The Rev. Christian W. Marien
Pastor
Pastor Chris Marien has served at Ascension since December 2010. He graduated from Luther Seminary in 2000 and Pacific Lutheran University in 1996. Before arriving at Ascension, he served congregations in Pleasanton, CA and Boise, ID.
A passion for youth and children in the life of the church keeps Pastor Chris on the edge of his seat. For the past 18 years, he has participated in the planning and production of the national ELCA Youth Gatherings.
Pastor Chris is married to Ileen, whose main job is to keep his feet on the ground. They have three children, Andrew, Anna and Hadley.
The Rev. Anthony F. Acompanado
Pastor
Pastor Anthony Acompanado was ordained and called as pastor at Ascension in August , 2021.
Pastor Tony recently celebrated 10 years serving at Ascension. Tony began his career at Ascension as Director of Youth Ministries in January 2014. The following year, his role changed to include children’s ministries and he became the Director of Faith Formation. Tony began studying at Wartburg Seminary in 2016 and became our pastoral intern in winter of 2018.
The Rev. Edwin Aparicio
Pastor
Pastor Edwin Aparicio was ordained and called as pastor at Ascension in June, 2023.
A member of our congregation since 2013, Pastor Edwin joined Ascension’s staff in January 2019 as our Spanish-language minister, leading worship for our Spanish-speaking families and ministering to Spanish-speaking community members in challenging situations. He became our pastoral intern in May of 2021, continuing to serve as our Spanish-language minister while attending seminary.
Edwin, originally from El Salvador, lives in Waukesha with his wife Sarah and two daughters. He began seminary training in fall of 2019.
Staff
Vicki Taylor
Director of Music Ministries
Vicki Taylor currently serves as Director of Music Ministries and primary organist at Ascension. She directs the Ascension (Adult) Choir, Ascension Ringers, and children’s choirs. She has taught music to all grade levels in public and private schools, including 25 years as the Middle and Upper School Choral Director at the University Lake School in Delafield. Vicki also directs the Jubilate Chorale, a 34-voice auditioned ensemble performing in the greater Milwaukee and Lake Country areas.
Amy Gilgenbach
Director of Administration
A member of Ascension since 1998, Amy has been council secretary, Sunday school teacher, and mom’s group leader. Prior to becoming Director of Administration, Amy was a freelance reporter/editor.
As the Director of Administration, Amy can help with general questions, calendar events, communications, membership, facilities and billing questions.
Amy and her husband Al (Mt. Meru ambassador, former Sunday school teacher, and amateur disc golfer) have two adult sons.
Tamie Greenwood
Administrator
A long-time Ascension member, Tamie joined the church staff in May 2017. Tamie keeps the church office running smoothly, all while answering the phone, greeting visitors, doing bulletins, making calendar appointments, editing communications, making eye-catching displays on the screens and so much more. She provides a calm and steady influence in the office when things get a little crazy.
Tamie is married to Craig, former church council president, and mom to three children. Tamie is also a proud pet mom.
Ben Janzow
Praise Band Leader
Inspired by popular christian artists, Ben brings a modern edge to worship at Ascension. If you enjoy listening to the K-Love radio station be sure to visit our 10:45 a.m. service.
Ben is a Waukesha guy where he enjoys giving guitar lessons, biking, hiking, and playing with his band on the weekends.
We’d love to hear from you and answer any additional questions you have.