Ashland Place

UNITED METHODIST CHURCH

May 21, 2026

E-News

A mid-week word from Pastor Darren...

The Alabama-West Florida Conference of the United Methodist Church will hold its 2026 Annual Conference session Sunday, June 7-Tuesday, June 9 at the First United Methodist Church in Pensacola, FL.

This year’s theme is, “Empowered by The Spirit” and highlights of the conference will include:

• The Service of Commissioning and Ordination (Monday, June 8 at 7PM)

Our own Rev. Jennifer Porto will be commissioned as Provisional Elder at this year’s service. All are welcome to make the trip for this special occasion.

• Reports from international missionaries and regional ministries of the United

Methodist Church.

• Awards to churches, pastors and laity for evangelism, disaster relief, local

heritage, and support of women in ministry (Monday and Tuesday)

The missional offering will go towards the Miracle Offering. The Miracle Offering is a worldwide offering in support of theological education for clergy in Africa, Europe, and the Philippines.

Our bishop, Jonathan Holston will preach the opening worship service and preside over all business sessions. Bishop Mande Muyombo of the North Katanga-Tanzania Annual Conference will preach at the ordination service.

For those who are interested, further information with a complete agenda can be found at www.awfumc.org. In addition to your pastors, Ashland Place UMC will be represented by our primary and reserve lay delegates: Kathy McMaken, George Hardesty, and Phebe Lee.

I am looking forward to this year’s Annual Conference!

                                                                              Darren

For this coming Sunday's bulletin...

A thank you from Chee Chee Street...

“Thank you Ashland Place staff and congregation for the wonderful celebration of my 50 years service to the children of Ashland Place and the community. I was overwhelmed with the love and appreciation and look forward to many more years of sharing God’s love with His little ones.” 

VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL ANNOUNCEMENT

After much consideration, we have made the difficult decision to cancel this summer’s Vacation Bible School. Unfortunately, the number of volunteers available relative to the number of children registered would not allow us to provide the safe and supportive environment our children deserve.

We know many families were looking forward to this event, and we share in that disappointment. However, the safety and well-being of our children must remain our highest priority.

We are grateful for everyone who expressed interest in volunteering and for the families who registered their children. Be on the lookout for new developments with our children's ministry later this summer.

Thank you for your understanding and continued support.

This summer, children who have completed 3rd–5th grade are invited to an unforgettable week at Blue Lake’s "Camp Blast!" The camp dates are July 20–24 and will include days packed with fun, faith, and friendship. From swimming and gaga ball to lakeside devotions and creative crafts, our children will have the opportunity to draw closer to God, learn more about God's love, and encourage one another in their faith. More details about the trip will be shared in the coming weeks!



Think your child would love this adventure? Sign up using the link below, and be sure to let Pastors Darren and Jennifer know once you have registered!

Pastor Darren and Joseph Griggs are planning a backpacking trip for youth (rising 6th graders-2026 graduates) through the mountains of Virginia.

The dates are June 19-26 (includes travel time).

WEEKLY YOUTH HAPPENINGS

Sunday School (10:00am)

Sunday evening fellowship (5:00pm)