It is an exciting time to be a part of Ascension’s ministry. Our numbers are growing through the invitation and welcome of each of our members as we reach out into the world with the message of God’s ever-faithful love. We invite all who would like to become members or associate members of Ascension. Please indicate your interest by contacting Katie Adelman or calling the church office.

Becoming a part of this community of faith will help us shape the ministry goals and opportunities that will make a difference for you and your family. Our strength is in our gathering. Together we can build a church community responsive to our needs and prepared to serve the world around us.

Our ministry plans reflect our desire to keep our members informed, create a supportive worship and learning environment for all ages, strengthen our relationships to each other, and offer our highest and best to all who come through our doors. And we are committed to reaching out to the world beyond these walls, equipping one another to be grateful servants of our generous God.

Now is the time to get involved as a member (full-time) or associate member (winter resident). Your participation will greatly influence our success as we boldly follow the Spirit’s lead.

INVITATION...

‘Invitation’ is the buzz word in Lutheran Christian congregations today. Implied in any invitation is the idea that we like what we see – there is energy around what we are doing. How we talk about ourselves and the message we send to others often becomes the primary motivation for others to join us...or not.

For example, the Thursday morning ‘Sow What?’ Bible study has nearly outgrown the room. Why is that? Not just because we advertise it in the bulletin insert. Not just because they serve good coffee or are really friendly. It’s growing because those who are participating find it challenging and beneficial for their daily living and are buzzing to invite others to come and receive those same benefits.

In days of old, when crowds came to church because it was the right thing to do on a Sunday morning, we had the luxury of talking in generalities and resting on the merits of other’s initiative. Back then it was possible to continue activities and programs that no longer served a need – just because we’ve always done it that way.

But times have changed – and we are challenged to change, too. Practicing our faith includes letting go of past successes or failures, in order to give focus and energy to current goals and accomplishments. And when your own experience of worship, study, or serving brings you joy, why not spread the joy by inviting someone else to share the experience?

In the scriptures, there is no room for arm-chair discipleship. We are the Church, the presence of Christ in the world. The Word of God has commissioned every Christian to “go out and train everyone you meet, far and near, in this way of life, marking them by baptism in the threefold name: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. (Matthew 28:16ff, The Message) What we say and how we say it matters. How we live reflects what we believe.