Vespers Dinner for All Saints - October 29

Please join us for dinner and a Vespers service on Wednesday, October 29 at 5:30 pm. The service of evening prayers will feature music and liturgy from the Iona Community and will celebrate The Feast of All Saints. Dinner will be served at 5:30 pm for the cost of $12. We hope all will join us for this very special service!

Dinner RSVP: Dinah Hughes –dgomes02@yahoo.com

Contact: Marion Lagman – mlagman@gmail.com

Subject: Join Us for a Weekly Bible Study at Highlands United Methodist Church!

We are excited to invite you to our upcoming weekly Bible Study this fall at Highlands United Methodist Church! Join us on Tuesdays at 11:45 a.m. in Room 204, as we will embark on a meaningful journey through the Old Testament books of Genesis and Exodus.

Why Genesis and Exodus?

These books are foundational works of the Judeo-Christian faith, shaping our understanding of God, humanity, and moral principles. They have profoundly influenced countless lives and movements throughout history, including the Civil Rights Movement, as they speak to themes of freedom, justice, and divine promise.

This Fall, we will dive deeply into these sacred texts, enriching our study with insights from contemporary theologians and modern writers. Together, we will explore the historical context, literary elements, and spiritual lessons that continue to resonate today.

Join Us for Lunch!

We encourage you to arrive at 11:45 a.m. to enjoy a delicious meal prepared by PJ, Ali, and the Good to Go crew, available for $12. Please note that lunch reservations are required to ensure we have enough food for everyone.  Suzanne Hoye will collect reservations.

We hope you will join us for this enriching experience as we gather in fellowship and deepen our understanding of these foundational scriptures that still speak to us today.

Discover Highlands - October 26

You're warmly invited to join us for a delightful lunch following worship next Sunday, October 26, 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

New Sunday School Classes for Adults begin October 26 and meet through November 16. Explore the scriptures, prepare for the Advent season, or expand your mindfulness this fall at Highlands.

The Beatitudes for a Time Such as This

Explore the profound wisdom of the Beatitudes, drawn from Jesus' Sermon on the Mount in Matthew 5:3-12. In a world that often feels divided and tumultuous, the Beatitudes offer timeless guidance and encouragement for finding peace, purpose, and community. This class is designed for and welcomes anyone seeking a deeper understanding of how these teachings apply to contemporary life. Join us as we delve into these important teachings and discover how the Beatitudes can illuminate our paths in this time and place in history, encouraging us to embody Christ's love and grace in our everyday lives. Led by Reggie Holder in Room 204.

Worship Unfolded: Embracing Tradition in the Season of Advent

As the season of Advent approaches, explore the deeper meanings behind our traditional liturgical practices in worship. Through thoughtful discussion and reflection, participants will gain insight into why we worship the way we do, and how these practices can be both rooted in tradition and relevant to contemporary faith.

We will examine the theological foundations of worship and its significance as a communal and individual practice, particularly during Advent. We will look at how our prayers, hymns, scripture readings, and rituals connect us to our faith heritage while addressing the needs of our diverse congregation. Participants will gain a better understand the significance of our worship practices during Advent. Led by Mikah Hudson in Room 209.

Mindfulness

Weekly gatherings offer a peaceful space to pause, reflect on your week, and engage in a 10-20 minute guided meditation with friends. Classes are informal and group-led. You can always count on is a welcoming space, a moment of calm, and a shared sense of connection to navigate our mindfulness journeys together. Led by Wilson Nash, George Gaskin, and Kyle McKinnon in The Chapel.

Need a break? Join the women of Highlands for a relaxed social gathering at Panera Bread in Vestavia Hills on Tuesday, October 21 at 7:00 pm. No agenda, no book to read – just friends fellowshipping together.

Contact: Lauri Soong – laurisoong@hotmail.com

Subject: Join Us for a Weekly Bible Study at Highlands United Methodist Church!

We are excited to invite you to our upcoming weekly Bible Study this fall at Highlands United Methodist Church! Join us on Tuesdays at 11:45 a.m. in Room 204, as we will embark on a meaningful journey through the Old Testament books of Genesis and Exodus.

Why Genesis and Exodus?

These books are foundational works of the Judeo-Christian faith, shaping our understanding of God, humanity, and moral principles. They have profoundly influenced countless lives and movements throughout history, including the Civil Rights Movement, as they speak to themes of freedom, justice, and divine promise.

This Fall, we will dive deeply into these sacred texts, enriching our study with insights from contemporary theologians and modern writers. Together, we will explore the historical context, literary elements, and spiritual lessons that continue to resonate today.

Join Us for Lunch!

We encourage you to arrive at 11:45 a.m. to enjoy a delicious meal prepared by PJ, Ali, and the Good to Go crew, available for $12. Please note that lunch reservations are required to ensure we have enough food for everyone.  Suzanne Hoye will collect reservations.

We hope you will join us for this enriching experience as we gather in fellowship and deepen our understanding of these foundational scriptures that still speak to us today.

Return of the Sight Seekers - October 20

We are pleased to announce the return of the Sight Seekers, a monthly day trip group for adults. We will gather on Monday, October 20 at Noon in Room 204 for lunch and to hear your good ideas for trips and activities. Please let Michelle Jones or Reggie Holder know if you can come to lunch and/or have interest in the group.

Contact: Reggie Holder – reggie@highlandsumc.net or Michelle Jones – michelle@highlandsumc.net

Join us on Sunday, October 19 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.

Third Sunday Potlucks take place every third Sunday of the month. Stay after the October potluck for a Halloween Carnival for all ages!

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

Stewardship for Ministries in 2026: Weaving Together

Your pledge is a vital thread in the fabric of Highlands’ future. Each gift helps us strengthen our community of faith, expand outreach, and ensure our church remains a place of hope and renewal.Together, we are weaving a strong and vibrant community. Your commitment will help us:

Grow ministries, both within our congregation and the wider community.

Preserve and care for our church home, a sacred space where generations have found and will find belonging.

Build a sustainable future together, meeting the challenges of rising costs while expanding our impact.

Thank you for prayerfully considering your pledge for 2026.
Completed pledges requested by Sunday, October 19, 2025

UAB Choral Concert - October 17

6:00 p.m. in the Sanctuary

Highlands is pleased to host The Choral Collage, UAB Choral Department's fall concert on Friday, October 17 at 6 pm. The concert will feature the UAB Concert Choir, Chamber Choir, and the Gospel Choir under the direction of Brian Kittredge, Reginald Jackson, and Elizabeth Fisher.

Subject: Join Us for a Weekly Bible Study at Highlands United Methodist Church!

We are excited to invite you to our upcoming weekly Bible Study this fall at Highlands United Methodist Church! Join us on Tuesdays at 11:45 a.m. in Room 204, as we will embark on a meaningful journey through the Old Testament books of Genesis and Exodus.

Why Genesis and Exodus?

These books are foundational works of the Judeo-Christian faith, shaping our understanding of God, humanity, and moral principles. They have profoundly influenced countless lives and movements throughout history, including the Civil Rights Movement, as they speak to themes of freedom, justice, and divine promise.

This Fall, we will dive deeply into these sacred texts, enriching our study with insights from contemporary theologians and modern writers. Together, we will explore the historical context, literary elements, and spiritual lessons that continue to resonate today.

Join Us for Lunch!

We encourage you to arrive at 11:45 a.m. to enjoy a delicious meal prepared by PJ, Ali, and the Good to Go crew, available for $12. Please note that lunch reservations are required to ensure we have enough food for everyone.  Suzanne Hoye will collect reservations.

We hope you will join us for this enriching experience as we gather in fellowship and deepen our understanding of these foundational scriptures that still speak to us today.

United Women in Faith Meeting - October 13

United Women in Faith will meet Monday, October 13 at 11 am in the Chapel. October is UWF World Thank Offering month, and Reggie Holder will speak after our business. Lunch will follow in the Fellowship Hall for $12 with RSVP.

Contact: Marion Lagman – mlagman@gmail.com.

Lunch RSVP: Dinah Hughes – dgomes02@yahoo.com

Heart & Hand Sunday - October 12

Our next Heart & Hand Sunday is October 12! We will be Weaving Together Friendships - blending together the "work of the heart" and the "work of the hands" to create friendship bracelets and strengthen the bonds of friendship between our church members. Join us for singing, crafting, storytelling, and fellowship with your Highlands friends. Truly an activity for all ages! Come to the Fellowship Hall at 9:30 am on October 12 to take part!

There will be no other Sunday School offerings this Sunday! The nursery is available for children age 4 and younger starting at 9:30 a.m. Children should accompany their parents to worship and will be dismissed to Children's Choir following the Children's Moment.

Subject: Join Us for a Weekly Bible Study at Highlands United Methodist Church!

We are excited to invite you to our upcoming weekly Bible Study this fall at Highlands United Methodist Church! Join us on Tuesdays at 11:45 a.m. in Room 204, as we will embark on a meaningful journey through the Old Testament books of Genesis and Exodus.

Why Genesis and Exodus?

These books are foundational works of the Judeo-Christian faith, shaping our understanding of God, humanity, and moral principles. They have profoundly influenced countless lives and movements throughout history, including the Civil Rights Movement, as they speak to themes of freedom, justice, and divine promise.

This Fall, we will dive deeply into these sacred texts, enriching our study with insights from contemporary theologians and modern writers. Together, we will explore the historical context, literary elements, and spiritual lessons that continue to resonate today.

Join Us for Lunch!

We encourage you to arrive at 11:45 a.m. to enjoy a delicious meal prepared by PJ, Ali, and the Good to Go crew, available for $12. Please note that lunch reservations are required to ensure we have enough food for everyone.  Suzanne Hoye will collect reservations.

We hope you will join us for this enriching experience as we gather in fellowship and deepen our understanding of these foundational scriptures that still speak to us today.

Front Door Sunday

Enter the Sanctuary through the front doors every first Sunday of the month. We are working to improve our visibility in the Five Points South neighborhood, so join us on the front lawn once a month.

Subject: Join Us for a Weekly Bible Study at Highlands United Methodist Church!

We are excited to invite you to our upcoming weekly Bible Study this fall at Highlands United Methodist Church! Join us on Tuesdays at 11:45 a.m. in Room 204, as we will embark on a meaningful journey through the Old Testament books of Genesis and Exodus.

Why Genesis and Exodus?

These books are foundational works of the Judeo-Christian faith, shaping our understanding of God, humanity, and moral principles. They have profoundly influenced countless lives and movements throughout history, including the Civil Rights Movement, as they speak to themes of freedom, justice, and divine promise.

This Fall, we will dive deeply into these sacred texts, enriching our study with insights from contemporary theologians and modern writers. Together, we will explore the historical context, literary elements, and spiritual lessons that continue to resonate today.

Join Us for Lunch!

We encourage you to arrive at 11:45 a.m. to enjoy a delicious meal prepared by PJ, Ali, and the Good to Go crew, available for $12. Please note that lunch reservations are required to ensure we have enough food for everyone.  Suzanne Hoye will collect reservations.

We hope you will join us for this enriching experience as we gather in fellowship and deepen our understanding of these foundational scriptures that still speak to us today.

Subject: Join Us for a Weekly Bible Study at Highlands United Methodist Church!

We are excited to invite you to our upcoming weekly Bible Study this fall at Highlands United Methodist Church! Join us on Tuesdays at 11:45 a.m. in Room 204, as we will embark on a meaningful journey through the Old Testament books of Genesis and Exodus.

Why Genesis and Exodus?

These books are foundational works of the Judeo-Christian faith, shaping our understanding of God, humanity, and moral principles. They have profoundly influenced countless lives and movements throughout history, including the Civil Rights Movement, as they speak to themes of freedom, justice, and divine promise.

This Fall, we will dive deeply into these sacred texts, enriching our study with insights from contemporary theologians and modern writers. Together, we will explore the historical context, literary elements, and spiritual lessons that continue to resonate today.

Join Us for Lunch!

We encourage you to arrive at 11:45 a.m. to enjoy a delicious meal prepared by PJ, Ali, and the Good to Go crew, available for $12. Please note that lunch reservations are required to ensure we have enough food for everyone.  Suzanne Hoye will collect reservations.

We hope you will join us for this enriching experience as we gather in fellowship and deepen our understanding of these foundational scriptures that still speak to us today.

Church Council Meeting - September 21

The Church Council will meet on Sunday, September 21 in the Fellowship Hall worship. The meeting will follow the Third Sunday Potluck lunch. 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. The Church Council will meet following the meal.

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

Subject: Join Us for a Weekly Bible Study at Highlands United Methodist Church!

We are excited to invite you to our upcoming weekly Bible Study this fall at Highlands United Methodist Church! Join us on Tuesdays at 11:45 a.m. in Room 204, as we will embark on a meaningful journey through the Old Testament books of Genesis and Exodus.

Why Genesis and Exodus?

These books are foundational works of the Judeo-Christian faith, shaping our understanding of God, humanity, and moral principles. They have profoundly influenced countless lives and movements throughout history, including the Civil Rights Movement, as they speak to themes of freedom, justice, and divine promise.

This Fall, we will dive deeply into these sacred texts, enriching our study with insights from contemporary theologians and modern writers. Together, we will explore the historical context, literary elements, and spiritual lessons that continue to resonate today.

Join Us for Lunch!

We encourage you to arrive at 11:45 a.m. to enjoy a delicious meal prepared by PJ, Ali, and the Good to Go crew, available for $12. Please note that lunch reservations are required to ensure we have enough food for everyone.  Suzanne Hoye will collect reservations.

We hope you will join us for this enriching experience as we gather in fellowship and deepen our understanding of these foundational scriptures that still speak to us today.

Subject: Join Us for a Weekly Bible Study at Highlands United Methodist Church!

We are excited to invite you to our upcoming weekly Bible Study this fall at Highlands United Methodist Church! Starting on Tuesday, September 9 at 11:45 a.m. in Room 204, we will embark on a meaningful journey through the Old Testament books of Genesis and Exodus.

Why Genesis and Exodus?

These books are foundational works of the Judeo-Christian faith, shaping our understanding of God, humanity, and moral principles. They have profoundly influenced countless lives and movements throughout history, including the Civil Rights Movement, as they speak to themes of freedom, justice, and divine promise.

This Fall, we will dive deeply into these sacred texts, enriching our study with insights from contemporary theologians and modern writers. Together, we will explore the historical context, literary elements, and spiritual lessons that continue to resonate today.

Join Us for Lunch!

We encourage you to arrive at 11:45 a.m. to enjoy a delicious meal prepared by PJ, Ali, and the Good to Go crew, available for $12. Please note that lunch reservations are required to ensure we have enough food for everyone.  Suzanne Hoye will collect reservations.

We hope you will join us for this enriching experience as we gather in fellowship and deepen our understanding of these foundational scriptures that still speak to us today.

United Women in Faith Vespers Dinner - Sept. 8

Please join the United Women in Faith for dinner and a Vespers service on Monday, September 8 at 5:30 pm. Rev. Mikah Hudson will be leading the service from his experience in Iona and Rick Phillips will be leading our music. Dinner will be served at 5:30 pm for the cost of $12. We hope all will join us for this very special service!

Dinner RSVP: Dinah Hughes –dgomes02@yahoo.com

Contact: Marion Lagman – mlagman@gmail.com

On Sunday, September 7 after worship, we invite all parents of Atrium-aged children to a Lunch & Learn presentation. Our lead catechists will share insights into what your children will be learning this year in each level of the Atrium, and Camille Caldwell Morris, a former teacher at Creative Montessori, will share an introduction to the Montessori method which we use to guide all interactions in the Atrium. Childcare will be provided during the presentation.

Contact: Mary Elizabeth Neal – maryelizabeth@highlandsumc.net

Adult Christian Formation Fall Classes - Begin September 7

Fall Sunday School and Bible Study Classes for Adults begin the week of September 7. All adults are invited to join one of our spiritual formation classes offered this Fall. Being part of a fall class or small group focused on Adult Christian Formation offers a unique opportunity for spiritual growth and deepening one's faith.

Fall 2025 ACF Studies Flyer

Bring A Friend Sunday - September 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, September 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. If you have friends with children, there is also an Atrium Lunch and Learn that day with childcare provided. Let's all extend our love into the community by welcoming friends and neighbors to Highlands!

The church office and Child Development Center will be closed on Monday, September 1 in observance of Labor Day.