Who we are as a church is reflected in our liturgical style and worship – there is room for everyone, including a blend of the high and low church spectrums and their associated tendencies. Worship at Ascension reflects the diversity of its members in many ways, although we all focus on the Eucharist, where we come together at Christ’s table. The Book of Common Prayer 1979 and the liturgy of the Anglican tradition provide the foundation for our worship experience.

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​​The Episcopal Church of the Ascension offers Rite II Eucharists at 8:00 am and 10:30 am each Sunday. Stylistically, the Church of the Ascension presents high church features like the importance of ritual and tradition, seasonal clerical vestments, the

presence of vested verger(s), acolytes, and lay Eucharistic ministers. However, that is balanced by a low church understanding of shared lay leadership and ministry, the value of personal faith and Scripture, “being” the church out in the community, and

offering the hope of the Gospel through volunteerism and service. We value both high church elements within the worship services, yet with a low church relaxed “come as you are” atmosphere.

 

At 8:00 a.m., we have a said Rite II service, offering a quiet and reflective worship. The 10:30 service is also a 1979 BCP Rite II worship, with 1982 Hymnal-driven Hymnody, choral pieces, and anthems. Our choir is comprised of parishioners and

several paid vocalists, led by our organist/choirmaster. The Pasi pipe organ is the primary instrument used each Sunday, although the piano occasionally supplements pieces.

 

Seasonal Services at Ascenion

 

We host several special seasonal services to commemorate Lent and the Easter season, as well as Advent and the Christmas season. 

• During the Lenten season, our Evangelism committee hosts Wednesday evening speaker sessions, including a meal for those gathering to hear inspiring stories. 

• Holy Week services begin on Wednesday night, followed by Maundy Thursday with the washing of the feet and the stripping of the altar. Two Good Friday services include Stations of the Cross, and an Easter vigil service on Saturday night builds to two Easter services. 

• During Advent, we celebrate the Eucharist on Christmas Eve with a vigil service that features the spiritually moving highlight of the congregation singing "Silent Night" in candlelight. On Christmas morning, we hold a single service with more great music and Christmas Carols.

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