Published: Oct. 16, 2025

Dining In For Outreach, Asbury First's major annual fundraiser, is coming November 8 – 9! Gracious hosts throw a dinner party at their own expense while guests donate $75 (or any amount that feels right) to support Outreach ministries. We will honor volunteers Nancy Davidow, Andy Dutcher, and Carolyn Hamil during the 11 am service, with a reception to follow in the Gathering Center. Can't attend that weekend? Choose any mutually convenient date before November 16. We encourage hosts to welcome new guests—it's a great way to make friends.

Sign up Sundays, September 28 through October 26 in the Welcome Hall, or contact Diana Carter at programs@asburyfirst.org (585) 732-7224.

Published: Oct. 16, 2025

 November 14, 15, and 16 at Asbury First

Reserve your spot now for Asbury First Community Theatre's presentation of Anastasia, the Youth Musical, about a young woman named Anya with amnesia who, with the help of a con man and an ex-aristocrat, embarks on a journey from 1920s Russia to Paris to discover her identity and find where she belongs. Visit asburyfirst.org/anastasia to reserve your seats!

Published: Oct. 16, 2025

Join Wednesday Morning Book Club to explore "All We Can Save," a powerful collection featuring diverse women leaders—scientists, activists, farmers, and innovators—offering bold solutions to the climate crisis through essays, poetry, and art. The group meets Wednesdays, 10 - 11:30 am in the Red Room (1010) from October 22 - December 17, with no sign-up required—just show up ready for inspiring discussions. For more information, contact Linda Clemow at programs@asburyfirst.org.

Published: Oct. 16, 2025

Monday, November 17, 7 pm in the Red Room (1010)

Join the Banned Book Club as we gather to discuss Ray Bradbury's monumental "Fahrenheit 451," a dystopian prediction of a future where books have been outlawed. Join in-person Monday, November 17, at 7 pm in the Red Room (1010), or via zoom.

Contact Mike Mullin at mmullin@asburyfirst.org for more details.

Published: Oct. 16, 2025

Saturday, November 8*, 9 am – 1 pm, 1040, Main Entrance

It's time for our annual Fall Campus Cleanup! Bring rakes, tarps — and anything else you find makes this task interesting, enjoyable, and fulfilling. Coffee, tea, hot chocolate, and snacks will be provided. If you have any questions, please email Deb Bullock-Smith at dbullocksmith@asburyfirst.org or call the church office at (585) 271-1050. *In case of inclement weather, we'll meet on November 15.

Published: Oct. 16, 2025

Ian Urriola, former Ministry Intern (2017-2018), and Jo Schonewolf invite you to their wedding at Asbury First on Saturday, October 25 at 3 pm, co-presided by Rev. Dr. Michelle Bogue-Trost and Bishop Héctor A. Burgos Núñez.

The service will be livestreamed, followed by a cookie and punch reception in the Gathering Center.

For more details, visit ianandjogetmarried.com

Published: Oct. 16, 2025

Join Covenant United Methodist Church (1124 Culver Road at Parsells Ave.) on Sunday, October 19 at 3 pm for a concert celebrating their Austin pipe organ's 100th Anniversary. Eastman student organists from four continents will perform in this free public recital; a free-will offering supports the Eastman Student Travel Fund.

Visit covenantroc.org for details.

Published: Oct. 2, 2025

On Sunday, October 26, following worship, we will gather for our annual Church Conference, which in the United Methodist Church is the once-a-year meeting where the whole congregation is invited to participate in the business of the church. Think of it as both a Town Hall and a family meeting: a time to celebrate what God has done among us, to affirm leaders for the coming year, and to take care of essential matters that shape our shared life. Please mark your calendar and plan to join us for this special gathering!

Published: Oct. 2, 2025

As our Stewardship Campaign and the 2026 Budget season approaches, we would like to bring two recent Monday Reader articles to your attention. The first, Living the Dream: Exciting News From Your SPRC shares information about newly defined goals and some important staffing reconfiguration. That article can be read by clicking here.

The second, which went out Monday, September 29, and can be read by clicking here, is a budget update from the Finance Committee detailing the goals for the 2026 budget, what Asbury First needs and how your giving will help us all to do more good.

Published: Oct. 2, 2025

Join Asbury First through our New Members classes! These two-session courses cover church history, United Methodism, and offer a chance to connect with fellow new members. Next class: Tuesday, October 7 & 14 (6:30 – 8 pm, Red Room 1010), joining Sunday, October 19.

Attendance at both sessions required. Contact Holly Temming: htemming@asburyfirst.org or (585) 271-1050.

Published: Oct. 2, 2025

Tuesdays at 3 pm in the Gathering Center, join us for our Autumn Gentle Yoga Series with Kelly Noyes.

Experience a slower yoga flow as we gently draw our attention inward with mindful movement and breath. Classes are an hour long and open to participants at any level. $10 donation is payable at the door. Wear comfortable loose-fitting clothes and bring water with you. The Winter Yoga Series will begin on Tuesday, November 18. 

Published: Oct. 2, 2025

Bible Sunday is a cherished Asbury First tradition, and the children will receive their personalized Bibles during the 11 am service on Sunday, October 26.

All families with 3rd graders and older children who haven't yet received a Bible, please email Paula Dugan at pdugan@asburyfirst.org by October 9, or fill out the form on our website by clicking here.

Published: Oct. 2, 2025

Would you like to see a greater variety of housing options available in the Rochester area? Do you want to help create a more accessible community for everyone? The Social Concerns Committee and RASE Commission, together with many others, are sponsoring a workshop that will empower you to advocate for change. Join members of various faith communities for a free workshop on public advocacy for more housing options!

Thursday, October 23, 5:30 – 7:30 pm in the Gathering Center

Registration LINK

Published: Oct. 2, 2025

Looking for a deeper way to connect? Volunteering at Asbury First is more than helping out—it’s about building friendships, discovering joy, and growing in faith.

Our Volunteer Engagement Committee is here to match your gifts and schedule with opportunities across the church. Whether you have an hour once in a while or time each week, there’s a place for you: greeting on Sunday mornings, singing in the choir, teaching, cooking, office help, or serving with Outreach ministries.

The best part? Volunteering is flexible and rewarding. You’ll bless the church with your presence—and find yourself blessed in return.

Ready to find your place? Reach out to the Volunteer Engagement Committee and discover the joy of serving together.

Published: Sept. 25, 2025

Join Asbury First families for our brand new First Friday Family Fun Nights starting Friday, October 3 from 5 to 7 pm at Wickham Farms in Penfield! Each month we'll gather at different exciting locations around Rochester for relaxed evening adventures that bring our church family together for fun and fellowship. Mark your calendars for the first Friday of every month for a new location and the same great community connection.

For more information about cost and to RSVP, contact Paula Dugan at pdugan@asburyfirst.org or call (585) 271-1050 x111