Weekly Update // Pastor Will

Hi Friends,

I believe I’ve shared this before, so my apologies if it’s repetitive, but I wanted to take a moment to talk about Second Sundays. This is a monthly gathering for our youth ministry that happens on the second Sunday of each month at 11:00 a.m. We chose the second Sunday because the first Sunday is typically Communion, and we wanted to leave that open. Plus, our adult volunteers are available, and “Second Sunday” has a nice ring to it!

I like to think of youth ministry as a cone or funnel. The wide top can hold a lot of students and represents events like Second Sundays. These gatherings intentionally have a lighter focus on spiritual elements, making it easy for students to bring their friends and experience the warmth of our church. I see these events as community builders—opportunities to strengthen relationships among students, adults, and new friends.

This approach aligns with Paul’s words in Romans 10:24-25 (NLT):
"Let us think of ways to motivate one another to acts of love and good works. And let us not neglect our meeting together, as some people do, but encourage one another, especially now that the day of his return is drawing near."

As we move down the cone, we increase the spiritual depth. For example, our Wednesday night program is about halfway down—still a good mix of community-building and spirituality. At the narrowest point of the cone are activities like Bible study or mission trips, where spiritual growth is the primary goal. Thinking of youth ministry this way helps me strike a balance between community and spiritual elements in each event.

Second Sundays have been a great success. They allow youth and adults to connect, share a meal, spend meaningful time together, and even learn to cook. These relationships often extend beyond church, giving students peers they can rely on during tough times. While I’d love for them to call me or an adult leader first, it’s more likely they’ll reach out to a youth group friend—and that’s the kind of supportive community we’re building.

I’ve also loved seeing students who might not otherwise attend church join us for Second Sundays. It gives their parents the opportunity to attend a service and helps the students establish a rhythm of attending church. Some even come to the 9:30 a.m. service beforehand!

Switching gears—as I mentioned in my sermon this past week, I’m thrilled to have Durwood joining us this week! I’ve had some great conversations with him, and I think we’re in for a treat. He’ll be preaching this Sunday, so make plans to join us at either the 9:30 a.m. Celebration/Contemporary Service or the 11:00 a.m. Traditional Service. Both will also be live-streamed if you can’t make it in person.

Two quick things before I go:

1. We’ve seen a need for a quiet space on Sundays, so the Altar Guildis opening the Prayer Chapel (across the hall from the Sanctuary) on Sunday mornings. You’re welcome to spend time with God there before or after the service. The altar candles will be lit, and you’re invited to light a candle in honor of a loved one.

2. A reminder that Lenten Devotionals are due by Friday, January 24th. We still need a few more, so if you’re on the fence, now’s the time to commit!

That’s all for now. Let’s give Durwood a warm Asbury welcome this Sunday, and I look forward to seeing you at worship!

Thanks and God bless,
Will

Weekly Update // Pastor Will

Hi Friends,

Last Sunday was truly a joy for so many reasons, but I’d like to name my top two.

First, we were all together worshiping God, and the energy in the room was incredible. I deeply felt the presence of the Spirit moving among us.

Second, there was both gladness and sadness. While gladness is easy to embrace, sadness also has its place. We celebrated and said goodbye to Chris, who has faithfully taught and led us in Christ for many years. We are sad because we know how blessed we’ve been to have him and how much we will miss him—and that’s a good thing. It’s okay to grieve and wish he weren’t leaving, but ultimately, let’s give thanks—to Chris for his ministry and to God for the time we’ve shared together.

Chris also wanted to share a message with you all, which you’ll find later in this email.

Looking ahead, I feel a deep sense of hope. God has been and continues to be with us on this journey. My sermon this Sunday will focus on Joshua and the “passing of the torch” from Moses as Joshua leads the Israelites into the Promised Land. While our situation is different, this story reminds us that God always walks with us and keeps His promises. I hope you’ll join us at either our 9:30 a.m. Celebration/Contemporary Service or our 11:00 a.m. Traditional Service, both live-streamed on YouTube and Facebook.

Next week, we’ll welcome Durwood into our congregation as he steps in to lead us over the next six months. Just as you’ve welcomed Chris, me, and our families, I know you’ll embrace Durwood with the same warmth and love that define our congregation.

Take care of yourselves and continue to trust in God’s promises.

Thanks and be blessed!

Pastor Will

Dear Asbury Family,

My family and I want to thank you for the outpouring of love you demonstrated last Sunday. Your cards, kind words, and expressions of generosity touched our hearts deeply. I wish there were time to thank each of you individually, but please know how much your support means to us.

As we move into this next chapter of life and ministry, we carry with us the warmth and encouragement of this incredible church family. You have blessed us in more ways than we can count, and we are forever grateful.

With heartfelt thanks,

Pastor Chris Jones

Weekly Update // Pastor Chris

Dear Asbury Family,

 This is the last time I’ll be writing to you as one of your appointed clergy. While I remain a United Methodist pastor, my path is shifting—soon, I will no longer be under appointment to a local church. Instead, I will be serving as a chaplain in the United States Air Force.

 Many of you have asked how this new call came about, and it’s a great question. Truthfully, I think it began during my early years of ministry, as I walked alongside veterans in the churches I served and listened to their stories of service and sacrifice. Their experiences deeply moved me and planted seeds that I didn’t fully understand at the time.

 In 2014, as I prepared for ordination, I took a leadership assessment designed to help identify where the gifts God has placed in me might be best used. Interestingly, I was the only person in my class to score strongly in a particular area. The facilitator commented, “Someone like you would do well in the military.” I didn’t know what to make of it at the time, but the thought never fully left me.

 A key moment came in June of 2019, when I had a conversation with my colleague, Rev. Aaron Rosseau, a Navy Chaplain. For years, Aaron and I were part of the same covenant group. Knowing my heart for reaching people beyond the church, he asked if I’d ever considered military chaplaincy. At the time, the logistics didn’t seem possible. Amanda’s work wasn’t remote, and I wanted to support her career growth while raising our family.

 Last year, however, things changed. Amanda’s job became fully remote, opening doors we hadn’t imagined before. Aaron and I revisited the idea, and he encouraged me to consider the Air Force, knowing my personality and the opportunities it would provide. With Amanda’s career now adaptable to relocation, and after much prayer and discernment, we felt God leading us to take this leap of faith.

 I recently learned that after I complete Officer Training School, I’ll be serving at Cannon Air Force Base, just outside of Clovis, New Mexico.

 While I’m excited to step into this new chapter, leaving Asbury is bittersweet. Serving alongside you has been one of the greatest privileges of my life, and this congregation will always hold a special place in my heart. From my very first day here, you embraced a spirit of creativity and faithfulness, finding new ways to reach people with the love of Christ.

 Together, by God’s grace, we’ve launched Morning Prayer, expanded our online presence, started community groups, and stood united in God’s Word during a time when the world often felt divided. Through your willingness to adapt, grow, and live out the gospel, God has used each of you to inspire me daily.

 From the bottom of my heart, thank you for teaching me what it means to follow Jesus more deeply.

 I hope you’ll join us for one final worship service together on Sunday, January 5, at 10 a.m. My sermon that day is titled “Just a Few Things,” because there are just a few more things I want to share before I leave.

Until then, please know you’re in my prayers. Be safe, stay grounded in God’s love, and continue to be the incredible community you’ve always been.

Blessings,
Chris

Weekly Update // Pastor Will

 Hi friends,

One of the things I love so much about Christmas time is the change of pace it brings. While December often feels busy with parties and get-togethers, there’s usually a quiet lull in the day or two before Christmas Eve. By then, most of the parties have wrapped up, the shopping is (hopefully!) done, and, in our case, the bulletins for the Christmas Eve service are printed (I’m writing this on Monday, in case you were curious).

Before we know it, the Christmas Eve services will begin—a time to see old friends back in town, share the Christmas spirit, and, of course, light the candles and sing "Silent Night." There are so many metaphors we can draw from this moment, but the one that always stands out to me is theological: we light our candles from the Christ candle, representing Jesus, the Light of the World (John 8:12). From there, we pass the flame to one another until every candle is lit.

It’s a beautiful reminder that while our small candle may seem insignificant on its own, together, our lights illuminate the room with a stunning glow. As a pastor, I’m blessed to witness this up close, but what I love even more is stepping back to see the collective brightness of the candles and the joy on each face.

By the time you read this, you’ll likely be able to reflect on those same moments from our Christmas Eve services. I pray that as you celebrate Christmas Day and the days that follow, they are filled with love, peace, joy, and the light of Christ—all the gifts He brings to help us live life to the fullest.

After Christmas, we’ll ease into a slower pace with two single-service Sundays in a row. Both services will be at 10 AM in the Sanctuary. On December 29, we’ll have the pleasure of hearing from Charles Row, and on January 5, Pastor Chris will give his final sermon at Asbury.

We know January 5th will be an emotional one, but we do hope you can join us so we can say our good-byes to Pastor Chris.

In the meantime, I wish you all a wonderful and blessed Christmas and New Year. I look forward to seeing you soon!

Blessings,
Pastor Will

Weekly Update // Pastor Chris

 Dear Asbury Family,

I know this is a busy time of year, but I wanted to take a moment to highlight a few important ways we can reflect God’s generosity together.

This Sunday marks March to the Manger, a beloved Asbury tradition where we bring a gift to the altar in celebration of the newborn King. This year, our offering will support Central Florida Wesley, a United Methodist campus ministry serving college students in the Orlando area. Amanda and I are excited to see how our gift, along with the contributions of others in our church, will help support this transformative ministry.

Additionally, it's not too late to make your 2024 contribution to Asbury. As we approach the end of the year, we are facing a deficit, and we hope to close this gap as much as possible. Please remember that contributions are tax-deductible but must be received by the end of the year to be included in your 2024 return.

While we have received a number of Commitment Cards, we hope to receive more in the coming weeks. These cards help us plan for the future and set our budget for 2025. I understand that some who give may choose not to fill out a card for various reasons, but please recognize that just as families and individuals plan their budgets based on expected income, our church must do the same. God calls us to trust him, but he also calls us to commit our resources to him without wavering. These cards are a tangible way for us to reflect our commitment to Christ and to the church.

Thank you for your continued generosity and support! I look forward to seeing you this Sunday as we gather to worship, celebrate the season, and honor our Savior.

Blessings,
Chris

Weekly Update // Pastor Chris

Dear Asbury Family,

A church in a small urban neighborhood wanted to help improve education for local kids. The pastor and congregation decided the best way to make an impact was to build a tutoring center on their property. Excited about the idea, they began fundraising and drawing up plans. But before moving forward, a wise member of the church suggested they spend time in prayer and conversation with the community to discern what God was already doing.

As they listened to parents, teachers, and community leaders, they discovered something surprising: retired educators in the neighborhood were already tutoring kids after school, but they lacked a consistent, safe place to meet. The church realized that instead of building something new, they could open their underused fellowship hall to host the tutoring sessions.

By partnering with these educators and providing space, the church didn’t just meet a need—they built deeper relationships with the community and joined in what God was already doing through the teachers’ efforts. The ministry grew, and the fellowship hall became a bustling hub of activity where students received help and families felt welcomed into the church’s mission.

This story reminds us that, as Christians, our role isn’t to impose our plans or agendas but to pray, discern, and join in the work God is already doing in the world around us. It’s a lesson I’ve needed to relearn at times in my own ministry. It can be so easy to come into a church or ministry setting with big ideas for what we think should change or improve. But when we push ahead without first seeking to understand how God is already at work, we risk missing the beauty of what God is already doing in and through the people around us.

When I arrived at Asbury four years ago, I brought hopes and dreams for what our church could become. But I quickly discovered that God was already doing incredible things here and was calling me to join you in discerning how we could grow in faithfulness together.

This reminds me of Paul’s words in Philippians 1:6 (NLT): “And I am certain that God, who began the good work within you, will continue his work until it is finally finished on the day when Christ Jesus returns.” God’s good work was alive in this church long before I arrived, and it continues to unfold in ways that inspire me.

As I prepare to transition to my next chapter in the Air Force chaplaincy, I carry with me deep gratitude for having served alongside you. Over these years, I’ve seen God at work through the warmth of your welcome, the care you extend to one another, and the ways you reach beyond our walls to serve our neighbors. Whether it’s the laughter of children in Sunday School, the faithfulness of our community groups, or the generosity you show in so many ways, God’s Spirit is moving among us, shaping us into a church that reflects Christ’s love.

As we look to the future, I encourage us to keep asking, “What is God doing here?” and to remain open to how we can join in that work. Proverbs 3:5-6 (NLT) reminds us, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Seek his will in all you do, and he will show you which path to take.” I believe that as we continue trusting God’s guidance, we will see lives transformed and faith deepened in remarkable ways.

Thank you for being part of this journey. I am deeply grateful for the time I’ve spent with you and for the ways God has worked through this church. It has been an honor to serve as one of your pastors and to be part of this incredible community. 

Blessings,

Chris

Weekly Update // Pastor Will

Hi Friends,

When I first arrived at Asbury in 2021, I was awestruck by the rich traditions that make our church so special. The deep culture here has been lovingly crafted by the people who call Asbury home. One tradition that stood out to me was March to the Manger—a beautiful both/and of a metaphorical and physical procession toward Christ’s manger, where we present our humble offerings to the newborn King.

Each year, our church leadership designates a mission or organization to support through this tradition. This year, we’re excited to focus on Central Florida Wesley, a United Methodist college ministry serving UCF, Valencia, and other nearby colleges. This ministry has blessed Asbury in countless ways. We’ve heard their director, Rev. Erwin Lopez, preach during Sunday worship and speak to our United Methodist Men. Their internship program has also been a gift to our church.

In my time here, we’ve partnered with Central Florida Wesley to welcome incredible interns. The work Central Florida Wesley does extends far beyond the college campuses, and it’s clear how impactful their ministry is. Thank you for your generosity in the past, and for the support I know you’ll continue to show. Pastor Chris will share more about their ministry soon in a letter!

We’ll celebrate March to the Manger on December 22nd during both our morning services—9:30 am (Contemporary) and 11:00 am (Traditional).

Before then, we have a few exciting events to highlight. This Saturday, December 7th, the United Methodist Men will meet at 7:30 am for breakfast, fellowship, and a message from Jim Esch. Immediately following, at 9:30 am, we will hold a campus cleanup day. This is a wonderful opportunity to show pride in our beautiful campus as we work together to prepare it for the season. Snacks and water will be available as we make light work of what needs to be done.

On Sunday, December 8th, Pastor Chris will continue our Advent series, The Journey, as we reflect on the story of Christ’s birth, focusing on Joseph and his relationship with Mary. At 10:30 am, in between services, we’ll gather in the Narthex for Christmas Around the World. This special event invites us to explore and celebrate the diverse cultures and traditions within our congregation. Later that afternoon, at 4:00 pm, we’ll hold our Blue Christmas Service. This service provides a sacred space to process feelings of loss, grief, or sadness that often accompany the season. Though typically aligned with the Winter Solstice (December 21st), we’ve moved it forward this year to offer this time of reflection earlier in the season.

Whew! That’s a lot, but that’s Asbury—a church with a rich tradition and a vibrant community. As always, let us know if you have any questions. Be blessed, and we’ll see you Sunday!

Thanks,
Pastor Will

Peace in Christ,

Weekly Update // Pastor Will

Hi everyone!

Many of us will gather around tables filled with turkey, stuffing, and pumpkin pie (one of my favorites!), surrounded by family and friends. These moments are about more than just the meal—they’re about sharing stories, laughter, and love. But Thanksgiving also offers an opportunity to consider how we can share our blessings with others.

Gratitude is more than just an emotion; it’s an action. When we recognize God’s abundant provision, we are called to respond by being a blessing to others. Thanksgiving reminds us that gratitude grows deeper when it inspires us to give generously and live with open hearts and hands.

This spirit of gratitude was beautifully reflected this past Sunday during our combined service. It was a joy to gather in the Sanctuary and online for Commitment Sunday, celebrate a baptism, and share a meal at the potluck afterward. We at Asbury are so grateful for each of you. You make Asbury such a wonderful place to worship our generous and gracious God!

As we celebrate Thanksgiving this week, let’s remember that God’s provision is abundant, and His care for us is steadfast. May we not only give thanks but also seek His Kingdom in how we live, serve, and share with those around us.

Advent is Here!

This coming Sunday marks the beginning of Advent, a season of preparation and anticipation leading up to the celebration of Jesus Christ’s birth at Christmas. It spans the four Sundays before Christmas and focuses on themes of hope, peace, joy, and love, symbolized by the lighting of candles on the Advent wreath each week.

In previous years, there’s been a week between Thanksgiving and Advent, but not this year! Our Advent series, The Journey: Walking the Road to Bethlehem, will explore the key figures and events leading to the birth of our King. It’s an exciting time as we come together to worship and celebrate in beautifully decorated spaces.

We invite you to join us for either our 9:30 AM Celebration/Contemporary service or our 11:00 AM Traditional service as Pastor Chris kicks off our new series. Online options are also available if you’re unable to attend in person.

In the meantime, have a happy and blessed Thanksgiving as we recognize all the ways God has poured His blessings into our lives.

With gratitude,

Pastor Will

Weekly Update // Pastor Chris

Dear Asbury Family,

I first experienced my call to pastoral ministry when I was 16. During the first half of high school, I went through a period of doubt and struggle, convinced that once I graduated and went off to college, I would stop attending church—after all, my parents wouldn’t be around to make me go. But then I attended a retreat that completely changed my perspective. Shortly after the retreat, I thought to myself, “If the Christian story is true—and I believe it is—if God really raised Jesus from the dead—and I believe God did—then this demands nothing less than the full commitment of my life.” From that moment, my call to pastoral ministry began to take shape. I sensed God inviting me to help others make that same life-changing commitment.

Wat I’ve come to realize over the years, however, is that the people I serve often teach me more about true commitment than I could ever teach them. I’ve visited people in the hospital on a Saturday who, in the midst of their illness, have said to me, “Pastor, I hope to be discharged today so I can make it to church tomorrow.” I remember a church member who lived a modest lifestyle, scrimping and saving every dollar she could to help the congregation meet its financial needs. In a world that constantly pressures us to prioritize so many things over faith, these acts of devotion stand as powerful reminders of what it really means to commit—to both Jesus and his church.

As C.S. Lewis wrote, “The Christian way is different: harder, and easier. Christ says, ‘Give me all. I don’t want so much of your time and so much of your money and so much of your work: I want you. I have not come to torment your natural self, but to kill it. No half-measures are any good. I don’t want to cut off a branch here and a branch there; I want to have the whole tree down. I don’t want to drill the tooth, or crown it, or stop it, but to have it out. Hand over the whole natural self, all the desires which you think are innocent as well as the ones you think are wicked—the whole outfit. I will give you a new self instead. In fact, I will give you Myself. My own will shall become yours.’”

This Sunday is Commitment Sunday, a day when we come together to commit ourselves to the work of Jesus through Asbury. To be clear, this commitment is not only about our finances, but it does include them. As we prepare to turn in Commitment Cards and reflect on what it means to give our whole selves to God, I encourage you to consider how your time, your talents, and yes, your treasure, can be part of the work God is doing in and through our church.

I look forward to seeing you at our combined service in the sanctuary at 10:45am on Sunday.

Blessings,

Chris

Weekly Update // Pastor Chris

Dear Asbury Family,

We’re in a series called Heart Matters, where we're exploring themes of contentment, generosity, and trusting God with our resources. As we get ready to hear Pastor Will this Sunday, I want to share a story I told last year during our stewardship campaign.

When my siblings and I were growing up, we took karate classes. The studio required us to build endurance by running—not just on our own during the week (that was expected), but with the other students on Saturday mornings. After our Saturday run, my mom would treat us to breakfast at a local bagel shop. One Saturday, when I was about 12, my mom, brother, and I were on our way to get bagels, and as we walked through the parking lot, I spotted a thick envelope on the ground outside a closed restaurant. Curiosity got the best of me, so I picked it up and opened it. Inside was a wad of cash—around $4,500. I later found out this was the restaurant’s earnings from the night before; the manager had been on his way to the bank but accidentally dropped it. I showed the money to my mom, and even though the restaurant was closed, we saw workers inside and were able to return the money to the manager.

A few weeks later, the restaurant owner reached out to us. He wanted to thank us for turning in the money, so he came by our house and gave me a $300 gift certificate to Sports Authority. At 12 years old, that felt like a huge deal! I immediately started planning what I’d buy—definitely a sports watch and probably some new shoes. That’s when my mom looked at me and said, “Christopher, God owns that gift certificate; you’re just the manager. At least 10% of that needs to go to the church.” I thought to myself, How on earth do you tithe off a gift certificate? But, under her direction, I bought essential clothing items, like socks and underwear, and donated them to our church’s clothing ministry.

There are tears in my eyes as I type these words. I thank God for my mother, who taught me an important lesson on generosity that I’ve never forgotten—everything we have, even gift certificates, belongs to God. While our initial tendency (due to sin) is to indulge ourselves with material pleasures, we’re called to lean into grace and resist that urge. We’re invited to look beyond ourselves, see the work of God in our midst, and invest in that work.

More recently, Hannah and Noah, who are 6, have been losing their baby teeth—a fun milestone for children. When they received money from the “Tooth Fairy,” Amanda and I reminded them that 10% needed to go to Asbury. I’m grateful to see that my mom’s legacy lives on in how we’re seeking to raise our children. Generosity isn’t just about what we give; it’s about who we become by God's grace in the process. Each act of giving helps us hold our resources loosely, trusting that God is the true owner.

As we think about turning in our 2025 Commitment Cards on November 24, I invite each of us to consider: How will generosity be reflected in our lives, and how will it shape who we’re becoming?

Looking forward to seeing you Sunday. 

Blessings,
Chris

Weekly Update // Pastor Will

Hi friends!

It was wonderful to worship with you on Sunday! The vibrancy and energy in the services were palpable. Pastor Chris mentioned that the extra hour of sleep did us all some good, and I couldn't agree more! Perhaps we should consider adding an extra hour each week. Too often, we neglect to prioritize rest until it’s too late. One person compared it to a car or machine: if we don’t make time for proper rest and recovery, we may be forced to take it when it’s inconvenient. Even God rested after creating the heavens and the earth, and Jesus often withdrew from the crowds to recharge, sometimes even taking a quick nap. So, remember to rest and take care of yourselves!

As I write this on Tuesday, we approach a significant week in our nation with the presidential election. I want to share a prayer that resonated with me. I came across a prayer by Stanley Hauerwas from Prayers Plainly Spoken, titled “A Prayer on Election Day”:

“Sovereign LORD, foolish we are, believing that we can rule ourselves by selecting this or that person to rule over us. We are at it again. Help us not to think it more significant than it is, but also give us and those we elect enough wisdom to acknowledge our follies. Help us laugh at ourselves, for without humor our politics cannot be humane. We desire to dominate and thus are dominated. Free us, dear Lord, for otherwise we perish. Amen.”

This prayer highlights our tendency to place too much faith in earthly leaders, reminding us that true sovereignty belongs to God. It calls for humility and wisdom to recognize our follies while encouraging us to maintain a sense of humor, as our politics can become inhumane without it. Ultimately, it’s a plea for freedom—not to dominate, but to release our pride and seek divine guidance. My hope is that we can all trust in God to lead us to true justice and peace during this election season.

This week in worship, we will begin our new sermon series, Heart Matters, where we’ll explore themes of contentment, generosity, and trust. This series leads up to turning in our commitment cards on November 24th during our combined service, where Rev. Dr. Simon Osunlana, the Superintendent of the Southeast District, will be preaching. We’ll also have our famous Crock-Luck after the service featuring various chilis and dishes, along with a special baptism that day!

Join us in person if you can! If not, we’ll have our livestream options available via Facebook and YouTube for both our Celebration Service at 9:30 AM and our Traditional Service at 11:00 AM.

See you soon!

Thanks, and God bless!

Pastor Will

Weekly Update // Pastor Chris

Dear Asbury Family,

Happy Halloween!

For those of you who live in neighborhoods with trick-or-treaters, I hope you enjoy the chance to welcome kids as they come by. Growing up, I remember hearing debates about whether it was appropriate for Christians to observe Halloween, given its origins in pre-Christian customs. While it’s true that Halloween didn’t begin as a Christian celebration, it’s also true that some of our Christmas traditions—like Christmas trees (which we, like many churches, place in our worship spaces during Advent and Christmastime), yule logs, mistletoe, and holly—have roots in non-Christian customs.

Over time, the church has creatively adapted many of these practices, viewing them through a Christian lens. For example, evergreen trees, which stay vibrant through winter, can symbolize the eternal life Jesus brings. Halloween offers a similar opportunity: to welcome others, especially children, and treat them with kindness and respect as they visit our homes. Additionally, Halloween connects to All Saints’ Day, celebrated on November 1, inviting us to remember the faithful Christians who have gone before us. John Wesley, whose life and ministry we’re reflecting on in our current sermon series, called All Saints “a festival I truly loved.”

This Sunday in worship, we’ll honor and remember those in our congregation who have joined the church triumphant over the past year. Pastor Will will also conclude our “Revival” sermon series by sharing about John Wesley’s final days and how Methodism took root in America—including the story of our church’s namesake, Francis Asbury. I hope you will join us for what’s sure to be an inspiring day of worship.

Please also keep the family of Nancy Van Horn in your prayers as we gather to celebrate her life this Saturday at 11 a.m. in the sanctuary. Additionally, we have our Men’s Breakfast this Saturday at 7:30 a.m., where Tony Rosenberger, who once served as one of our appointed clergy, will be our speaker. The Men's Brekfast is open to everyone—not just men!

Wishing you a meaningful and safe evening! 

Blessings,

Chris

Weekly Update // Pastor Will

Hi friends,

I generally consider myself an optimist.I tend to see the positive side of things and can usually bounce back when things don’t go my way. However, if I’m not careful, I can slip into skepticism.

This past week, I had the incredible blessing of celebrating my nephew’s wedding in a small town just outside Carrollton, GA. I reunited with family I hadn’t seen in a long time, which was truly nourishing for my soul. We returned home late Sunday evening, and I got to hug my kiddos again—I was on cloud nine! But then reality set in. Looking at my calendar, I realized I had an all-day clergy ethics meeting on Tuesday (rescheduled due to Hurricane Milton) and another clergy gathering in Windermere on Wednesday. It was shaping up to be a busy week, and while I knew both meetings were important, I wasn’t exactly thrilled about how full my schedule had become.

Now, I fully understand that clergy ethics meetings are important, but I found myself wondering if the online session we did in September could have sufficed. I also thought, “Since we’ve already gathered online, couldn’t we just call it even?” I’ll let you guess how that turned out! :) But as I went through the Tuesday training and gathered with my fellow clergy on Wednesday, I realized how necessary it was. Not justto check a box, but for my own benefit—and I imagine many others feel the same.

I want to take a moment to say how grateful I am for the way Asbury loves its pastors. The generosity and love poured out during Pastor Appreciation Month has been overwhelming. So many of you recognize the challenges of ministry and take time to say, “Thank you for what you do. We know it’s not easy.” That means the world to us.

As I reflected on the training and gathering, I couldn’t help but think about how the early Methodists got their name. They were called "Methodists" because of their methodical approach to faith and spiritual disciplines. John Wesley and his followers were intentional in how they lived, prayed, studied, and met together. Their methodical habits weren’t just about routine for the sake of it—they were about being prepared. Prepared to serve, lead, teach, and ultimately respond to God’s call on their lives

In the same way, these clergy meetings and trainings today help us stay equipped for the ministry we are called to. They may not always be exciting, but they’re crucial for keeping us grounded, knowledgeable, and supported in this work. Like the early Methodists, engaging in these rhythms allows us to be better equipped for the challenges and joys of ministry. These practices prepare us to fulfill the good work God has called us to, both individually and as a community.

So, while I may not always be thrilled about back-to-back meetings, I’m thankful for the preparation they provide. And I’m grateful for the support we have from each other as we continue to live out our calling.

Looking ahead, I want to remind you of a couple of events coming up. On Saturday, November 2nd, we have the United Methodist Men’s Breakfast at 7:30 a.m. in the Fellowship Hall, with Tony Rosenburger as the guest speaker. If you missed hearing Tony preach a few months ago—or even if you didn’t—you won’t want to miss this! This event is open to everyone, not just the men of the church.

Additionally, this Sunday, October 27th, we’re hosting a Blood Drive from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. If you’re able to give, it would be a huge help to those in need. Lastly, I want to thank you for your generosity in giving to UMCOR (United Methodist Committee on Relief) to support those affected by recent storms. If you’re able to continue contributing, it would be greatly appreciated.

In worship this Sunday, we’ll continue our Revival series, focusing on how

Methodism cares for the whole person—meeting physical needs like food,

education, and healing, alongside spiritual care. We’d love for you to join us

and maybe bring a friend to either our 9:30 a.m. Contemporary Service or our 11:00 a.m. Traditional Service. Both will also be live-streamed on Facebook and YouTube if you can’t make it in person!

Thank you for all that you do, and for

loving me, my family, and the other pastors and their families as we attend to

the work God has called us to.

Grace and peace,

Pastor Will

Weekly Update // Pastor Chris

Dear Asbury Family,

Like many of you, I’m experiencing hurricane fatigue. These past few weeks have been challenging. While some of us dealt with power outages, leaks, and storm debris, others faced much worse—some members of our congregation experienced tree limbs crashing through windows and roofs. It’s important to remember that the impact is not limited to Central Florida; those in the Gulf region and the mountains of North Carolina continue to endure significant hardships as well. I’ve seen social media posts from colleagues in those areas expressing that their churches and communities may never be the same.

I want to thank you for your prayers and support of UMCOR, our United Methodist Committee on Relief. Our congregation has already raised thousands to assist victims of the recent hurricanes. Your generosity is making a meaningful impact, and together we are providing crucial assistance to those in need. My prayer is that we continue to stand in solidarity with our affected neighbors, showing them they are not alone on this journey of recovery.

Some believe that God sends hurricanes to get our attention. I don’t subscribe to that view. Hurricanes are natural phenomena that occur during a specific season (June 1–November 30) due to warm ocean waters and other environmental factors. Scripture makes it clear that when God wanted to communicate his thoughts, feelings, and attitude toward us, he didn't send a hurricane or any natural disaster; he sent his Son to be our Savior. As we say in our Communion liturgy, quoting Romans 5:8, "Christ died for us while we were yet sinners. That proves God’s love toward us." The life, death, and resurrection of Jesus inform our understanding of God, not the hurricanes that come during this predictable season. God loves humanity and invites us, by grace, to embody the ongoing work of Jesus in the world as we care for those in need.

I’d be remiss if I didn’t highlight the success of the Rummage Sale. In addition to raising money for missions, we practiced good stewardship by repurposing items we no longer want or need. We also opened our campus and provided a fun and enjoyable experience while dealing with the difficulties brought about by Hurricane Milton.

I want to quickly remind you about three upcoming events: our Fall Festival on Friday, October 18, from 5:30 to 7 PM; our Church Conference on Saturday, October 19, at 10 AM; and our choir concert on Sunday, October 20, at 3 PM. It’s going to be a fun and full weekend on our campus!

This Sunday in worship, we’ll continue our Revival series, exploring the stories of John and Charles Wesley and the foundations of Methodism. I will discuss the "secret ingredient" that propelled the Methodist movement and how we can prayerfully apply this to our work as Christians.

I am honored to be one of your pastors. Have a wonderful week!

Blessings,

Chris

 P.S. I won't be at Coffee with the Pastor today, but I hope to see you at the next gathering on October 24.

Weekly Update // Pastor Will

Hi friends,

If you joined us for our Sunday service, you know that we started the morning with several announcements. I tried to get through them quickly, but we still had to cut a few short, especially since we got to celebrate a baptism in our 9:30 am Celebration Service! This reminds me that Asbury United Methodist is a very active church. Normally, we aim for three announcements per Sunday, but we had seven and had to cut some. We are grateful for the ministries and events that take place here and for the leaders who make them happen. I'd like to highlight a few that I didn't get to mention during the service.

The first is Hotdogs by the Lake. This initiative aims to welcome not only our congregation but also members of the local community. Previously held on Thursdays, the new day will be the third Wednesday of each month at the same time. So, mark your calendars for Wednesday, October 16th, from 12:00 pm to 1:15 pm at the Lakeside Chapel. This day is more convenient for our office staff, who work hard to organize this event. I've even heard rumors that Kelly's Ice Cream will be there for the first one. 

Another announcement we didn't get to make is a new Youth Ministry offering on Sunday mornings called Second Sunday. This will take place on the second Sunday of each month in the Youth Room at 11:00 am (although the first one will be at 10:45 am due to the combined service). We plan to have breakfast together (pancakes, waffles, etc.) and spend time together, including a small lesson and maybe some games. It's a chance for us to come together, especially when many of us are already on campus, or to give youth parents a chance to attend the 11 am service. Either way, food, friends, and faith will be involved, so it will be a good time! If you have any questions, email me at PastorWill@AsburyMaitland.org.

As I write this email on Monday afternoon, the plan is to close campus on Tuesday at 2 pm and reopen on Thursday. One of the big events is the rummage sale, which will still happen this weekend. The only adjustment is moving the Asbury Family Sale to Thursday evening instead of Wednesday evening. That means the sale will be open to Asbury folks from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm on Thursday, and open to the public the following morning at 8:00 am!

Other events this month include the Fall Festival on October 18th from 5:30 pm to 7:00 pm on the west side of our campus. If you can provide a trunk or candy, please contact the front office or Laura at Childrensministry@AsburyMaitland.Org. Then, we have Church Conference on Saturday, October 19th, at 10:00 am in the Sanctuary. This is both a review of the past year and a look ahead to 2025. Dr. Rev. Sharon Austin will preside over this, and all Asbury members are encouraged to join and cast their votes on various aspects of the church, including directors, compensation, and more. Finally, we have the Asbury Worship Choir benefit concert "How Can I Keep From Singing?" on Sunday, October 20th, at 3 pm in the Sanctuary. This is to help them raise funds for their various efforts, especially Disney's Candlelight. Please show up and bring a couple of bucks to support them!

Finally, this Sunday, we will continue our Revival sermon series as we look at the beginnings of Methodism, started by John and Charles Wesley. We will have only one service at 10:45 am in the Sanctuary to help our rummage sale team after a busy week. This service will be live-streamed on both YouTube and Facebook if you can't make it in person.

We pray you all stay safe in the upcoming days with the approaching storm and look forward to being with you all again this weekend at both the Rummage Sale and service on Sunday. Take care and God bless!

Thanks,

Pastor Will

Weekly Update // Pastor Will

Hi Friends!

If you joined us last Sunday, you were in for a real treat as our Preschool kids sang for us. It’s always a joy to have them with us—seeing their happy, smiling faces and the energy they bring to our campus each week is such a blessing. Having them as part of Sunday’s service was a true gift. This was all part of our combined service, which featured beautiful contributions from both our Celebration Band and Traditional Choir, followed by a wonderful potluck. I think it was our most well-attended potluck yet, and certainly a reason to plan more! Our next potluck will be just before Thanksgiving on Sunday, November 24th. We’ll remind you as we get closer to the date.

One big event coming up soon is our Rummage Sale—a major tradition at Asbury and a great way to support our missions. It’s a perfect chance to donate some items or maybe find something new! Drop-off begins this Sunday, October 6th, at Noon in the Fellowship Hall, and the sale officially starts on Friday, October 11th, at 8:00 am. On Wednesday, October 9th, from 5:30–7:00 pm, we’ll have a “soft opening” for the Asbury family, so you can browse the items before the official sale. In previous years, we’ve had hotdogs at this event, but this year we’re holding off—so make sure to grab dinner before or after you come.

As usual, after the sale wraps up on Saturday, we’ll need to reset the Fellowship Hall for Sunday. To give our hardworking team a chance to catch their breath, we’ll have another combined service on Sunday, October 13th, at 10:45 am in the Sanctuary. There won’t be a potluck that day, but we invite everyone to take one last look at the remaining sale items—everything will be available by donation. 

We’ve also got some other exciting events coming up! On October 20th, our choir will hold a benefit concert to raise funds for productions like Joseph, Godspell and the upcoming Disney Candlelight program. The concert will be at 3:00 pm in the Sanctuary, and we hope you’ll join us to support our choir’s ministry! A few days earlier, on Friday, October 18th, we’re hosting our Fall Festival from 5:30–7:30 pm on the west side of our campus. It will include Trunk or Treat, crafts, a costume contest, a hayride, and more! No need to sign up—just come and enjoy!

There’s even more happening this month, including a new Hot Dog Day, Church Conference, and the United Methodist Men’s meeting this Saturday. Details for all these events can be found below!

Before I close, I want to mention the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene. The extent of the damage is becoming clearer each day, and we lift up the victims in prayer, especially those who have lost loved ones. We also want to help in any way we can. While it’s difficult to do much from afar, one of the best ways we can assist is by giving to UMCOR (United Methodist Committee on Relief). All funds raised will go directly to help hurricane victims. We’ll be collecting a special offering this Sunday if you are able to give.

This Sunday, we’ll continue our series Revival: Faith as Wesley Lived It, focusing on John and Charles Wesley’s time at Oxford. We’d love for you to join us, either in person or online via Facebook or YouTube. Our services are at 9:30 am (Celebration/Contemporary) and 11:00 am (Traditional).

God bless and have a wonderful weekend!

Pastor Will

Weekly Update // Pastor Chris

Dear Asbury Family,

I hope this message finds you well as we prepare for Tropical Storm Helene, which is expected to strengthen into a hurricane—and it may have already done so by the time you read this email, as I’m writing on Wednesday morning. Please note that our campus is closed today, and all activities for Thursday (including Coffee with the Pastor) are canceled; however, Sunday worship will proceed as planned. As a lifelong Floridian, I understand how unsettling hurricanes can be, so let’s keep one another in our thoughts and prayers during this time, checking in on those who may need extra support.

This Sunday, September 29, we will host a combined service at 10:45 a.m. in the sanctuary, welcoming teachers, students, and families from Asbury Early Learning Center. Following the service, we invite everyone to join us for a potluck, so please bring a side dish or dessert to share!

We’re also excited to kick off a new sermon series titled "Revival: Faith as Wesley Lived It." Our bishop, Tom Berlin—who preached at Asbury earlier this year—has invited all churches in our conference to explore our Methodist heritage. This series, based on Pastor Adam Hamilton’s book, will delve into the origins of Methodism and highlight our core beliefs.

Pastor Will will share insights about life for the Wesley family in early 1700s Epworth, England, where Samuel Wesley served as rector (pastor) and Susanna Wesley homeschooled their children, instilling in them a deep love for Christ.

As we explore what makes Methodism unique, let’s remember that it is just one branch in the rich and diverse family tree of Christianity. Understanding our roots helps us grow deeper in our faith and appreciate the broader Christian tradition we all share.

Lastly, a quick reminder: the Rummage Sale is coming up, and next week is Recycling Week on our campus. You can find details about both events in the announcements section below, and I will highlight them during our combined service.

I look forward to seeing you on Sunday. In the meantime, stay safe and take care!

Blessings,

Chris

Weekly Update // Pastor Will

Hi friends!

One thing I love about the United Methodist Church is our thoughtful approach to decision-making. We have committees in place to ensure the best collective choices are made. While this process can sometimes be criticized for taking longer, the lack of oversight can lead to significant problems if we’re not careful! One recently formed committee is the Emergency Disaster Planning Committee. This group focuses on potential events that could occur and ensures we are well-prepared. While we hope these events never happen, it’s important to be ready.

Proverbs 21:5 (The Message) captures this perfectly:
"Careful planning puts you ahead in the long run; hurry and scurry puts you further behind."

One example we've discussed extensively is the inevitable possibility of a hurricane hitting us. Do we have the proper materials to secure our electronics? Do we know where the main shut-offs for water, electricity, and gas are? What areas need special attention to ensure their safety during a storm? These are the kinds of questions we're addressing to be good stewards of what God has blessed us with—not only for our current congregation but for future generations at Asbury. While these conversations aren't always fun, they are necessary!

We’ll be closing out our current series on Jonah this Sunday, where Pastor Chris will dive into Jonah’s reaction after his time in the belly of the fish—spoiler: it’s a bit of a temper tantrum! I’m looking forward to it, as I know I’ve thrown a few of my own! 😬 Please join us in person or online: 

Have a blessed weekend, and I look forward to seeing you soon!

Blessings,
Pastor Will

Weekly Update // Pastor Chris

Dear Asbury Family,

I’m writing to you on September 10, the day before the 23rd anniversary of the 9/11 attacks. By the time you read this, the anniversary will have passed, but for many of us, the emotions and memories are still vivid. The shock of that day, the sense of vulnerability, and the overwhelming grief remain fresh for those who lost loved ones and for those who served on the front lines. I encourage you to keep praying for those who continue to carry the weight of loss and for those who still bear the physical and emotional scars. As Christians, we are called to be a community that remembers, supports, and lifts each other up in these difficult times.

Reflecting on this, we see how God works through us when we come together during a crisis. We’re reminded of our shared humanity and the grace God shows us, even when we don’t always agree. As we move through a divisive election season, it’s good to remember that unity and compassion are central to our faith. In Romans 12:18, Paul says, "Do all that you can to live in peace with everyone" (NLT). It’s not always easy, but as followers of Jesus, we’re called to extend grace, patience, and understanding—especially to those who see things differently. In doing so, we reflect the love and peace God asks of us.

This Sunday, we’ll continue our series on Jonah. Pastor Will is going to focus on Jonah’s prayer from inside the belly of the fish, where he called out to God in desperation. Some people wonder whether the creature that swallowed Jonah was a fish or a whale. In biblical times, there wasn’t a distinction between marine mammals and fish as we understand it today, so it's often translated simply as a "great fish." What matters most is how Jonah’s story reveals God’s sovereignty and deep love for the world.

I hope you’ll join us for worship, whether in person or online. If you’ve missed any part of the series, you can catch up on our YouTube page (type "Asbury Maitland" in the search bar to locate our church's YouTube page). I’m deeply thankful for this community and how we walk together in faith, supporting one another through the ups and downs of life.

Blessings,

Chris

Weekly Update // Pastor Will

Hi friends,

This week in worship, we kicked off our new sermon series on Jonah, exploring the themes of rebellion and redemption for the protagonist (who sometimes feels like the antagonist!). Pastor Chris reminded us that Jonah is a concise book, encouraging the congregation to read it each week during the series. One person mentioned their surprise at a four-week series for such a short book but was amazed at how much can be gleaned from just a few verses after the first week. It’s a great reminder of the richness of Scripture when we take the time to truly listen.

In a preaching class at Duke, we were asked to spend two hours simply reading and rereading the verses we were preaching on, allowing the text to speak to us. Questions like, “Lord, what do you want to say to me in this text?” and “How can this text be applied to my life?” can open up the beauty of God’s word in new and profound ways.

I hope you’ll join us this Sunday as Pastor Chris delves into how God uses the sailors and more in the story of Jonah. His enthusiasm for this book is contagious! If you can’t join us in person, we’ll be live-streaming our services at 9:30 am (Contemporary) and 11:00 am (Traditional).

Upcoming Events:

• Combined Service: Mark your calendars for Sunday, September 29th, at 10:45 am. We’ll have a potluck afterward because, as Methodists, we love a good potluck! It’s also Preschool Sunday, and we’re excited to welcome many of our preschool families.

• Dinner in Spanish: Join us on Friday, September 20th, at 6:00 pm in the Fellowship Hall. This event has grown each year and has outgrown the Parlor, so we’re excited to host it in a larger space. Stay tuned for more details!

• Men’s Breakfast: This Saturday at 7:30 am in the Fellowship Hall. Bob Showalter will be our speaker, and it promises to be a morning of great fellowship and a delicious breakfast. Bring a couple of bucks and a big appetite!

That’s all for now. We hope and pray you have a blessed weekend, and we’ll see you on Sunday, if not before!

Blessings,
Pastor Will