Transitions are moments that each of us inevitably experience in our lives. Some are anticipated, some are entirely unexpected, and others are a natural part of our lives. But whatever the transition may be, we are never alone.

In the Gospels, we read of Jesus walking with the disciples on the road to Emmaus. They were facing a big transition. The loss of what they thought they knew, and the uncertainty of what was to come. Yet, Jesus met them exactly where they were, transforming their anxiety into hope. In the very same way, Jesus walks with us today on our earthly journey, using the Holy Spirit to comfort, guide, and give us peace in a troubled world. As a Christian community, we have a call. Jesus calls us to look outward, to walk alongside and support one another, both those inside our church walls and those in the wider community especially during times of profound change.

For years, Ascension community has had the privilege of walking alongside Hawthorne Elementary School. Together, we have put our faith into action in many ways:

• Every year our high school students lovingly prepared birthday gifts for all the children.
• A variety of groups prepared and delivered breakfasts and lunches for staff.
• Many of you stepped up as volunteers, sacrificing your time to serve.
• We blessed educators by providing vital classroom supplies.

Now, Hawthorne is facing its own major transition. On June 11th, Hawthorne Elementary School will officially close its doors.

Students and staff will be relocated to Lowell Elementary School. Sadly, this shift means that some staff members will lose their jobs. The current principal of Hawthorne will become the new principal at Lowell. This major transition brought the Hawthorne principal to meet with me. She wanted to deeply thank the entire Ascension community for walking with them through the years, and she asked for our prayers for the staff members losing their jobs. Then, she asked the question: “Will Ascension continue walking with us when we move to Lowell Elementary School?” Without hesitation, our answer was YES. We will continue to practice Jesus’ call to walk with and help our neighbors, ensuring that our bond with these students and educators isn’t tied to a building, but to the people.

Our call to accompany others also extends to our sibling congregations in our own synod. In May, Pastor Tony, Pastor Chris, Council Vice President Klelin Saravia, and I had the honor of attending the installation of Pastor German Novelli at Faith / Santa Fe Church in Milwaukee.

Ascension was invited because we have spent many months walking alongside Santa Fe during a time of transition and administrative renewal. Santa Fe had never operated with a formal budget. Through the guidance of Ascension’s pastors, we helped this Latino faith community establish its very first annual budget, setting them up for long-term stability and growth.

Our vice president Klelin Saravia had the opportunity to speak at the installation. She said this “As Ascension, we are overjoyed to have walked with you on this journey of renewal through the collaboration our pastors have provided. Officially welcoming Pastor German as your new spiritual leader is a moment of great excitement, hope, and renewal for the entire Santa Fe community. Our Ascension community prays that this new chapter you begin today will be one of great spiritual growth, unity, and abundant fruit for the Lord’s work.”

The Apostle Paul reminds us that our community life should be a true reflection of the love of Christ. In Galatians 6:2, he writes: “Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.” When we share the weight of someone else’s transition, we are doing the exact work Jesus called us to do.

As we journey through this summer of 2026, you may encounter your own transitions, whether they are anticipated, unexpected, or natural. When those moments come, remember that the Holy Spirit is actively working within you to bring peace, love, and joy. Let us depend on His word in difficult times, and let us continue to be the hands and feet of Jesus for each other, moving forward together in faith.

Pastor Edwin

Reprinted from the May 2026 newsletter.