Welcome to the Ashland District
Welcome to the Ashland District web site. We hope you will find something of interest here. But more important, we pray that you will find a family in one of our many vibrant churches across the Ashland District.
A Word From Your District Superintendent
Dear Friends,
As we head into the summer months I have several thoughts that I want to share:
2009 Annual Conference
- was highlighted for me by the approval of the next step for "All Things New," our Virginia Conference Vision to start 250 Faith Communities in the next 30 years. On Tuesday night of Annual Conference we approved a feasibility study to raise $15 million dollars for the first 15 years of the program. This will not be raised with apportionments or with any quota given to Districts or Local Churches. The method will be based on an individual approach to those lay and clergy who feel a passion to reach out to unchurched folks.
In addition we had over 15 of our churches from the Ashland District sign up for the Five-Talent Academy that will begin this October. My hunch is that we lead the Conference in that category and we also lead the conference for 2008 in the largest percent increase of members. Over all, the Virginia Conference had a positive gain of about 800 members for 2008--THANKS BE TO GOD!!!
July Volunteers in Mission Trip to Mississippi—July 4-11
- I will be taking part in a Volunteers in Mission trip with the Voices of Youth Choir and Bishop Kammerer to Biloxi, Mississippi (same site as our February 2007 Ashland Clergy Trip). Eight District Superintendents along with Bishop Kammerer will be involved in this work.
August School of Congregational Development in Chicago
- for the fourth year in a row I am taking part in this national church growth conference that focuses on starting new faith communities. District Lay Leader Larry Tubbs and John Nelson will also be attending.
I pray that you have some time to rest and re-create this summer. Please keep our pastors and churches (especially those moving) in your prayers around moving day July 1.
Mark
