The Cry, the Call!

This Sunday will be my (Kevin Rush) last week preaching before I begin my work in Cleveland and I would love to see you there at 11am.

Here is a recent photo of my family...

If you would like to stay connected with me and my family's ministry you can go to www.planterinthemaking.com, Church Planter in the Making Fan Page, or you can contact me directly via email at kevin@planterinthemaking.com.

If there is anything I can leave you with it is this...

Hear the cry, head the call, and choose to follow Christ!

I will miss you and the ministry of New Hope Ashland dearly. I will do my best to keep in touch.

Angel Tree Drop Off!

This Sunday is our Angel Tree Gift Drop Off! Do not forget to bring your the gift, wrapper, with the tag attached to the outside of the package so we can deliver them to the families in time for Christmas.

May Grace Steal Back Christmas through acts of grace and generosity!

Again I'll ask you, "Does your heart break for the things that break the heart of God?"

Christmas at the Movies Continues!

So far we have looked at our past, present, and future with A Christmas Carol...


and learned about grace-filled generosity with How the Grinch Stole Christmas...


This week we will explore Elf!


You're not going to want to miss this!

Let's All Go to the Cafe!

This Sunday at 11am, as we continue our Christmas at the Movies series, we will be giving away free bags of popcorn!

Also there is soda pop and snacks available for purchase.  Don't forget to stop by the Cafe this Sunday!

Angel Tree

Every year during Christmas we provide gifts for families in need. We call this Angel Tree. This year is no different. If you aren't familiar with Angel Tree it is very simple. Three steps simple...

1. Take a tag from one of the trees in the lobby - on these tags describes what gift you need to buy.
2. Buy the gift and wrap the gifts - attach the tag to the wrapped gift.
3. Bring the wrapped gift back

It's as simple as that! Then we will contact the families to have them pick up their gifts in time for Christmas.

This Sunday (the 13th) is the last Sunday to pick up a tag, and all gifts need to be returned by Sunday, December 20th! Let's make this Christmas a grace-filled and generous one!

A Bittersweet Moment

For those of you who were at NH-Ashland yesterday for service you already know what I'm going to be talking (or more accurately writing) about.

During the service I shared a message about Abram, the one who exalts the father, and how God is present in our past and has a vision for our future. During this message I made an announcement that I will be leaving New Hope Ashland in January and that the search for a new Lead Pastor is already underway.

As many of you know my calling has been and continues to be towards church planting. Early fall of an opportunity was laid before me to be a Church Planting Apprentice at a church on the Eastside of Cleveland. Our plan is to apprentice there for one year as we gear up to launch/plant a church on the Westside of Cleveland. After a lot of prayer, time in the word, and wisdom from my mentors it became clear that this was what God is calling me, and my family to do.

The Leadership Team has been working with Converge Mid-Atlantic for several months to give the church direction and leadership through this transition. A search process has been defined and is underway. We will be rolling out the details in the weeks to come. I ask that you enter into a season of faithful prayer for our Leadership Team, our church, and our future Lead Pastor.

"For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." - Jeremiah 29:11

Don't be afraid. I know that God is at work (as he has always been) at New Hope Ashland and in the heart of your future Pastor. Please know that Sondra, Selah, and I are praying with confidence that God will provide beyond your wildest dreams.

This is a bittersweet moment for me personally. Although I know I am following God's leading, that leading is away from many people whom I love to serve and minister with. Throughout my time here I have been blessed with many friendships and memorable moments. It has been a privilege to lead you and be called your Pastor.  I will not be far away and I will do my best to stay in touch.

Grace and peace to you,
Pastor Kevin Rush

P.S. - If you have questions please contact myself or someone on the Leadership Team. They are here to serve the church through this transition.

Christmas at the Movies

Do you love Christmas movies? Who doesn't!

Grab a bag of popcorn as we explore some of your favorite Christmas movies. Through these timeless films we will identify and explore key biblical themes of faithfulness, gospel generosity, forgiveness, and joy during the holidays.

Join us every Sunday in December at Ashland High School's Little Theater for our brand new series called Christmas at the Movies!

Our worship gatherings start at 11am. 

40 Days of Love Project!

During week 2 of 40 Days of Love we were challenged in our small groups to pick some way we can be a blessing and serve.

It's so great to hear theses stories.

• The youth did a rake and run. Raking leaves throughout the neighborhood.
  
• Another group is going to serve in Children's ministry to give them a break.
• One group is partnering with Samaritan's Purse to give gifts during Christmas.

What is your group doing?

Loving Like the Master

What a awesome time of worship on Sunday! As we continued our second week of the 40 Days of Love series we talked about Loving like the Master, Jesus. That we accept, value, forgive, and believe in others because Jesus accepts, values, forgives, and believes in us.  Don't forget to make an effort to love people who are unaccepted, under valued, unforgiven, and put down this week.

Here are the slides from Sunday...


We also wanted to share the video of Jimmy and Jedd interview AU students. They asked the question... (add Barry White voice) 'What is love?'


Share your Love Stories during this 40 Days!

40 Days of Love - Your Story

We want to hear from you!  What is going on in your small group.  What are you learning?  How are you challenged?  Is God changing the way you love others?  Let us know!

40 Days of Love - Word on the Street!

The first week of 40 Days of Love is underway and it has been nothing short of awesome. Here are some quotes from some of those who attended a small group so far...

It was awesome! I'm in with a great group of people that I didn't know. I am looking forward to getting to know some new people! I'm very excited!

Our host was very good; everyone participated. I can't wait to see what we will learn next week.

I had such a great time learning from one another. God is already challenging me through this, and it is only the first week.

If you missed the first week of small groups, it's not to late to join. Contact your host or give me [Kevin] a call at 419.612.7487 if you are unsure of what group you are in.

Soccer Kicks 4 Kids

in case you missed this past sunday, alex kuenzli was part of our launch for 40 days of love. Her ministry is Soccer Kicks for Kids

a conversation with 12 year old alex about her ministry soccer kicks 4 kids.

40 Days of Love Small Groups Start!

New Hope Ashland is a buzz around the excite that Small Groups are starting this coming week!  We have had over 70 people sign up for small groups and we can't wait for them to meet starting on Oct 18th and 19th. We are so excited to see how God is going to use these groups to change lives in our community.  We already have some exciting stories to tell and the groups have not even started.

If you haven't signed up you still can! Email Howard, Nicole or I and we will get you in one.  The group discussion books are free all we need is you to commit and be there for 6 weeks. Join us!

Time Change Sunday!

Hey everybody!  Don't forget that November 1st is Time Change Sunday. It is a huge day in the life of NH-Ashland.  Not only is the time falling back, but we are changing times from 11:22a to 11a.

 Make sure you put this on the calendar!

Emotional Baggage [Going Deeper]

On Sunday as we continued in our series called Baggage we answered the question, "Who am I in Christ?'

• You are forgiven in Christ
• You are complete in Christ
• You are secure in Christ

There is often a contradiction between our new identity in Christ and how we think and feel about ourselves, which affects the way we live and what we do. The truth of who we are in Christ becomes our experience as we renew our minds (Romans 12:2) and agree with God. Check any statements below that describe how you often think or feel about yourself. Then look up the corresponding verses and write out what God says is true about you. Each time you recognize that you are thinking an old belief, reject it and agree with what God says. Ask God to show you how to act on this truth, and trust the Holy Spirit to empower you.

__ I feel weak and powerless.  [Philippians 4:13; 2 Timothy 1:7]
__ I am unloved and un-loveable.  [Ephesians 2:4-5; John 15:9]
__ I feel guilty.  [Colossians 1:14,20; 2:13-14]
__ I am not good enough.  [Hebrews 10:10, 14]
__ I feel inadequate. [2 Corinthians 3:5-6]
__ I am a fearful and anxious person.  [2 Timothy 1:7]
__ I am a disappointment to God.  [Zephaniah 3:17]
__ I am not very smart.  [1 Corinthians 1:30; 2:16]
__ I am worthless & don’t deserve anything. [Isa 43:3-4; 1Pt 1:18-19]
__ I am not special or important. [Zephaniah 3:17; Ephesians 2:10]
__ I am a sinner.  [Colossians 1:22; 2 Cor. 5:21]
__ I feel responsible for my life.  [Phil. 1:6; 2:13; 2 Thess. 3:3]
__ I feel like I never measure up.  [Romans 15:7]
__ I don’t have enough ______________. [Ph 4:19; Ep 1:3]
__ I am unwanted and don’t belong. [Ephesians 1:4-5; 1 John 3:1-2]
__ I feel condemned.  [John 3:18; Romans 8:1]
__ I am alone with no one to care of me. [Heb13:5; 1Pt 5:7; Ps 91]
__ I have no plan or purpose for my life. [Jer29:11; Eph2:10; Ps38:23]

 Remember who God says you are!

Camp NH Story

Over the summer many kids from all 3 campuses went to Camp New Hope.

Our very own Dylan Counts loved it.  He writes...

I loved camp! One of my favorite parts was canoeing and riding a horse and maybe, well NOT maybe...I LOVED shoe-dini!!! I liked being on the top bunk of Elm cabin. I loved going to bed at 10:00pm and waking up at 7:00am. Even though I felt like 2 hours of sleep, it was still fun!

Thank you, New Hope, for letting me go to camp!

Dylan Counts

 His parents did too...

We were blessed to have our son, Dylan, go to camp this year. This was his first year ever going to camp and when we asked him if he was interested, he told us he would try it out for a day!! Needless to say, it was one of the best weeks of his life!

As a parent, with your kid away, it was great to see pictures throughout the week at camp! We looked forward to pictures being posted each night of the different activities of the day! We also liked the idea of being able to send emails and care packages to the kids!

Our Dylan got hurt the last night at camp. It was nothing major, but they called us once he was cleaned up to let us know what happened and let us decide how we wanted to handle it. We appreciated the call to let us know what was going on and to let us, as parents, do what we felt was necessary.

From the time he was checked in to the time he left, everything was very organized! We were very impressed with the way things ran and as a parent, those things are important to us.

We are thankful that Dylan had the opportunity to go to camp and for the life-long experience that he was able to get from it!

Thank you,
Jason and Traci Counts

Don't miss out on Camp New Hope next summer!

PS - I think you can find some footage of Shoe-dini on Facebook.

Overcoming Additiction [Going Deeper]

Last Sunday we talked about addictions.

We asked, "What has mastered you?"
We talked about taking it to God, taking it public and taking it down.

Most of us struggle with one form of addiction or another. What makes an addiction so hard to break? Our struggle with addiction is an internal battle with indwelling sin. Read Romans 7:19-8:6.

• Is Paul battle with himself or something else (v 19-20)?
• Where does this battle take place (v21)? 
• The word wretched means frustrated and exhausted from self-effort. Who set Paul free? How does God see us while we are still struggling with sin (8:1)? 
• What does Paul say is the key to walking in freedom (8:3- 6)? 

What role does our thought life play in our addictions?
Read Galatians 5:16-24.

Within every believer there is a battle between the flesh and Spirit. The flesh (some versions use sinful nature) is the tendency within us to operate in our own strength and rely on our old ways of making life work. What does Paul instruct believers to do in order to break free from the deeds of the flesh (v16)? What does this mean?

Read 2 Corinthians 12:7-10.

• How do we usually view our weaknesses?
• Why did Paul boast in his weaknesses? 
• How did God use Paul’s thorn in the flesh benefit him? 
• How can God use our addictions to do this same thing in our lives?
  

Read James 5:16 and Galatians 6:1-2.

• Why is it important to confess our sins to each other? 
• How do we carry one another's burdens? 
• What do you think Paul meant by, “the one who is spiritual?”
  

Your Next Step...

• Commit to carrying another’s burden by praying and encouraging them until they are free.
• Who do you need to solicit help from and be accountable to?
• What steps will you take this week to break free from your addiction?
  

40 Days of Love Campign

Starting on October 18th we will launch a church wide campaign that will impact every aspect of our church called 40 Days Of Love. From Hopeland into the little theater on Sundays and out into small groups during the week we will be exploring how faith and love impacts all of our relationships.

During this series I (Pastor Kevin) am asking everyone who calls New Hope Ashland home (teenagers and above) to join a small group as we go through 40 Days of Love together. We are asking that you commit to meet in a small group once a week (on Sunday or Wednesday evenings) for six-weeks. Your group will follow the six-week DVD study taught by Pastor Rick Warren. Each group member will also receive a free study guide and have the option to purchase a copy of The Relationship Principles of Jesus by Pastor Tom Holladay, the companion volume to the 40 Days of Love study.

The goal of this study is to learn what the Bible teaches about God’s love and our lives—and how those two things intersect. We were made for relationships and the more we learn to how to love authentically, the more like Jesus we become. Please check “join a 40 day group” on the connect card.

Worship Service Time Change | Vote

One thing that our leadership team is evaluating is what time should we start service? We know that may don't like the 11:22am starting time because it bleeds in to lunch time and the middle of the day. Especially for those of you who serve.

So I wanted to quickly poll you, but keep two things in mind when you vote...

1. What time is best for someone who is far from God?
2. What works best for our volunteers?

Note - having service too early will put a strain our our ministry teams because of setup time.

Baggage [Going Deeper]

Hope this posts help you go a little bit deeper on our Baggage Series.

• Read Isaiah 61:1-3
What does God promise to do for those who have been wounded by life? Who did Jesus come for? How does Jesus fulfill this prophecy?

• Read Matthew 5:3
The word “poor” means poverty stricken, helpless, so poor that he can only obtain a living by begging. Why is it important that we recognize our spiritual poverty?

• Read Psalm 109:21-22, 26, 20-31
How is God glorified through healing our brokenness?

Christ has restored for us what was lost through the fall: our relationship with God and abundant and eternal life. Read the following verses to discover what else God desires to restore to us.
• Read Psalm 23:3; 41:3; 51:12; Jeremiah 30:17; Malachi 4:6; James 5:15

• Read Colossians 2:13-14
Forgiveness simply means we release the person from the debt they owe us. On what basis did God forgive us? How many of our sins are forgiven?

• Read Colossians 3:12-13 and Ephesians 4:32
How are we to forgive others? How does forgiving help us get free from past baggage?

• Read Ephesians 4:26-27 and Hebrews 12:15
Forgiveness is for our benefit and God’s glory. What happens to us if we don’t forgive those who have wounded us?

Next Steps Following Baggage

Today we talked about Acknowledge Your Baggage and praying these 3 prayers...

• God, Help Renew My Mind With Truth
• God, Help Restore What’s Lost
• God, Help Me Release My Offender
  

Living in an imperfect world insures that we all have some baggage of one kind or another. What are some common types of baggage and what might cause them?

BAGGAGE!

Everyone has some Baggage. You picked it up some where along your life. Join us this Sunday as we start a four week series to we learn how to check the baggage once and for all by finding our true identity in Christ.

An Awesome Old School Potluck Celebration!

We had a great time last Sunday worshiping, eating, and playing together. We did not have anyone baptized, but have some who are interested.

Join the family and the mission as we impact Ashland for Jesus Christ!
We are having a blast along the way.

Old School Potluck and Baptism Celebration!

Don't forget that this Sunday at our normal worship time (11:22a) is our Old School Potluck and Baptism Celebration. This will be a time to worship, celebrate, and connect with one another over a meal. We will have a brief time of singing and teaching followed by baptisms and then lunch at the Pavilion beside Ashland High School.


(above: the pavilion during the Easter Baptisms)

Please remember to bring food. Below is a list of what you should bring according to your last name.

• A-G 12 pack of pop or juice
• H-Q main dish
• R-Z side dish

Feel free to bring some lawn chairs and outside games. We will have the sand volleyball courts so prepared for a beat down!

The Way Forward for NH-Ashland!

We need you to join a conversation this Thursday about what NH-Ashland can and will look like in the future. We will meet at 7pm at our office located at 317 Pleasant St.

Please come as we desire your input, passion, vision, and leadership.

If you have questions email me.

One Service Was AWESOME!

Last weekend we had a great worship service with 7 other partnering churches and ministries to unite God's church in one voice. Check out some of the photos from the event and more can be seen over at www.oneservice.tv

NH - Block Party

We had a block party that was off the hook on July 18th. We had almost 200 people that we blessed. The band was rocking, the food was great, and the party was off the hook.



A big thank you to the all of you who came out to serve! What a huge blessing you are to me and the whole Ashland Community! Keep serving, keep loving! We can't wait to do it again!

new hope roadtrip -journey vs destination

earlier this week we took the tech guys/gals from our 3 campuses to louisville for the gurus conference. thought we'd share a little bit of the fun.

atown women's study

some of the women from the ashland campus have been faithful meeting weekly and working through beth moore's "breaking free". recently they enjoyed a evening of fellowship over some great food.

d2s09 wrapup - thanks church for your prayers!

wanted to say thank to all that supported the youth and adults who went on the d2s09 Missions Trip- Mansfield.

Grateful too for the incredible support from our partners and mother ship Berean Baptist Church and their key youth folks, Robin Finn (organizer extraordinaire and Pastor Steve Storkel.

we all grew and were stretched as we served the others with the love of Jesus! Habitat for Humanity, Harmony House and the Dewald Center at the Salvation Army. much fun for all!

Great Gathering | Tour of Round Lake

Last Thursday we scoped out how we are going to set up Round Lake for the Great Gathering. It is going to be a great time of worship, recognition, story and momentum in the life of New Hope. You won't want to miss it.

Here is a quick tour of the facilities...

NH Paint Party!

On June 9 and 10th NH-Ashland blessed the staff by painting our new office on Pleasant Street. We are so grateful! This video is what happened at the second day of our Paint Party!

Kelli and the NH Family

No matter who you are, you have a desire to belong. One of the greatest gifts of being apart of New Hope Community Church in Ashland is belonging to a family.

Last fall, just weeks after our opening, I got to meet Kelli Bowles. I asked Nicole, our office manager, for a volunteer to film. Before filming this video I knew nothing of Kelli besides she served as a greeter at NH-Ashland. So this was my first impression of Kelli...



Wow! We are so blessed to have Kelli apart of the New Hope Family. Several weeks ago I got a message from Nicole that Kelli was submitted to the Akron's Children's Hospital.

At Church a few weeks ago Nicole informed me that Kelli wanted a NH T-Shirt. So we prayed for Kelli as well as encouraged our people to go sign the T-shirt. It was so cool to see that there was a line 5-10 people deep to sign her shirt!

This past week, Nicole and some of the NH Team, made Kelli her own blog site so she can keep us informed of her health and share her faith. Go to www.kellibelieves.com to check it out and leave her a message. I want to thank all of you and Nicole for pouring your heart out to Kelli and other's like her. God loves her beyond belief and so do we!

FPU with Pastor Bud

This Sunday will be our last week of LIFE, MONEY, HOPE featuring Dave Ramsey. You won't want to miss it.


For those who are entangled in debt or you are having trouble 'getting ahead', you should sign up for Financial Peace University led by our very own Bud Stanton. This class will start Monday, July 13th and will cost $99 and will continue for 12 weeks. Check out as a very young and dapper Bud Stanton, along with wife Sandi, share their testimony of going through FPU.



Email Nicole or check your worship program on how to sign up.

dare2serve-mansfield

hey ashland peeps. if you're a student in 6-12th grade or you are a parent of a student (where can you send your students away for 5 nites for $60-its a STEAL!), you should really consider this incredible opportunity to grow your faith by serving others.

D2S09 - Dare2Serve/Mansfield on Vimeo.

Here's the details on this summer's mission/outreach opportunity in mansfield, ohio. fun beyond belief.

if you have any questions, please contact pastor tom roepke via email here...you can also download an information packet here.

Check out the Office!

Stop by and visit us soon!

Easter Sunday...

I was just was thinking back about the Easter service we had at Ashland. The best part of all was the baptisms. Below is the long and raw footage video of the baptisms if you want to be apart of the moment.

This is why we are in Ashland! Praise be to our God!

Urban Legends...

Next week we roll out our new series where we will expose myths like these...


Urban Legends Teaser from newhopewired on Vimeo.

Well not exactly like this, but myths about spiritual life. You won't want to miss this series, so invite a friend and come learn and worship with us.

Long time...

Atown!

Sorry it's been so long. As you know I'm pumped about two things...

1. This is Holy Week and we have a great opportunity to share the Resurrection and the Good News! If you are signed up to serve, please come early because we have a lot to do. I also encourage you to invite your friends. This service will be off the map!
   
   
2. We have office space! After Easter I will be posting more details of what we will have to do to get the space ready!

Can't wait to see you this weekend as we will be celebrating the Good News! For He is risen!

Plugged In

I was away this weekend, but I heard great things. I can't wait to be back with you and worship this Sunday.

For those of you who missed, like me, check out our new video announcements with our own, Nicole Anderson!

Charles' Final Challenge to NH-Ashland

How are you going to reach Ashland for Christ?

to be continued...

NH Series Promo | To Be Continued...

Come worship with us this week as Pastor Tim will start a new series on reading the bible and where you can find yourself in it.

SERVE | Kristi's Story

SERVE | Kristi Rogers Story.

Kristi serves in the Cafe and she runs the Kindness In Action ministry [K.I.A.] Thank you for your heart Kristi, we are greatly blessed to have you serving at NH-Ashland.

If you are interested in serving in one of our ministry contact Nicole or Kevin.

Hearing the Voice of God

This week Charles shared 'Hearing the Voice of God'.

The worship set included...

I Will Go by Starfield
Forever by Chris Tomlin
Everybody Praise the Lord by Lincoln Brewster
God of this City by Chris Tomlin
To the Ends of the Earth by Hillsong

What is God calling you to?

Love is...

I came across this video and I wish I had it for my teaching last week. It says a lot about showing, then telling about God's love.

Simple Vision | A New Kind of Show and Tell

I (Kevin) am so blessed to be apart of what God is doing NH-Ashland. Although the snow and cold was back, our worship service and children's ministry was warm and kick'n!

Jimmy and the worship team lead us in a awesome worship set. The songs included...

Carry Each Other by Aaron Niequist
Salvation Is Here by Hillsong United
To the Ends of the Earth by Hillsong
From the Inside Out by Hillsong United
I Am Free by Desperation Band

I taught on A New Kind of Show and Tell...

Show God's love by serving others.
Tell the Gospel story when you get the opportunity.

[Here is the presentation]


Here are some next steps on your Journey that I encourage you to take on your walk with God...

Read Romans 12 - embrace God's love and grace, and allow it to transform you.
Where are you going to serve others? - sign up for a ministry team.
Who are you going to serve? - intentionally serve one person this month.

Next week Pastor Charles will be sharing How to hear God's Voice. We will also be taking a love offering for him.

May God bless you and keep you. May his face shine upon you and give you peace.

Divorce Recovery | Growth Group Sign-up

The third Growth Group we are offering is...

Divorce Recovery - The Covenant Divorce [Both Men & Women]

This class provides tools that help Christians going through the turmoil of divorce and come to grips with the denial, anger and guilt that modern divorce dishes out. We also take a hard look at Old Testament and New Testament divorce and attempt to develop a theology that focuses on the forgiveness of sin. The book is an epiphany for many and a valuable tool in righting one's relationships with God and others.

Lynn Medley will facilitate this class which will meet for 10 weeks on Wednesdays @ 6:30pm, beginning February 25. The workbook is $10.

Breaking Free | Growth Group Sign-up

We wanted to encourage you to sign up for our Growth Group because time is running out! We start the week of Feb 22nd. You can sign-up for one of our growth groups online [see below].

Today's featured Growth Group is...

Breaking Free - Making Liberty in Christ a Reality in Life
[Women Only]

Many Christians are held captive by things that hinder the abundant and effective Spirit-filled life God planned for them. Learn to: know & believe God, glorify Him, find satisfaction in Him, experience His peace, & enjoy His presence. We would love for you to join us as we discover the transforming power of Christian freedom and learn how to remove spiritual strongholds in our lives.

This study will begin the week of February 22 (Thursday @ 6:30pm) and run for 11 weeks. Cost of workbook is $21. Place your book order at Next Steps Bookstore this weekend to make sure it's here in time. Late book orders will be accepted, but delivery can't be guaranteed in time for the study.

For more info, contact Vicki at vicki@newhopewired.tv or call 419.994.1112.

Wild at Heart | Growth Group Sign-up

We wanted to encourage you to sign up for our Growth Groups! Time is running out (we start the week of Feb 22nd) and we want to save you a seat! Here are the 3 groups we are offering this trimester. Each day on the blog this week we will feature a group and allow you to sign-up online! How cool is that.

Wild at Heart Study – Discovering the Secret of a Man's Soul
[For Men Only]

Every man was once a boy. And every little boy has dreams, big dreams: dreams of being the hero, of beating the bad guys, of doing daring feats and rescuing the damsel in distress. Every little girl has dreams, too: of being rescued by her prince and swept up into a great adventure, knowing that she is the beauty. But what happens to those dreams when we grow up? Walk into most churches, have a look around, and ask yourself: What is a Christian man? Without listening to what is said, look at what you find there. Most Christian men are...bored.

In Wild At Heart men are invited to journey together to learn and grow through a eight-part series video series. Men will join author, John Eldredge and his band of brothers as they embark on a journey to discover how God can heal wounded hearts and put a spirit of adventure back in the life of any man.

This group will meet on Wednesdays from 7-9pm at Ashland Parenting Plus Conference Room. Materials: Book-$12; Optional Field Manual-$12.50

For more info, contact Pastor Tom at tom@newhopewired.tv or call 419.994.1112.

Simple Vision | Don't Grow It Alone Pt. 2

Unbelievable weekend! Each week more and more people are coming to NH-Ashland and people are connecting to God in worship. Some for the very first time. This week was no exception.

We were taught by Jeff Cooper that we can't grow alone...

Jesus (provides grace and forgiveness), the Holy Spirit (provides power and motivation), the Bible (provides guidance and perspective), and other Christians (provides support and accountability) are all essential to grow in Christ's likeness.

Everyone was engaged in our worship set that included...

Love the Lord by Lincoln Brewster
Holy is the Lord by Chris Tomlin
Mighty to Save by Hillsong United
Let God Arise by Chris Tomlin

We ended our gathering by playing We Need Each Other by Sanctus Real.



I want to encourage you to take a next step in your walk with God in response to this week's message. Here are a few options for a next step on your walk...

Sign up for one of our growth groups.
Commit to study the scriptures using the guide we passed out.
Find someone you can read scripture with, confess sins, and pray together.

Next week I (Kevin), will be teaching on the Simple Vision - Serve. Would love to see you as we gather together to worship our Lord.

Simple Vision | Don't Grow It Alone

What a great weekend to connect to God in worship.

The Big Idea of the message was...

Don't grow it alone.

We opened the worship gathering with called Whatever You're Doing (Something Heavenly) by Sanctus Real.

The worship set included...

We Won't Be Quiet by David Crowder Band
All I Need Is You by Hillsong United
Everlasting by Lincoln Brewster
Jesus Paid It All by Kristian Stanfil

At New Hope we want to encourage you to take a next step in your walk with God. Here are a couple of next steps you can take as a follow up to this weeks message.

Next Step on your walk...

Memorize New Hope's Simple Vision - "Connect, Grow, Serve, Go."
Consider signing up for one of our small groups [women's, men's, divorce recovery]
Find someone you can read scripture with, confess sins, and pray together.

Take the next step in your walk with God!

This weekend we had some issues with the video message. We encourage you to watch it in it's entirety here.

thinking about our xliii parties this afternoon

in preparation for the student ministry big game parties today...send a txt and let us know who you think is going to win...

sk8ing with alice

Last weekend the.evolution student ministries from all three campuses headed off to Alice Noble Ice Arena in Wooster for a fun evening on the rink. such beauty...

A-town Pride!

This weekend I was very sick. Could barely talk. Yet I knew that my team would do great.

Thanks Jimmy, Melissa, Josh, Andrew, Jordan, Bud, Nicole, Greg, Justin, Jason, Emily, and everyone else who helped pick-up the slack!

Simple Vision | Connect-ing with Crazy Call of God

On Sunday Charles' brought a great message [watch it here]

The worship set included...

Glorious One by Steve Fee
Awesome is the Lord Most High by Christ Tomlin
The Stand by Hillsong United
Salvation is Here by Hillsong United

You might be from Ashland if.....

Hey everyone I got this list from a friend......How many of you can relate to this list or these kind of memories regardless of what town you're from?

If you can relate to any of these or have anymore to add just post a comment here on the blog.

I'll just bet this makes us a little bit nostalgic. I know it did me. Can't wait to hear from everyone.

You know you grew up in Ashland if......
...you know you have to drive an hour to get anywhere interesting.
...you've ever chased hot air balloons.
...you've ever cruised Claremont as a teenager.
...you know what the cat car is.
...you've ever wondered if anyone actually hangs out at the Wagon Wheel.
...you know what it means to "Scrounge it".
...you've ever smelled Archway cookies baking.
...you felt bad for good ol' Home Hardware when Home Depot opened.
...Gotti XIII came to your school.
...you had to ride the school bus for an hour to get to or from school at least once in your childhood.
...you remember when Maurices and JCPenney exsisted.
...you remember when Food Town closed and Buehler's opened.
...you've had to go out of town to go shopping for anything (except groceries).
...you remember birthday parties at the Rollercade and Lurray Lanes.
...you know what "Sindust" is.
...you've often seen 4-wheelers driving down your street.
...your school had "Drive Your Tractor To School Day".
...you consider seeing half a dozen Amish buggies on a daily basis is a normal occurance.
...you've ever gotten stuck to your chair in the Ashland Cinema and then gotten up only to step in something even more sticky
...you go to Lyn Way for the BEST pie and cheapest lunch in town.
...you go to Friendly's after any major school event.
...your pediatrician was Dr. Murthi (breath in....breath out....)
...you remember The Dairy Dolly, Harlow's, and Super X.
...you always see an Amish buggy parked at Aldi's.
...Dr. Westbeld was your orthodontist, as well as almost every other kid you knew who had braces.
...you've had ice cream from the little red shack at Brookside Park.
...you remember when US RT 250E was pretty much bare, and everyone went to the Southern side of town for everything.
...you've ever been sled riding at the Country Club.
...you know the difference between a Township Rd and a County Rd.
...you've been to a "haunted bridge."
...you remember Pleasant St, Grant St, and Arthur St schools (for Ashland City school kids).
...you remember when Nankin, Polk, and Ruggles Troy elementary schools still stood (for Mapleton District kids).
...you remember when "the lot" was a huge hang out.
...you spray painted huge rocks when you were a senior in high school.
...spring clean-up is kinda like a big free shopping spree for most people.
...half the kids in school were gone during fair week.
...half the kids in school were gone during deer hunting season.
...you remember having to listen to the WNCO for an hour to hear if your school was closed/delayed for snow.
...you see at least 5 people you know everytime you go to Wal-Mart.
...you remember what the old Wal-Mart plaza was like before it became a ghost town.

Have a great day!

Pastor Bud

Simple Vision | Week #2 - Connect

This Sunday the snow was falling, but it could not stop our praises from being lifted up to our God. Before service we had our membership class. Let us know if you didn't make it and are interested in our membership class.

We opened the worship service with a cover of a song by the Fray called You Found Me.

The worship set included...

We Won't Be Quiet by David Crowder Band
Love the Lord by Lincoln Brewster
Glorious One by Steve Fee
From the Inside Out by Hillsong United

The Big Idea of the message was to simply...

Connect with God

At New Hope we want to encourage you to take a next step in your walk with God. Here are a couple of next steps you can take as a follow up to this weeks message.

Next Step on your walk...

Memorize New Hope's Simple Vision - "Connect, Grow, Serve, Go."
Begin a daily prayer time to connect with God.
Ask God, 'How can I worship you on a daily?

Take the next step in your walk with God!

Serving Spotlight | Common Grounds

Interested in serving? Check out the Common Grounds Cafe...

A big thank you to the team that runs the cafe each week. You have no idea how the littlest gestures of service and kindness can make an internal impact in someones life.

If you are interested in serving in the cafe send Nicole an email.

Walking Without Vision

Jeff Cooper did a great job this past weekend showing us that with out vision.

If you want to watch or listen to the full message click here.
If you want to see a video of what it's like to smack your boss click here.

Simple Vision | Week #1

We had a great worship experience this past Sunday. We were very engaged in worship, our team was serving with a smile, and the Simple Vision of New Hope was presented.

Worship set included...

We Won't Be Quiet by David Crowder Band
Let the Praises Ring by Lincoln Brewster
Awesome is the Lord Most High by Chris Tomlin
Beautiful One by Tim Hughes
Mighty to Save by Hillsong United

The Big Idea of the message was...

Connect with God and Others
Grow in Christ likeness
Serve with your gifts
Go Share Jesus

I wanted to encourage you to take a next step in your walk with God and our NH-Church Community. Here are a few next steps as a follow up to the message that I am challenging you.

Next Step on your walk...

Memorize the Great Commandment - Matthew 22:37-40
Memorize the Great Commission - Matthew 28:18-20
Memorize New Hope's Simple Vision - "Connect, Grow, Serve, Go."

Praying for you and your walk in your walk with God on 2009!

SIMPLE VISION

Is church simple…or does it seem way too complex? Jesus had a vision that was simple... and powerful. The amazing thing is that a few ordinary guys caught His vision and helped change the world. Can we do the same? What is this simple vision and what does it have to do with New Hope and… me? Just what is the Jesus way of doing things and are we doing them? In fact, it's simple.



Join us as we start simple vision this Sunday.

NH-Ashland Family Photos

At New Hope Ashland we see the church, not only a church, but a family of believers.

Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers. [Galatians 6v9-11]

Every family should have a family photo album so we are going to start collecting photos. How are we going to collect this photos? Drop box? Snail Mail? - No.

Via email. Here is what we want you to do. Email photos of yourself, our worship gatherings, etc. to photos@newhopewired.tv. The photos will immediately show up in the slide show in the right column of our blog.

Your Brother in Christ,
Kevin Rush

Check out the look!

I just did an visual overhaul on our BLOG. Let me know if you like it.

The New Office????

Ok, Are we DREAMING GOD SIZED DREAMS???

As Pastor Kevin and I shared this past Sunday, one of the initiatives we are working on for 2009 is having a presence in the community during the week.

One of the things we are looking at right now is an office where we can meet. We are pursuing several different options and I thank those of you who personally came to me with ideas. That's what it takes. Each of us investing with our TIME, TALENT, and TREASURES to grow this body and make things happen!

I'm sure there are more great ideas out there so if you have them don't keep them to yourself. Let me, Pastor Kevin or Nicole know.

You can comment here, contact us via e-mail or call us at 419-651-2724.

Please continue to pray that God will open the doors to a location so we can continue to move forward in His mission here in Ashland.

Thanks for all you do.

Blessings,
Pastor Bud