Subject: Columbia Union Goes to ASI

August 15, 2019 ◊ Issue 10
Columbia Union Goes to ASI
Columbia Union was well represented at the ASI International Convention July 31 to Aug. 3 in Louisville, Ky. Members attended seminars and keynote addresses all centered on the theme "Business Unusual."

Speakers ranged from Andy Weaver, "Amish/Adventist" to Felecia Datus on "Digital Evangelism," Ralph Trecartin on "Education, Ministry & Business: Future Collaborations and Joint Ventures," and David Asscherick on "An Unusual God."

Members were also able to visit Ark Encounters, featuring a full-size replica of Noah's ark with three decks of exhibits about the biblical story of Noah.

If you would like to see some of the seminars offered, visit ASI's YouTube Channel.
— Michele Joseph, managing editor, ASI Columbia Union newsletter; photos provided by ASI Columbia Union board members
A MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT
 
am really excited! What a privilege it was to experience the International ASI Convention in Louisville, Ky., from July 31 to Aug. 3. With its sights and sounds still fresh in my memory, all I can think about are the amazing things God is doing with His people around the world, and how it can and will happen here in the Columbia Union. The convention theme was ‘Business Unusual,’ and from attending the seminars, listening to the testimonies, and engaging in chance conversations with fellow attendees, God is truly moving the business and ministry activities of His people to an unusual level. 

We heard of new ventures in ministry in far-reaching places and locales close to home. We chatted with young people who are starting YouTube and cell phone ministries. A host of first-time attendees and new ASI members shared stories of recently birthed businesses and ministries. Seasoned evangelists and preacher/teachers honed our spiritual knowledge and witnessing skills with profound presentations. And the news of the launching of an innovation center at Andrews University has the potential to propel the presence of Christians in the entrepreneurial space in an unprecedented fashion. As Philip Baptiste, North American Division secretary/treasurer for ASI, challenged us in his closing message, engaging in the ASI mission of spreading Christ in the marketplace must be considered ‘Mission Priority: It’s Harvest Time!’

And now, as the inspiration of the convention translates into purpose, we in ASI Columbia Union encourage you to purposefully tune in to the Holy Spirit as inspiration and direction is increasingly being poured out upon God’s people. Pursue those dreams, respond to those callings, connect with ministries that appeal to you. Our prayer is that together we in this chapter will also experience the business of serving the Lord in unusual measure, for after all … it is harvest time!

One update – the date for the ASI-CU Spring Convention has been moved to April 24-25, 2020 – so please save this date on your calendars. The theme will be “Lord, Give Us This Mountain.”  Additional details will be provided in the coming weeks. Also, be on the lookout for other event announcements. It’s going to be an exciting year!

As I close, welcome to all our new members and newsletter recipients.  I look forward to seeing or speaking with you all. Blessings.

Your fellow servant,
Mark A. Brown, ASI Columbia Union President
GOD'S PROMISE
“Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.”  — Philippians 4:6-7 New American Standard Bible
PRAYER REQUESTS 
This month we are praying for:
ASI Columbia Union
executive team as we plan and prepare for April 2020 convention.

Dustin Pestlin
as his ministry, Hope Through Prophecy, answers the hard questions young people have.

Christmas Behind Bars
needs 700 Bibles, either new or gently used. Christmasbehindbars.com

Reggie Alexander
is doing very well after a heart transplant, yet he is still experiencing weakness and trouble breathing. Doctors are doing tests on his lungs. 

To share a prayer request, email us at connect@columbiaunionasi.com

JOIN THE PRAYER LINE
Call 570-354-0272 on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 8:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. to pray with Sharon Pruitt, CUASI vice president for spiritual development, and other CUASI members.
UPCOMING EVENTS
April 24-25, 2020 — ASI Columbia Union Spring Convention. Details to come.  
July 29-Aug. 1, 2020 — ASI International Convention, Orlando, FL. For details, visit ASI's website.
Our mission is to obey the Holy Spirit’s call to encourage, empower and equip Adventist members of Columbia Union to work together to finish God’s work in these times in harmony with the Seventh-day Adventist Church.
ASI Columbia Union Board: Mark A. Brown, president; Zubin David, vice president for membership; Sharon Pruitt, vice president for spiritual development; and Daniel Reed, vice president for projects, missions and evangelism
ASI Columbia Union Staff: Nicole Labiche, administrative assistant
Sponsor: Celeste Ryan Blyden, vice president, Columbia Union Conference
Newsletter Managing Editor: Michele Joseph



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Columbia Union ASI, 5427 Twin Knolls Road, Columbia, Maryland, 21045, United States
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