What are some of your favorite memories at Asbury?
Some of my fondest memories of Asbury are related to church choir, camp, Vacation Bible School, and youth group as a teen. I believe I was probably only in church choir when I was very young. (There is actually a very logical reason for that.) We had a choir director at that time, Miss [Mae] Ruhe. She was so much fun. It was obvious to most people that I was not going into anything professional related to music. But, you wouldn’t have known that from Miss Ruhe. She would give you a gold star if you would get up in front of our rehearsal and sing a SOLO! Yes, so obviously I was VERY young to get up and sing by myself. Now I would only do that with some sort of mask or disguise. Sometimes, if she knew you were frightened by getting up in front, she would allow you to bring a friend up with you. At that age and time, a star on a chart was a big thing. I just remember that Miss Rue really didn’t care how well you sang as long as you sang for the Lord. Next, I have to mention the wonderful time I had in Vacation Bible School. I can still remember some of the fun songs we sang with Pastor [Lewis] Wally. He had a wonderful sense of humor. Almost as good as Pastor Eric’s, but not quite. We did crafts, and learned Bible stories, and also played games outside. I have fond memories of camping. I enjoyed a couple of summers at Camp Innabah. I remember loving the outdoors. We would canoe, swim, have great food (and even enjoy cleaning up after), sing songs, and learn more about God. It was a great time to meet new friends. Finally, I would have to say that youth group as a teen is definitely one of my favorite memories. We had wonderful leaders who made the Bible something we could relate to and connect with our own lives. I was baptized and raised in Asbury, so my youth group memories were from the church downtown where the library stands now. I have many great memories of those educational and fun times. Progressive suppers and retreats were some of my favorite activities in Youth Group. In a progressive supper you went from house to house where your parents had done all the work, and enjoy food and then hop in a car with another parent driving to proceed to the next house. Retreats were treasured times. I particularly remember being at Pocono Plateau, sledding, and sitting by the fabulous fireplace while learning more about the Bible and God. We had some very special leaders of our youth group, a couple that is at Asbury yet today. I am not allowed to mention their names due to privacy issues, but I could probably whisper them to you if you asked.
What program(s) or area(s) of Asbury are you most connected to at Asbury? Tell us about your connection to them and the difference they’ve made in your life.
Currently, I am involved in Priscilla Circle, God’s Rainbow, and the Keep in Touch Committee. Priscilla Circle has been such a support to me in my life. It is a comforting feeling to share time and learning with women who believe as you do and are so kind and there for you when you need someone to turn to when things get tough. All families and individuals go through some challenging times. When [my husband] Gary was critically ill and our children very young, my Circle was a great support to us, as was our church. They supported us with prayer, caring kindness, food, and hope. I have also been involved in teaching God’s Rainbow. These challenged adults have brought such goodness and love into our lives. We can only hope we can give as much back to them. The Keep in Touch Committee has helped me grow in my faith. Visiting people in the hospital, and calling them when they are ill during COVID, was tough for me as it forced me to strike up a conversation often with someone I was not familiar with at the time. Additionally, I feared I would struggle for a closing prayer with them, but somehow the words seem to come, and the people almost always express gratitude for the connection.
What are some pivotal moments you’ve been at Asbury during (ex. the 1972 fire, pastoral changes, etc.); and how did they impact you?
I remember the fire and seeing the church after the destruction. But, we quickly seemed to be worshipping in another location (I believe 9th and Linden), so it seemed that a fire couldn’t stop our faith and community. My sister was married in the church at 9th and Linden, so that is another Asbury memory for me.
How have you seen Asbury change over the time that you’ve been involved?
Asbury has always changed after a new pastor joined us, because each minister brings their own style and special gifts. Services and music have changed and careful thought has been given to what changes should be made.
What makes Asbury a place where you (personally) belong?
Priscilla Circle, God’s Rainbow, Keep in Touch, and friends I have made along the way have made Asbury a comfortable place for me and one where I feel I belong. I think that church in general is a difficult place when you are single. It can be lonely to see so many families and children. It is important to join Circles, book studies, small groups, and any other area of interest in the church. I don’t think I was so great at this as a single person, but looking back, I think it would have helped me during those years.
What are your hopes for the next 100 years of Asbury?
I hope that Asbury can grow and be open to change. Change is a hard thing. However, I believe Asbury has always been a loving community and welcoming to all. My hope is that our church will grow into a church where people of all walks of life want to be on a Sunday morning and throughout the week. I hope that Missions will continue to grow as I feel it is such a strong point at Asbury.
Any other thoughts you’d like to share?
I am glad my parents taught me about the Lord and brought me to Asbury where I could continue to learn, grow, and meet friends.
– Brenda Rodgers-Baxter