June President’s Report

As we mark the start of summer with summer worship times and outdoor services, there is much to be grateful for here at Ascension. This summer, more than 15,000 students and leaders from across the country will gather at the ELCA Youth Gathering, including a group from Ascension. What an incredible opportunity to help develop the faith of these young future leaders.

Ascension is in a unique position – not only will Pastor Edwin and our youth participate, but Pastor Chris and Pastor Tony are both involved at a leadership level in the Youth Gathering. The fact that our pastors have been invited to serve the national church through leadership roles with the Gathering speaks volumes about Ascension. In many ways, Ascension is seen as a leader within the local and national ELCA community. What a blessing! Both Pastor Tony and Pastor Chris have been involved in serving the Youth Gathering since before becoming pastors at Ascension and we are grateful that their leadership continues. What an incredible opportunity to serve within the walls of Ascension and out in the community by shaping the faith of thousands of students and their leaders. On behalf of the Church Council, we are proud of their hard work and tireless dedication and energy to serving. 

Beyond the Youth Gathering, we begin preparations for Ascension’s 75th anniversary celebration on September 15. This fall, we will take time to celebrate our history as a church – where we started and where we are today. Above all, there is much to be grateful for. God bless.

Amanda Payne, President

A Word from Council

It’s hard to sit at the computer today, Sunday, March 15. It’s time for church and the doors are closed. What a strange feeling. At the council meeting on Saturday, surrounded by council members and staff, making that decision to close the doors of Ascension through March 29. It was a decision not easily made. None of us have been through this or experienced this before. The best is to look for opportunities in the midst of obstacles.

The closing maybe hard, but also gives us an opportunity to dig deeper in our faith, trust in the love of God. Set aside time – talk to God, pray, read your Bible or devotions. Rest. Turn off the TV for a while. Stay in touch with family – including your church family. Finish that long forgotten project. Take a walk. Yes, and even get your spring cleaning done early. We can do this.

One last note, Ascension is a living and viable influence on us and in our community. It needs your support financially, so it can make a real living impact to our community and our love of God. Please continue to give to Ascension. I am available by email. Please let me know if you have a concern or question or just want me to call you and talk. Looking forward to seeing all of you soon. I know in my heart that great things will be happening at Ascension this year because all of you make a difference.

With God’s love and our faith, we can do anything.

Karen Simington
Council President

(Reprinted from the April 2020 newsletter.)