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 29, 2026 – Palm Sunday
Scripture: Mark 11:1-11
As Passover begins, Jerusalem is filled with parades. One belongs to Rome—grand, armored, and led by power. But another parade winds its way into the city from the Mount of Olives: a humble teacher on a borrowed colt, surrounded not by soldiers, but by ordinary people crying out, “Hosanna!”
Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem is a protest and a proclamation. It’s a procession for the hungry, the poor, the hopeful—for everyone who longs for a better way. The crowd sees in Jesus what Rome could never offer: a leader of compassion, justice, and peace.
This Palm Sunday, we don’t just remember the parade—we join it. We wave palms, we shout “Hosanna,” and we throw our coats down not just in honor, but in commitment. As Holy Week begins, we ask: How will we put Jesus’ teachings into practice? What action will the gospel inspire in us?
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 29:
I wonder: What will I lay down to follow Jesus…
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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