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.
Worship Series: Purveyors of Awe
Nov. 9 – Connection • Nov. 16 – Self-Giving
Series resumes Jan. 11–Feb. 15
In a world hungry for meaning, many are searching for spiritual depth beyond traditional boundaries. What if awe is the key to a deeper, more connected life? Backed by ancient wisdom and modern science, awe has the power to reshape how we see the world, relate to others, and connect with the divine.
We’ll begin this series by exploring two essential elements of spiritual wellbeing: Connection (Nov. 9) and Self-Giving (Nov. 16). These early reflections will set the stage for the full series continuing in January, inviting us to become Purveyors of Awe—not just for ourselves, but for the healing of our communities.
Connection
November 9, 2025
Scripture: Psalm 149
“Do not feel lonely, the entire universe is inside you. Stop acting so small. You are the universe in ecstatic motion. Set your life on fire. Seek those who fan your flames.” – Rumi
“Experiences [of collective effervescence] contribute to a life filled with less loneliness and greater meaning, positive emotions, and social connection… Collective assembly meets the primal human yearnings for shared social experiences. A collective assembly can start to heal the wounds of a traumatized community. When we come together to share authentic joy, hope, and pain, we melt the pervasive cynicism that often cloaks our better human nature.” – Brené Brown, “Why Experiencing Joy and Pain in a Group Is So Powerful”, Greater Good Magazine
Awe is a gateway to connection. As we have experiences that give us a sense of being part of something larger than “just us,” our penchant for self-preservation and obsession with the competitive default-self gives way to a renewed commitment to the greater whole. We need moments of “collective effervescence” that increase hope and joy at being part of the human family.
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.
Worship in Action
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.
© 2025 Chelsea First UMC
CONTACT US
Chelsea First UMC
128 Park St., Chelsea, MI 48118
📞 (734) 475-8119
✉️ info@chelseaumc.org
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