Weekly Update // Pastor Emily
Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
What an incredible first Sunday we shared together last week at Asbury United Methodist Church! The Shughart family left feeling deeply welcomed, surrounded by love and peace—and for that, we are so grateful. It was truly a gift to worship alongside you all.
On Monday evening, Pastor John and I had the opportunity to spend time with Lynn Ball, the Congregational Vitality Specialist for the Southwest District. Lynn led an onboarding session with many of our church leaders, helping us begin the important work of building relationships and setting a shared direction. On Tuesday, we continued that process with our staff team.
The goal of this time was to accelerate our understanding of one another and the life of this church, so we can move forward faithfully and fruitfully. What Pastor John and I discovered in these conversations is a remarkable community of people who:
Have claimed their place in the family of God
Seek the guidance of the Holy Spirit
Are full of love and grace
Are willing to share honestly and openly about where we’ve been—and where God might be leading us next
To everyone who gave their time and energy to help shape this next season: thank you.
This week, Pastor John will be preaching from Romans 8:14–17.
We invite you to read the passage and reflect on these questions as you prepare for worship:
What does it mean to you to be adopted into the family of God?
What does it mean to be called a child of God?
How has the church made a difference in your life?
Who helped you find your place in God’s family?
We are excited to gather again on Sunday and to continue this journey together. God is doing beautiful work here at Asbury, and we are honored to be a part of it with you.
Grace and Peace,
Pastor Emily