ASHLEY GOAD

Rev. Dr. Ashley Goad’s spiritual heritage is a long one, going back to 1773 when her family planted Springfield Friends Meeting, a Quaker church in High Point, North Carolina. Ashley grew up surrounded by this heritage.

She eventually pursued graduate school, receiving a Master of Divinity from Liberty Theological Seminary and a Doctor of Ministry in Leadership and Global Perspective from George Fox Evangelical Seminary, where she studied in London, Cape Town and Hong Kong. In 2006, she became a recorded, or ordained, Quaker pastor in North Carolina.

Now at TWMC herself and an ordained elder and deacon in the Global Methodist Church, Ashley is excited about her role as Pastor of Missions. Ashley is married to Christopher Harbuck. Chris has two children, Palmer and Kit, both married. Kit and his wife have a son, Hank. Ashley’s son, Mac, who is from Haiti, now lives in The Woodlands with Ashley and Chris, as does their beloved black lab, Molly.

WORKSHOP:

Abide: The Word That Changed My Mission Mindset. Have you ever felt that missions can become more about doing than being, about building instead of connecting? Based on John 15 and the Greek word meno (abide), this workshop explores how a simple yet profound shift — embracing a ministry of presence — can transform the way we engage in missions.

Learn how "abiding" redefines missions from transactional to transformational, emphasizing relationship over results and connection over construction. Discover how abiding in Christ inspires a new way of serving, where being present with others becomes the most powerful expression of love and partnership.

Through personal stories, scripture reflection, and practical insights, this session will challenge you to reimagine missions as a journey of abiding, both in Christ and with the people you are called to serve. Whether you’re a seasoned missionary, a short-term volunteer, or simply curious, this workshop will encourage you to prioritize presence and leave a lasting impact that flows from the heart of abiding.