Hi, I’m Reverend Dr.Ashley L. Dowden
A Chicago native from the city’s far south side. My journey of faith and scholarship has always been rooted in the conviction my mother instilled in me: that I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me (Philippians 4:13). Over the years, God has guided me to merge my passion for spiritual growth with academic excellence, equipping me to walk alongside others in their own transformative journeys.
My academic path has been both rich and purposeful. I hold a Bachelor of Science degree from Wilberforce University, a Master of Arts degree from National Louis University, a Master of Divinity from McCormick Theological Seminary, and a Doctor of Ministry in Family Therapy from Amridge University. Currently, I am pursuing a Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Governor’s State University, as I prepare for licensure as a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor. Each step of this journey reflects my commitment to serving God’s people with both compassion and skill.
As a reverend co-pastor,teacher of God’s Word
My journey of faith and scholarship has always been rooted in the conviction my mother instilled in me: that I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me (Philippians 4:13). Over the years, God has guided me to merge my passion for spiritual growth with academic excellence, equipping me to walk alongside others in their own transformative journeys.
Ordained in the United Church of Christ, I have served faithfully as Associate Pastor of Covenant UCC in South Holland, IL, and previously as Associate Pastor of Discipleship in Matteson. Beyond the pulpit, I have been entrusted with leadership roles such as Chair of the Chicago Metropolitan Association’s Ministerial Standing Team and Dean of CMA Cluster Five. These roles have allowed me to mentor, guide, and encourage fellow clergy in their spiritual journeys, nurturing a strong and united faith community.
At the heart of my ministry lies a vision of transformation—healing that encompasses the mind, body, and spirit, empowered by the love of Christ. I seek to engage a growing community by offering daily inspiration, fostering meaningful connections, and creating spaces for conversations that promote wholeness and empowerment.
It is my hope to help individuals and congregations alike embrace their divine essence as fearfully and wonderfully made (Psalm 139:14), while being renewed in mind and spirit (Romans 12:2). Through this work, I believe we can build communities of faith where brokenness is met with compassion, resilience is nurtured, and transformation becomes a living testimony of God’s grace.
