Pictured: Kathleen Morrissy
We are part of a global church, but it can be easy to forget that when only involved at the local church level. ASI was founded in 1947 to address the need for greater coordination of the mission work of lay people and is a window to what the church and its supporting ministries are accomplishing.
The best way to experience ASI is by attending an annual convention, which is held in a different U.S. city every August. Each day features breakout sessions on a variety of topics, such as business, medicine and practical evangelism. Each night, speakers like Mark Finley, Ted Wilson and John Bradshaw present the Word of God. A full children’s program is available for every age group.
Between meetings there is an exhibit hall, featuring booths from over 100 ministries and organizations. Mealtimes facilitate the meeting of fellow believers from all over the world. The conventions have been described as inspiring and leave members refreshed, but that is just the beginning. It’s up to each individual to take what they’ve learned back to their corner of the world — and put it into action.
ASI membership has been opened up greatly in the last couple of years, allowing retired business owners or professionals and young professionals to join. The full list of membership categories can be found on our website; it includes categories such as sole proprietors, executive professionals, non-profit and for-profit organizations. ASI Young Professionals is a resource for those looking to start a business or ministry, or network for their existing organization. It offers the opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals and leaders who are actively using their talents to serve Christ.
The Lake Union chapter of ASI hosts a fellowship each spring. This is a great way to get a taste of ASI without having to go too far. Until we can safely meet in person again, tune into ASI Hour Thursdays at 8 p.m. EST. You can register for free and watch replays of previous sessions at asiministries.org/asihour. This weekly series offers on-going tools, training and testimony from presenters who are experts in health, evangelism, business and ministry. Non-members are just as welcome to take part in the programs ASI offers.
As outlined in 1 Corinthians Chapter 12, we are all part of one body. Each one of us serves a different purpose, and each role is necessary. Whether you are a dentist who is looking for ways to minister in your practice, or a ministry looking for ideas to become self-supporting, ASI may be of interest to you. The mission of the Seventh-day Adventist Church is to make disciples and share the Three Angels’ Messages with all people. Join us in committing to becoming actively involved in this mission. For more information, visit www.asiministries.org and www.asilakeunion.org.
-Kathleen Morrissy, Lake Union ASI Communication director
