individuals, families, or groups welcome.

  • Communion Stewards – Prepare the bread and cup before worship (about one hour, once a month).

  • Greeters – Offer a warm welcome and help people feel at home when they arrive.

  • Ushers – Distribute bulletins, assist with seating, and help keep our worship space ready.

 

If you’re interested or want to learn more, please contact Barbara Erb in the church office or Pastor Jeremy. Thank you for helping us build a welcoming, vibrant community!

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​​STAY CONNECTED WITH US ON SOCIAL MEDIA

Did you know that each campus of United Methodist Ministries of Mecosta County has its own social media presence? Whether you’re at First, Third Avenue, or Paris, there’s a platform tailored to keep you informed, inspired, and connected to your church family!

 

What Can You Expect?

  • Upcoming Events: Never miss a worship service, outreach opportunity, or special event happening at your campus.

  • Faith-Filled Inspiration: From sermon highlights to uplifting posts, our social media is a source of encouragement throughout the week.

  • Community Connection: Get a glimpse of how God is working in our church and beyond.

 

WHERE to Follow Us:

 

We’d love to hear from you too! Like, comment, and share posts to help spread the word about the incredible things God is doing through UMMMC.

 

Take a moment today to visit your campus page and hit that "Follow" button. Let’s stay connected, grow together, and make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world!

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See you online!​​​​​

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FIRST CHURCH TEXT LINE

We're thrilled to introduce a new way to stay connected and informed - introducing our First Church Text Line!  Now you can send prayer requests and receive event updates and cancellations right to your phone.  It's quick, easy, and FREE!

To subscribe, simply text "subscribe" to 833-204-1452.  All event updates, including cancellations, will also be announced via email and posted to our Facebook page.  If you have any questions about the service, or have difficulty registering, please contact the church office at 231-796-7771.

Disclaimer:  While the service is free, please be aware that standard text message rates may apply depending on your cell carrier.  Check with your carrier for details.

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FREE COMMUNITY LUNCH - NO LUNCHES SERVED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE

Third Avenue UMC located  at 226 North Third Avenue serves a FREE LUNCH every Wednesday @ 11:30 AM and every Saturday @ 11:30 AM.  Come and enjoy a great meal, and get to know the amazing people in your community!

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FREE COMMUNITY DINNER      

First Church serves a FREE DINNER every Thursday in our Fellowship Hall.  The doors open at 4:30PM for a time of fellowship and community building, and dinner is served from 5:30 - 6:00PM.  Come and enjoy a great meal, and get to know some of the amazing people in your community!  If you would like to volunteer to serve at the Community Dinner, please contact the church office at 231-796-7771 or via our Contact Us page, found HERE.

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AA MEETINGS

Paris Campus (109 Lincoln Street) - Tuesday @ 7:00PM, Thursday @ 7PM and Saturday @ 11AM 

First Church Campus (304 Elm Street,  Big Rapids) - Monday @12PM, Tuesday @ 12PM,  Friday @ 12PM​

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