As we continue in the season of Pentecost, we are reminded of the powerful moment in Acts 2 when the Holy Spirit descended like a rushing wind, filling the disciples with courage, vision, and renewed purpose. Pentecost is not only a remembrance of what God once did—it is an invitation to discern where the Spirit is breathing life today.
Over the past three weeks, I have had the privilege of witnessing the Spirit’s movement in remarkable and unexpected places. In each gathering, conversation, and ministry setting, I encountered people wrestling faithfully with the challenges of our time while seeking hopeful pathways for the future.
I attended the International Coaching Federation Conference, where leaders from nonprofits, government, education, and NGOs came together to reimagine how modern technology could improve outcomes and services in their communities. The conversations were thoughtful and wide-ranging, engaging questions of ethics, civic responsibility, faith, and our collective accountability for the future. As discussions turned toward artificial intelligence and emerging technologies, I found myself reflecting deeply on the opportunities and challenges these realities present for religious organizations. Technology is no longer a distant possibility—it is part of the world we now inhabit. Whether this reality excites us or causes concern, the Church is called not to retreat from these conversations, but to engage them faithfully, prayerfully, and prophetically.
My week also included time at the Early Ministry Institute (EMI), held May 19–22. There, twenty-five new ministry pastors gathered alongside planning team members and presenters for learning, encouragement, and formation. It was a hopeful and energizing experience. These new pastors are navigating ministry in a rapidly changing culture, yet they are doing so with courage, creativity, and faithfulness. Their willingness to embrace new opportunities while remaining grounded in the Gospel is a reminder that the Spirit continues to equip leaders for every generation.
In another setting, I served as faculty for the Presbytery Leaders Formation (PLF) Resident Week, where we celebrated three newly called presbytery leaders shaped through the ministries of the Synod of the Northeast. Two of the new mid council leaders participated in the Pathways for Mid Council Leaders Program. Mario Bolivar, currently serving in Florida, was a previous recipient of the Robert Washington Scholars Program. We also give thanks for the faithful service of Sarah Craven of the Presbytery for Southern New Jersey and Casey Carbone of Hudson River, who served as Synod Commissioners. Witnessing these leaders step forward in ministry reminded me that the Holy Spirit continues to call, shape, and sustain servants for the work ahead.
Finally, I had the joy of preaching for the 360th Church Anniversary of First Presbyterian Church Newark. It was a profound celebration of history, witness, and perseverance. We learned about the congregation’s rich legacy, formed before the founding of our nation, as well as the emerging Liberation Station Museum centered around the newly discovered Underground Railroad tunnel beneath the church.
My sermon theme was “Planted Then, and Flourishing Now.” While the message was prepared for that congregation, the theological questions at its heart are relevant for all of us in this Pentecost season:
- What does the Gospel require of us now?
- Where is God moving in this season?
- How do we love our neighbors more faithfully?
- What does it mean to speak of Jesus as a revolutionary?
Pentecost reminds us that the Holy Spirit does not merely preserve the Church—it propels the Church outward. The Spirit pushes us beyond fear and familiarity into deeper faithfulness. The breath of God continues to stir among communities, leaders, congregations, and ministries willing to listen.
May we have eyes to see where the Spirit is moving, ears to hear what God is saying, and hearts willing to respond with courage and hope.
Rev. SanDawna Gaulman Ashley