Children & Youth / Adults

There are MANY opportunities to get involved in the Ministries of Ashford United Methodist Church. You could say there is something for everyone! We annually hold a Ministry Fair, at which time members are encouraged to present and discuss ministry opportunities, however members are welcome and encouraged to sign up throughout the year for one or more of the many choices - surely there's at least one that will suit your time and talents!

For more information, please contact the church office or download My Plan to Serve Christ at Ashford.

Children & Youth

Children

Welcome! Ashford United Methodist believes our children are the future of our church, so it’s never too soon to begin teaching children about the love of Christ.
The Children’s Ministry at Ashford includes Sunday school, Children’s Church and Vacation Bible School. The volunteer teachers help to educate children about God and the stories of Jesus in settings that young children can learn in. We teach children from the ages of four to twelve and have two or more adults present in all teaching situations. Safe Sanctuary (a class that presents guidelines for working with our children) training is required and all teaching materials are provided. Sunday school and Children’s Church are two separate one hour sessions every Sunday, before and during the 11:00 a.m. service, where we first teach simple Bible stories, and then have the children participate in prayers, songs, and crafts. Vacation Bible School is a one-week event in the summer from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. where the children move between games, crafts, snacks, songs, and bible stories in a fun and active atmosphere.
We offer nursery/childcare during worship for children through age four; Sunday school and Children’s Church (at 11:00 a.m.) for children age 4 through 5th grade; and special events and opportunities to serve God and learn about the Bible while having a great time.
Would you like to become a teacher or volunteer and work with our children?
Contact the church office for more information.

Train up a child in the way he should go and when he is old he will not depart from it. (Proverbs 22:6)

Youth Ministries

Pre-teens & teens need a place of their own where they can fellowship and grow in their faith. That is why Ashford has a ministry just for them. Our Youth Group, open to youth from 6th to 12th grade, helps students go deeper in their faith and understanding of what it means to become disciples of Jesus Christ with events specifically selected to meet their needs and interests.


The youth program has its own Sunday school class that meets at 10:00 a.m. on Sunday. They also meet regularly on Sunday evening from 5:00-7:00 p.m. for food, fun, and fellowship in the Education building.
At Ashford, you’ll will find a Christian community of young people. It’s an environment where they can feel accepted for who they are, and where it’s safe to ask about life’s questions without being judged. Nurturing the faith of youth is an important part of the church. Decisions and choices they make now can impact the rest of their lives. Therefore, we believe a strong foundation in Christian beliefs is crucial. We also believe the relationships nurtured in this group gives everyone a way to practice these beliefs. A mixture of fun, service, scripture, prayer, and of course food makes for a successful combination!

Highlights have included Messy Game Night in the Spring, before finals; Summer camp at Lakeview; guest speakers on topics that impact their lives; Serve & Surf beach trip in August; and various service projects throughout the year like the KSF car wash and Socks for the Homeless just to name a few. The high school students have also participated in U.M. Army and every two years, we hold a class that prepares the students for Confirmation.

Trip Permission Form (Complete for Each Child for Every Trip) Consent to Treat Form (Complete Annually for Each Child)

For more information, contact Debra Chidakwa-Akue.

Let no one look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in your speech, conduct, love, faithfulness, and purity.
(1 Timothy 4:12)

Adults

Through our adult ministries, we hope to see all people come to a deeper love of God and others. As people are shaped into the likeness of Christ for the sake of others, we will see lives transformed, and our city, nation, and the world healed.

The following Adult Connection classes meet each Sunday morning at 10:00 a.m… 

Aldersgate (Room 116, Library)
One of the first classes of Ashford United Methodist Church, started in 1970. The group uses the Cokesbury Adult Bible Studies focusing on books of the Bible. Three teachers rotate each month bringing their own unique style to each class. Social events have included a game night, a dinner theater, and a quilting project. (All ages) 

Crossroads (Room 204)
Studies vary from books of the Bible to topical themes such as what Jesus says about worry, temptation, forgiveness, and healing. Open discussion is welcomed and encouraged. The group is currently studying “Revival” by Adam Hamilton, a six week study of Wesley’s land, life, ministry, and teachings. Wesley’s story is our story, defining our faith and challenging us to rediscover our spiritual passion. Come be a part of this exciting study on the origins of Methodism. (All ages) 

Good News (Room 202) 

Passages (Room 203)
Study focus for several years has been on books of the Bible, with occasional breaks for popular books or video series. Currently the class is studying the Gospel of John. (30s to 60s).


The following Adult Bible Study classes meet several times throughout the year…

Wednesday Morning Bible Study – Meets from 9:30-11:30 a.m. For information, please contact Peggy Erwin

Contact the church office for more information.