Notes
From Dr. Bruce Wood
Senior Pastor 1992-1996
(Written for 25th Anniversary 1995)
Serving as the pastor of Ashford United Methodist Church is one of
the supreme privileges of my life. I stand in the tradition of great
men and women of God who have led this congregation to faithful
discipleship and witness in West Houston and the world. Those who have
labored before me have not labored in vain and have left a great
legacy of faith and love. I am deeply indebted to the former pastors,
Don Willis, Jim Killen, Jim Foster, and Chappell Temple and all the
dedicated people of God who have given themselves sacrificially to
establish this outstanding church.
Twenty-five years ago, an ember was fanned into a flame as the
Methodist people passionately and enthusiastically established a new
work for Christ. The flame has been kept alive through the dedication
of hundreds of people working together. No doubt, hundreds of lives
have been touched through the ministry of Ashford.
The three years we have served Ashford have been rewarding and
challenging. How will I ever forget the memorable mission trips to
Jamaica . .. unity of mission, deep communion with God and one
another, working side by side with brothers and sisters from Ashford
and Jamaica, little children's smiles, burglaries, packed vans, a man
left beside the road apparently dying, wrecked autos, broken feet,
pool side parties, preaching in the open air with the roaring motor of
a dump truck, hillside Bible studies, visitation in homes of humble
villagers, prayer for God's grace to prevail and so much more.
Ashford's commitment to mission beyond the community is a testimony to
God's call on our church.
I believe that Ashford has a great future if the fire and passion
for spreading scriptural holiness is kept alive among the people. May
God's grace keep the flame burning brightly in us.
In His Steps, Bruce
