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!