Weekly Update // Pastor John

Dear Asbury Family,

What a joy it was to stand before you this past Sunday and preach for the first time as one of your new pastors. I was filled with gratitude and hope—not only for the opportunity to share God’s Word with you, but also for the way so many of you welcomed our family, friends, and me so warmly. Several loved ones joined us for worship, and more than one commented on how genuinely kind and hospitable this church is. That is no small thing in today’s world. Thank you for making them feel at home.

Over the next three weeks, both Emily and I will be preaching from the Gospel of Luke, following the Revised Common Lectionary. These weeks will give us the opportunity to introduce ourselves more deeply, share pieces of our own stories, and begin laying out the vision and values that guide us in ministry. We hope you’ll join us each week as we discover together what God is already doing and what lies ahead.

In the meantime, I encourage you to continue praying for the people in your life—your neighbors, coworkers, classmates—anyone who might need the love and grace of a church like this one. Think about who you can invite. Tell them about the amazing music and Kelly’s Ice Cream!

Behind the scenes, we’ve hit the ground running. We’ve already had our first round of committee and staff meetings, and we are deeply grateful to be serving alongside such gifted, thoughtful, and dedicated leaders. Asbury is blessed with a strong team, and we’re excited to dream, plan, and lead with them in the days ahead.

We’re just getting started—but it already feels like home. Thank you for that.

Shalom,

Pastor John