ASBURY FIRST MONDAY READER | OCTOBER 6, 2025

CONTENTS: SAVE THE DATE: CHURCH CONFERENCE TOWN HALL – OCTOBER 26 | CONNECTING THROUGH VOLUNTEERING

On Sunday, October 26, following worship, we will gather for our annual Church Conference, which in the United Methodist Church is the once-a-year meeting where the whole congregation is invited to participate in the business of the church. Think of it as both a Town Hall and a family meeting: a time to celebrate what God has done among us, to affirm leaders for the coming year, and to take care of essential matters that shape our shared life.


This year’s Church Conference will include:


  • Affirming a Candidate for Ministry as they continue their journey toward ordination


  • The Nominations & Lay Leadership Report, where we present the names of members to serve in key leadership roles


  • Approving the Pastoral Compensation Packages for the year ahead


This will not be a budget or financial meeting--that will take place at the January Town Hall. Instead, we will take time to look back with gratitude at the ministries of this past year, to celebrate the ways God has been at work among us, and to look forward with hope to the year ahead.


We are also delighted to welcome our new District Superintendent, Rev. Richelle Goff, who will preside over the conference and share a word of encouragement with us. This is a wonderful opportunity not only to hear from our new DS but also to show the strength and spirit of Asbury First as we live out our call to “Do More Good.”


Mark your calendars and plan to join us for this important and inspiring gathering. Your voice and presence matter—it is, after all, your Church Conference. Together, let’s celebrate where we’ve been, affirm where we are, and step boldly into where God is calling us next.


One of the most life-giving ways to connect with others—and with your own sense of purpose—is through volunteering. At Asbury First, we believe volunteering is not just about getting the work of the church done, but about building relationships, deepening faith, and discovering joy along the way.


Our Volunteer Engagement Committee exists to make those connections easier. Their role is to listen, guide, and match people’s gifts, skills, and availability with the wide variety of opportunities across our ministries. From welcoming guests on Sunday morning, to helping in the office during the week, to joining a choir, preparing meals, teaching a class, or lending a hand at a community outreach project—there is a place for everyone.


And the best part? Volunteering is flexible. Opportunities range from one-time commitments to ongoing roles, weekday or weekend, front-facing or behind-the-scenes. You can choose what fits your schedule and interests. Many discover that what begins as “helping out” quickly becomes something more: a source of friendships, a sense of belonging, and the satisfaction of making a difference.


Think of the joy on the face of a child welcomed by a Sunday School teacher, or the gratitude of a guest receiving a warm meal in our dining ministry. Consider the quiet relief of a staff member when someone steps in to lend a hand with a project, or the smile of a newcomer greeted warmly at the church door. These are not small things—they are glimpses of God’s love at work through us, and they ripple far beyond the moment of service.


Volunteering also reminds us that faith is meant to be lived. We grow when we step outside our comfort zones, share our talents, and allow ourselves to be needed. Time and again, volunteers tell us that they began serving because they wanted to help, but they continue because of how much they receive in return: encouragement, community, and the deep joy of knowing they’ve made a difference.


We often say that volunteering is a gift to the church—and it is. But it is also a gift to yourself. In giving your time, you may find your own spirit renewed. In sharing your talents, you may discover new strengths. And in serving alongside others, you may find that what you receive is even greater than what you give: joy, connection, and the reminder that together, we are the body of Christ.


If you’re ready to explore where your gifts and passions might connect, the Volunteer Engagement Committee would love to help you find your place. Because when we serve together, we grow together.

Asbury First United Methodist Church

1050 East Avenue, Rochester NY, 14607

(585) 271-1050

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