It’s amazing to think that Tamera and I reached our 20th year of ministry at Ashland Church. God’s mercy and grace has been so evident to us over these years we have been with you. Our time has been a mixture of many blessings and has also included different challenges as well, and as I think through this past year, two words seem to come to mind, Transformation and Renewal, both of which describe a work of the Holy Spirit which he accomplishes in the life of believers and the church. I have seen His work in our church family this year, for which I am very thankful.
One big transformation we have seen this year is the uniting of Ashland and Park Avenue Churches. Our two congregations had already experienced a wonderfully sweet connection as our ministries seem to be intertwined. We had already celebrated much fellowship, outreach, and special times of worship, as well as shared a common vision and mission. This union has strengthened both our churches, and I am thankful for the many new members of Ashland and also for the presence of “retired” Pastor Glenn Marshall, who has been and continues to be an immeasurable encouragement to me over these past 20 years.
This was also a year of re-engagement of ministry and fellowship as the hindrances of pandemic began to lift. Both starts and re-starts are always a challenge, and through the efforts of so many of you, God is restoring fellowship in our church as well as bringing new people into our family. I pray that you will be encouraged as you look through this report and see all that God has accomplished through our church.
This blessing was also met with mourning as we saw some of our dear saints depart this world, and yet we always remember the joy set before us which they now experience. There was also the realization that some had not returned to our family, and they are truly missed. This is a story that I hear from many of my pastor friends, and we pray for a day to welcome them back into our fellowship. To borrow a phrase, “we’ll leave the light on for you.” Ashland church has open doors to God’s people, and we pray that all his Children will experience His love.
I’m writing this as my sabbatical is about to begin, and you will probably not receive this until I am away. First, I want to thank the church for allowing me this time of renewal and repurposing. Also, I want you to know that you are in my heart, I love Ashland Church, and you are so much a part of me. I know that I will miss you as I engage in other activities and ministries while I am not with you, and I will pray for you and the continued growth and work of the Church. I ask that you also pray for me and my family that God would restore, guide, and protect us. May we all know his power and loving presence through these days, and I eagerly await the day when we will be together again.
Its great to be your Pastor, Jamie