Weekly Update// Alina Saucedo, Pastoral Intern

Dear Asbury Family, 

How can one become a good pastor? I would say by practicing and following in the steps of others. I know I must go to seminary, a total of 81 credits, read lots of books and academic journals, write uncountable papers and sometimes miss nights of sleep. But you may agree that nothing can prepare us better for ministry than practicing in the church and learning from the Elder Shepherds (By the way, we have here at Asbury UMC three of the best!). 

So then, here I am, for the grace of God, blessed as a Pastoral Intern in Asbury to practice, learn and grow in knowledge and faith. As an intern, I am gaining an inside look into church ministry, and I have the opportunity to be disciplined by the pastoral team to lead me and foster my spiritual growth and leadership talents. To be sincere, I do not see myself in another place than working alongside God’s people. 

I just completed my first month, and I now better understand how a church functions. For example, there are lots of complex and coordinated duties and work shared between the pastors and staff, but mainly by the membership (including you) who – with their presence, gifts, talents, time, welcoming, words, prayers, encouragement, and support – make the church what it is, an alive church and a witness of God's presence in this world.  

I did not know about all the details it took to get there. Still, I do realize now that good leadership, vision, commitment, challenging/inspiring sermons, lots of prayers for each other, and hands-on work, all guided by the Holy Spirit can make us a stronger community of faith and in faith. Thus, a church can inspire and invite others to be part of it. I feel thankful for being part of it. 

I am just beginning, and I may join you in this Christian journey, praying with you and for you in the morning prayers, helping in Sunday worship, and having conversations in small groups or in devotionals. There are many opportunities at church during the week to meet and learn about God, so check the church bulletins and join us. Remember, we have two worship services on Sunday at 9:30 am (Celebration) and 11:00 am (Traditional), and the sermon series “All Of Who We Are “continues. Come and joins us. Let us keep growing in faith and witness together. 

May this be a blessed week for you and your family, 

Alina Saucedo

Pastoral Intern