Dear Brother and Sister in Christ,

Grace and peace to you in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. As we stand on the threshold of a new year, I am filled with anticipation and excitement for what the Lord has in store for our church community in 2024. It is my heartfelt desire to share a vision that I believe aligns with the calling and mission entrusted to us by our Savior.

A Year of Renewal and Transformation: In the coming year, let us commit ourselves to a season of renewal and transformation. Just as the seasons change, so too can our spiritual lives and the life of our church. This is an opportunity to rekindle the fire of our faith, individually and corporately, through prayer, worship, and a deeper connection with the Word of God.

Deepening Spiritual Formation: I envision a church where every member is actively engaged in deepening their relationship with Christ. This involves intentional discipleship, small group gatherings, and regular spiritual practices. As we grow closer to God, we naturally grow closer to one another, fostering a community of believers who support and encourage each other on this journey of faith.

Outreach and Community Impact: Our calling extends beyond the walls of our church. In 2024, let us intensify our efforts to serve and impact our local community. This includes not only meeting physical needs but also being a source of hope and compassion. By reaching out with the love of Christ, we can make a meaningful difference in the lives of those around us.

Embracing Diversity and Inclusivity: The body of Christ is beautifully diverse, and I believe God calls us to embrace this diversity with open hearts and minds. In the coming year, let us actively seek ways to celebrate and honor the unique gifts and perspectives that each member brings to our church family. In doing so, we reflect the unity in diversity that is the hallmark of God's kingdom.

A House of Prayer: May our church be known as a house of prayer, a place where the fervent prayers of the righteous avail much. In 2024, let us prioritize prayer in all aspects of our ministry, seeking God's guidance, wisdom, and empowerment. Through prayer, we can tap into the supernatural resources God provides for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.

Stewardship and Generosity: As faithful stewards of God's blessings, let us commit to a lifestyle of generosity in 2024. This encompasses not only financial giving but also the sharing of our time, talents, and resources for the advancement of God's kingdom. In this way, we can be a tangible expression of God's love to a world in need.

Dear brothers and sisters, as we embark on this journey into 2024, let us hold fast to the promises of God, knowing that He who began a good work in us will carry it on to completion. May our church be a beacon of light, hope, and love in the year ahead, drawing people closer to the heart of Jesus.

In His service and for His glory,

Bill Doane

Hello@aspengrovechurch.com

www.aspengrovechurch.com

https://aspengrovechurch.blogspot.com

 

Dear Church Family,

As we approach the season of Thanksgiving, our hearts are filled with thankfulness for the many blessings we have received as a church. It is a time when we come together to reflect on the goodness of God and express our thankfulness for His abundant grace.

This year has been filled with challenges and triumphs, but through it all, we have witnessed the unwavering faith and resilience of our church family. Each member has played a unique and valuable role in contributing to the growth of God’s Kingdom.

As we gather to celebrate Thanksgiving, let us take a moment to reflect on the blessings that surround us—the warmth of fellowship, the support of our spiritual family, and the countless ways in which God has shown His faithfulness. It is a time to acknowledge and appreciate the small and large victories, the answered prayers, and the moments of joy that have colored our journey together.

In the spirit of Thanksgiving, let us also extend our gratitude beyond our church walls. May we be mindful of those in our community who may be facing challenges and extend a helping hand, embodying the love and compassion of Christ.

We invite you to join us for a special Thanksgiving service on Nov 26^th at 10:00 AM, where we will come together as a church family to express our gratitude through worship, prayer, and fellowship. Let this be a time of reflection, praise, and a recommitment to living lives that honor God and bless those around us.

As we gather around our tables with family and friends, let us remember. (Psalm 107:1) Oh, give thanks to the Lord, for He is good! For His ^[a]mercy endures forever.

May our hearts be filled with gratitude, and may our lives be a testament to the goodness of our Heavenly Father.

Wishing you and your loved ones a joyous and blessed Thanksgiving!

In Christ's love,

Bill Doane

www.Aspengrovechurch.com  ( Sermons are now online)

Dear Brother and Sister in Christ,

I write to you today to discuss the upcoming harvest season, both in the natural and the spiritual sense.

As we approach the autumn season, we are reminded of the bountiful harvest that God graciously provides for us year after year. The fields are ripe, and the fruits of our labor are ready to be gathered. This season serves as a beautiful metaphor for the work of the Church and the spiritual harvest that we are called to tend and nurture.

The Bible is filled with numerous references to the concept of the harvest, and it is a symbol of God's provision and the gathering of souls into His Kingdom.

Jesus tells us, In Matthew 9:37-38, Then He said to His disciples, “The harvest truly is plentiful, but the laborers are few. Therefore pray the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into His harvest.”

This verse calls us to action, urging us to be diligent workers in God's fields, bringing the message of salvation to those who have not yet heard.

Prayer: Let us earnestly pray for God to send laborers into His harvest. Pray for the hearts of the unreached to be open and receptive to the Gospel. Pray for our church members to be bold and passionate in sharing their faith.

Outreach: Consider organizing events, programs, and missions to reach out to those who do not know Christ. Outreach can take many forms, from community service to evangelistic meetings.

Discipleship: The harvest is not just about gathering souls but also about nurturing and discipling new believers. Let us be committed to helping new members grow in their faith and become faithful disciples of Jesus.

Generosity: Just as God has generously provided the harvest, let us also be generous in our giving and support of the Church's mission and outreach efforts.

Unity: Unity among believers is vital in the work of the harvest. Let us set aside our differences and work together as one body in Christ to reach the lost and bring them into the fold.

As we enter this season of abundance and reflection, let us be ever mindful of our mission as the Church. May we be faithful laborers in God's harvest, sharing the love and hope of Christ with those who need it most. Let us be a light in the world, a beacon of God's grace, and a source of inspiration for those seeking salvation.

I look forward to the exciting times ahead as we embark on this journey of harvest together. With God's guidance and our unity as a congregation, I have no doubt that we will see a plentiful harvest, both in our hearts and in the lives of those we touch.

May God bless you all abundantly as we embark on this important mission.

In His service,

Bill Doane

Email: Hello@aspengrovechurch.com

www.aspengrovechurch.com

 Dear Church Family,

I am writing to express my deep appreciation for the invaluable role our church plays in our lives and our community. I believe that now, more than ever, we should come together to support our church in its mission to spread love, compassion, and the teachings of Christ.

Our church is a source of spiritual nourishment, guidance, and a place of unity for so many. It serves as a refuge where we find solace, fellowship, and a sense of purpose. The church's dedicated efforts in fostering a sense of community and addressing the spiritual needs of its members are truly commendable.

I would like to emphasize the importance of supporting our church financially. While I understand that times can be financially challenging for some, contributing to our church allows us to maintain our beautiful place of worship and carry out its important ministries. Our financial contributions are a tangible way to show our commitment and dedication to our faith community.

In addition to financial support, I encourage all of us to consider volunteering our time and talents to assist with church activities and events. Whether it's helping with Sunday school, participating in outreach programs, or serving on various committees, our active involvement can make a significant difference in our church's ability to carry out its mission.

I believe that when we stand together and support our church, we strengthen our faith, deepen our connection with one another, and play a vital role in spreading God's love to the wider community. Let us be inspired by the scripture in 2 Corinthians 9:7 (NKJV), which says, "7 So let each one give as he purposes in his heart, not grudgingly or of [a]necessity; for God loves a cheerful giver."

If you have any questions about how you can contribute or get involved in the church's activities, please feel free to reach out to our church leadership, and they will be more than happy to provide guidance.

Thank you for taking the time to read this letter and for your continued support of our church. Let us continue to pray for our church community and for all those in need, both within and outside our congregation.

May God's blessings be upon you and our church as we work together to fulfill His purpose.

In Christ's love and service,

Bill Doane

Hello@aspengrovechurch.com

www.aspengrovechurch.com

https://aspengrovechurch.blogspot.com

 Dear Church

I felt compelled to write to you today to share some reflections and insights about the New Testament and the profound impact it has on our faith and lives.

The New Testament stands as the foundation of our Christian beliefs, capturing the life and teachings of Jesus Christ, the cornerstone of our faith. It contains not only the Gospels, which narrate His birth, ministry, crucifixion, and resurrection, but also the Acts of the Apostles, the Epistles, and the Book of Revelation. Each of these books offers unique lessons and wisdom that guide us in our walk with Christ.

First and foremost, the Gospels - Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John - provide us with a vivid and personal portrait of Jesus Christ. They reveal His boundless love, compassion, and sacrifice. Jesus' parables and sermons inspire us to lead lives of humility, forgiveness, and love. His healing of the sick, comforting of the broken-hearted, and call to repentance serve as a constant reminder of the Christian path we must walk.

The Acts of the Apostles chronicle the early days of the Church, demonstrating how the disciples carried the Gospel to the ends of the Earth. We are reminded of the importance of faith, courage, and the Holy Spirit in spreading God's message.

The Epistles, written by apostles like Paul, Peter, and John, address a range of theological and practical issues, providing guidance for how we should live as Christians. These letters touch on themes like love, unity, forgiveness, and the fruits of the Spirit. They encourage us to be ambassadors of Christ, living out our faith daily.

The Book of Revelation, though often mysterious and symbolic, assures us of God's ultimate victory over evil and the promise of a new heaven and earth. It calls us to remain steadfast in our faith, even in times of tribulation and uncertainty.

It is essential for us as a church community to continually engage with the New Testament. We must read it, study it, meditate on its verses, and apply its teachings in our daily lives. In doing so, we draw nearer to God, grow in faith, and deepen our relationship with Jesus Christ.

I encourage all of us to join in Bible studies, engage in conversations about the New Testament, and strive to live by the principles it imparts. By embracing the New Testament, we strengthen our fellowship and are better equipped to be a light to the world, reflecting God's love and grace.

Let us commit to walking the path laid out in the New Testament, following in the footsteps of Christ and the early disciples. May it guide us in times of joy and sorrow, and may we share its message with those who have yet to discover the transformative power of the Gospel.

In Christ's love and service,

Bill Doane

Hello@aspengrovechurch.com

www.aspengrovechurch.com

https://aspengrovechurch.blogspot.com

 Dear Church Family

It is with great joy and enthusiasm that I write to you today about the importance of reading the Old Testament in our Christian journey.

The Old Testament, while sometimes overlooked in favor of the New Testament, is an invaluable part of our faith tradition. It provides us with a profound understanding of God's nature, His covenant with humanity, and the rich history of our faith. Why we should make an effort to read and study the Old Testament:

1. Foundation of Our Faith: The Old Testament lays the foundation for our Christian beliefs. It introduces us to the character of God, His creative power, and His interactions with humanity throughout history. Understanding the Old Testament is essential to grasp the context in which Jesus Christ came into the world.

2. Prophetic Messages: The Old Testament contains numerous prophecies about the Messiah, many of which were fulfilled by Jesus. Reading these prophecies and their fulfillment in the New Testament strengthens our faith and deepens our appreciation for the divine plan of salvation.

3. Moral and Ethical Guidance: The Old Testament is filled with stories, commandments, and wisdom literature that offer valuable moral and ethical guidance. It teaches us about justice, compassion, humility, and the consequences of human choices.

4. Lessons from the Lives of Heroes and Prophets: The Old Testament introduces us to remarkable individuals such as Abraham, Moses, David, Elijah, and Isaiah, whose lives serve as examples of faith, perseverance, and obedience in the face of adversity.

5. The Unchanging Nature of God: Although the Old Testament events occurred millennia ago, the unchanging nature of God is evident throughout its pages. His love, mercy, and faithfulness as portrayed in the Old Testament continue to be relevant and comforting to us today.

6. A Complete Story: The Bible, both Old and New Testaments, tells a complete story of God's plan for humanity. Ignoring the Old Testament is like trying to understand a novel by reading only its second half.

To encourage a deeper appreciation of the Old Testament, our church will be organizing regular study groups and discussions focused on various books and themes from the Old Testament. I invite each of you to participate in these sessions and explore the richness of our faith tradition.

Let us remember the words of the Apostle Paul in 2 Timothy 3:16-17: "All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work." By delving into the Old Testament, we equip ourselves for a more profound understanding of God's Word and His will for our lives.

May God bless each of you as you embark on this journey of rediscovering the Old Testament. I look forward to growing together in faith and knowledge.

In Christ's love and service,

Bill Doane

Hello@aspengrovechurch.com

www.aspengrovechurch.com

https://aspengrovechurch.blogspot.com

 Dear Church Family

I am writing to you today with a message that I believe is both timely and profound – the idea that Jesus calls each and every one of us by name.

In a world filled with chaos, uncertainty, and noise, it can be easy to lose sight of the fact that our faith is deeply personal and individual. Yet, it is precisely in our personal relationship with Christ that we find our strength and purpose.

Throughout the Bible, we are reminded of this intimate connection between Jesus and his followers. One powerful example can be found in the Gospel of John, were Jesus, after the resurrection, calls Mary Magdalene by name. In that single moment, her world was transformed. She recognized her Lord, and her life was forever changed.

Just as Jesus knew Mary Magdalene by name, he knows each of us intimately. He knows our joys and sorrows, our triumphs and struggles, and he calls us by name to walk with him. This is a profound truth that should fill us with hope and gratitude.

It is easy to become overwhelmed by the demands of our daily lives and the distractions of the world. However, I encourage you to take a moment to reflect on the significance of Jesus calling you by name. It is a reminder of his personal love and care for you, and it should inspire you to deepen your relationship with him.

Let us remember that we are not just members of a church, but individuals with unique stories and journeys of faith. Jesus knows us intimately, and he is always there to guide us, comfort us, and lead us on the path of righteousness.

As we gather together in worship and fellowship, let us take this message to heart. Let us remember that we are called by name, chosen by God, and loved beyond measure. May this knowledge strengthen our faith, deepen our devotion, and inspire us to live lives that reflect the love and grace of our Savior.

I would like to encourage you to spend some time in prayer and reflection on this profound truth. Let Jesus' call by name be a source of comfort and inspiration in your daily walk of faith.

May the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all.

With love and blessings,

Bill Doane

Hello@aspengrovechurch.com

www.aspengrovechurch.com

https://aspengrovechurch.blogspot.com/