Worship
One Community, Many Voices.In-Person and Online Worship
We offer two unique worship experiences every Sunday—both rooted in connection, music, and spiritual growth.
Our 9:00 am service is casual and family-friendly, with music led by a band and a variety of instruments and vocalists that create a fresh, dynamic sound. Kids and youth help lead on the first Sunday of each month, when we also share in Communion.
Our 11:00 am service offers a more traditional feel, featuring choir, handbells, organ, and piano, along with meaningful readings and prayers. Communion is also celebrated on the first Sunday.
Both services are available in person and via livestream—we’d love to worship with you wherever you are.
March 15, 2026
Scripture: Matthew 19:13-15
In Jesus’ time, children weren’t seen as important—they had no status, no voice. So when parents bring their children to be blessed, the disciples try to send them away. But Jesus stops them: “Let the little children come to me.”
This moment isn’t just sweet—it’s radical. Once again, Jesus disrupts social norms to center those considered least. He lifts up children as models of the kin-dom of heaven, reminding us that faith isn’t found in status, but in trust, humility, and vulnerability.
Throughout Scripture, God calls us to care for the most vulnerable—for the widow, the orphan, the stranger—because we too have known what it is to be in need. This Sunday, we are invited to remember our own vulnerability and to build communities where all can not only be safe but truly thrive.
A Living Cross for Lent
Each Sunday during Lent, you’re invited to take part in a growing visual expression of our shared journey.
After reflecting on the week’s scripture and theme, you’ll have the opportunity to respond to a reflection question. Write your response on a green paper leaf. During worship, you’ll be invited to bring your leaf forward and place it in a basket at the front of the chancel area.
Throughout the week, those leaves will be added to the cross — and over time, the cross will fill with the faithful reflections, prayers, and hopes of our community.
Leaves are available on Sunday mornings and in the church lobby throughout the week.
Add your voice to this beautiful visual reminder that even in the season of Lent, new life is growing among us.
Reflection Question for March 8:
I wonder how I can create space for someone to belong…
Music Ministry
Music Ministry at Chelsea First
At Chelsea First, music is a vital part of how we worship, grow, and serve. Our Music Ministry invites people of all ages to share their gifts in a variety of styles—traditional hymns, anthems, gospel, contemporary praise, and more—all offered to glorify God and inspire our community. As Colossians 3:16 reminds us: “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly… with psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs, singing with gratitude in your hearts to God.”
Sanctuary Choir
The Sanctuary Choir leads worship at the 11 am service from September–May and sings for special events such as Hometown Holidays and Christmas Eve. Open to high school students and adults, the choir shares God’s love through music while enjoying community and fellowship. Rehearsals are Wednesdays at 7 pm and Sundays at 10:15 am.
Rezound Handbell Choir
Rezound Handbell Choir rings five octaves of bells and chimes, offering music monthly at the 11 am service and for special events from September–May. No prior ringing experience is required, though music-reading skills help. Rehearsals are Sundays, 12–1 pm, in the Handbell Room.
For more information about joining any of our ensembles, contact Randy Umfleet, Director of Music Ministries.
Chelsea First
Our church culture
Chelsea First United Methodist Church (Chelsea First) is a Christ-centered congregation with a positive, open, and engaging spirit. We are a church for everyone, at all seasons of life, and bring a grounded, engaged, and supportive approach to Christian worship while working passionately toward making a positive impact in our community.
© 2026 Chelsea First UMC
CONTACT US
Chelsea First UMC
128 Park St., Chelsea, MI 48118
📞 (734) 475-8119
✉️ info@chelseaumc.org
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