Knowing that it had been a while since a certain parish-ioner had been to church, the priest made a visit to his house and knocked on

the door. When the parishioner answered, he invited the priest in to sit by the fire and of-fered him a drink. The two chatted for some time and then both fell quiet as they watched the fire blazing. After some time, the priest went to the fire, picked up the tongs and removed one of the burning logs and set it to the side of the hearth, away from the rest of the flames, and returned to his chair. They both watched quietly as the fire in the lone-ly log slowly died out. As the rest of the fire blazed on, the log removed seemed cold and dead. Returning to the fire the priest placed the dark, dead log back onto the flames. Within moments the log was rekindled and began to burn again. The priest rose from his chair, thanked his host for the drink and said good night. “Thank you for the visit and for the fiery sermon…see you next Sunday,” said the parishioner with a wink.

The Bible constantly uses flame as a holy image: the tongues of flame at Pentecost that descend upon the disciples, Moses and the burning bush, The pillar of fire that led the Israelites through the desert, and

of course, John the Baptist says “I baptize you with water…He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire.”

One of the fuels that keeps our fire burning is YOU. As we busy ourselves with Summer plans, remember that your contri-bution to our flame is important - even in the summer. See you Sunday!

A Word from Andrew Thayer

THE TOWERC h u r C h o f t h e A s C e n s i o n l M o n t g o M e r y , A l A b A M A

An episCopAl pArish in the DioCese of AlAbAMA

o

Pentecost

June & July 2016 www.CoAsCension.org

Church of the Ascension l 315 Clanton Avenue l Montgomery,AL 36104 l (334)263-5529 l www.coascension.org

Vacation Bible School: June 6-9Joseph’s Journey from

Prison to Palace8:30 a.m. – Noon,

Rising K4-6th Gradeat Church of the Ascension

Registration forms have gone out. (Return ASAP for planning purposes.)We are bringing back the marketplace for this year’s VBS where children will explore through experience the story of Joseph and his brothers as an example of God’s provision. So don’t go on vacation…plan on being in Montgomery and at VBS this year! Volunteers needed! For questions, contact Tiffany Nishibun (263-5529, tif-fany@coascension.org)

On Thursday, June 16, the Ascension is holding a “Safeguarding God’s Children” Workshop in Ascesion Hall. This is man-datory training for anyone who’s min-istry includes serving children — that includes Sunday School teachers, people working with the youth group, the Ves-try, etc. We will start at 5:00 p.m. and will serve a light meal that you can eat at your table while the class is in progress. Every-one is invited to attend—help us make Ascension a safe and joyful place for our children. Call the church office (334-263-5529) to make your reservation.

Diocesan Homecoming: June 10-12

Diocesan Homecoming is just about the best summer vacation opportunity around! Formerly known as “Camp Day,” Diocesan Homecoming is the evolu-tion of Family Camp - where old friends gather and new friends meet in God’s Backyard to rest, play, worship,

and ENJOY GOD’s CREATION with others. It is open to all ages and we encourage you to bring your family and friends. Children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. There will be lots of Camp Activities and lodging will be in the new Bethany Village for all to Enjoy! All are invited to come for the day, stay one night, or come for the whole weekend! Register:

www.campmcdowell.com / Georganne Perrine (205-358-9230, gperrine@dioala.org)

G E T I N VO LV E D ! S E E W HAT ’ S G O I N G O N !

Spiritual Growth & FellowshipChildren & Family MinistryNO Children’s Sunday School or Wednesday Evening Activities until the Fall.

VBS 2016: EGYPT: Joseph’s Journey from Prison to PalaceJune 6-9, 8:30 - Noon, at the Ascension(See front page for more information.)

Youth MinistryNO Youth Sunday School, Coffice, or Wednesday Evening Activities until the Fall.

June 6: Monthly Service Project Serving Dinner with Mr. Goodwyn for Reality and Truth. Arrive at the Joshua House at 4:15 p.m., transportation will be provided.We will return and join Fr. Andrew for a movie on the big screen in Joshua House.June 14: Six Flags TripWe will leave the church back parking lot at 7:00 a.m. and return around 10:30 p.m. We are looking for the Coke or Dr. Pepper cans with the discount ticket price. (They are in stores now.)

July 4: Monthly Service ProjectServing Dinner with Mr. Goodwyn for Reality and Truth. Please be at the Church at 4:15 p.m. (see above, June 6) - 4th of July fun afterwards with Fr. Andrew. Don’t MISS IT!

July 10: White Water Express TripLet’s ride the Rapids! - Phenix City, Alabama - The bus leaves immediately after the 10:15 a.m. service from the back church parking lot. We will retun late. Please call the Youth Office for more details (263-5529, ext. 115).

July 13: EYC Girls Night OutPlease meet at 6:30 p.m. in the Joshua House. Our very own Rosa and our new Youth Mentors will join you for dinner and fun on the town. Please call to RSVP (263-5529, ext. 115).

Women’s MinistryDaughters of the KingDaughters of the King will not meet during June, but on Sunday, July 17 , at 8:30 a.m. for a breakfast meeting in the Small Dining Room. For more information, contact Lynne Coker (354-5504, cokerlynne@aol.com).

Food for the Journey (Early Risers & Working Women!)Women of all ages gather Tuesday mornings at 7:00 a.m. in

Ascension Hall for breakfast, fellowship and spiritual growth led by Becky Taylor. New members are welcome.

Men’s MinistryMen’s Prayer BreakfastMen of the parish and community gather Thursday mornings at 7:00 a.m. in Ascension Hall for food, fellowship and spiri-tual growth. Through the summer Andrew Thayer will lead an in-depth Bible Study on the Gospel of Mark. Led by the clergy and guests. Breakfast ($3). Brotherhood of St. AndrewMeets Sunday, June 12, at 8:45 a.m. in the Small Dining Room to discuss summer projects. For more information, contact: Brett Hall (334-318-6081, brettchall@hotmail.com). Brotherhood of St. Andrew is an international order of Episcopal men and boys. The Brotherhood endeavors to accomplish its mission through the threefold disci-plines of Prayer, Study and Service.

Parish Life & MinistriesEducation for MinistryEnrollment for the 2016-2017 Course Year is Open. EfM is a course of theological study developed and under the auspices of the School of Theology at Sewanee. EfM classes start in Septem-ber and conclude in May. We have had many members of Ascen-sion graduate from EfM. Through reading of the course materials and studying the Bible, along with a discipline of critical thinking known as Theological Reflection, you build a strong foundation for faith and, as St. Paul said, “...a peace that passes all understand-ing.” Contact: Brett Hall, EfM Mentor for the Ascension (brettchall@hotmail.com).

Episcoparty! Episcoparty! is an evening of food and fellowship held at the home of a parishioner. It is OPEN to the parish. Watch for upcoming information about our next Episcoparty. Contact Cara Coreale if you would like to host or cohost an Episcoparty! (531-5222, caracoreale@yahoo.com).

Moveable FeastThe Moveable Feast is a gathering much like Episcoparty!, but for younger families with or without kids. Watch for upcoming infor-mation about our next gathering.

Prayers & SquaresAnyone interested in making quilts for those in need of prayer is invited to join the ladies on the second Tuesday of each month at 9:30 a.m. (This month: Tuesday, June 14) For more information, please contact Rebecca Drennen (430-1448, rgd310@knology.net).

WorshipCompline with Encore! Join us on the first Sunday evening of each month at 7:30 p.m. in the Nave (June 5 & July 3).

June/July 2016 l 2 l Church of the Ascension

Acolyte Training Acolyte Training is being scheduled by the Worship Committee. Please call the Youth Office (263-5529, ext. 115) if you would like to be trained to be an Acolyte.

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www. coascension.org l (334) 263-5529 l 3 l June/July 2016

New Beginnings UpdateThe New Beginnings program has ended for

the summer. On Wednesday, May 18, we ended the tutoring session early so volunteers and par-ticipants could enjoy some ice cream and social-izing. This program changes lives and it was an op-portunity to thank the volunteers for their generous self-gift; it was lovely watching the bonds of affection between tutors and participants.

Although the weekly meal and tutoring part of the program is over, the chil-dren have two fun weeks ahead in June:

First, 30 participants of New Beginnings will get to attend a theater camp at Alabama Shakespeare Festival. Diana Van Fossen was able to raise most of the funding to cover the camp expenses and the good people of Ascension raised an additional $1250.00.

The following week, New Beginnings will offer a day camp program here at the Ascension.

Finally, the NB leadership team here at Ascension is gearing up for the Safeguarding God’s Children Workshop on June 16 and preparing a policies and procedures manual. This manual will be the basis for a tutor orientation and training session that will be offered before the new school year begins.

Please keep a lookout for more news in the weeks ahead.

Sunday Morning Breakfast

The breakfast kitchen will be on vacation during the months of

June, July & August. Pastry, cereal and coffee will be available during this time for

those who enjoy the Sunday morning fellowship.

Summer ServicesSundays: 8:00 a.m., Rite I

& 10:15 a.m., Rite IIWednesdays: 5:30 p.m. , Rite II

4th of July HolidayThe Church Office will be closed

Monday, July 4.

Save the Date!

Night at the Biscuits GameAll Episcopal Churches: THURSDAY, August 25, 7:05 p.m.

Don’t Forget!

Please continue your giving through the summer months.

News & Events (continued)

Confirmation Sunday with Bishop Marray, May 9, 2016

Confirmands:Eric KidwellCarlton KingScott PageBill Weston

* * * * * * * Javier Castro

Karen ConnerGreyson CruseJohn Stabler GallionRiley HarrisonOlivia Jones

McDowell LeeHannah MurphreeLeanne PorterfieldElizabeth SpeirsVirginia SpeirsCaroline StricklandJason StricklandWilliam ThayerJane YelvertonKay Yelverton

Reception: Rodrigo Barragan

The Rev. Rosa Lindahl

Ascension Day SchoolEmployment Opportunities

ADS is now hiring for Fall 2016. If interested, please call or email ADS (334-241-0825, ads@coascension.org).

ADS Director Position: We are currently accepting applications for the ADS Director position. Please send or submit your resume by June 30 to ads@coascension.org.

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June/July 2016 l 4 l Church of the Ascension

Serving & Outreach

Snacks Needed! New Beginnings Summer Camp

This year Ascension will host a week of New Beginnings Educational Center’s Summer Camp, Monday-Thursday, June 27-30. Last year the children greatly appreciated the snacks provided by church mem-bers. If you could contribute some juice and goodies for one of these days, please contact Mildred Wakefield (wake7@me.com; 201-4854). Thank you!

A Thank You Letter Received from Romulo Alvarado

Dear Members:We wish from the bottom of our hearts that God blesses you greatly and grants you all of the request and desires of your life. We send you a big hug to show our appreciation to you, for being our sponsor and people with great hearts that help us selflessly. Godfathers who safely and consistently provide us with delicious and nutritious food for our school lunch.THANK YOU, THANK YOU! For your help during the past year and for continuing to do it in this new year. Hoping to God that continues for many years more. In our prayers we ask God to bless and protect all of you. To the parents, teachers and students of C.E.B Romulo Alvarado of the community El Coragual Moropocay it is a blessing to have you. We say goodbye hoping that you come to visit us soon, thank you.

Beans & Rice MinistryIf you would like to help “scoop & bag” the beans and rice, we

would welcome you. It usually takes a couple of hours every two or three months. Or if you would like to help distribute, we meet at the Joshua House from 9:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. on the second Saturday of each month. (June 11 & July 9) For more information, contact Pat Rutland (415-518-1674).

Meals on Wheels The Ascension prepares meals on the 2nd & 4th Saturdays of each month at 6:30 a.m. in the church kitchen. (June 11 & 25 / July 9 & 23) Volunteers are needed to prepare 100 meals to deliver frozen to MACOA for distribution. If you would like to make a monetary donation, please send your donation to the church office. Make checks payable to the Ascension, earmarked for Meals on Wheels.

Service Dogs Alabama GraduationSunday, August 7, at 2:00 p.m.

Montgomery Museum of Fine ArtsVisit www.ServiceDogsAlabama.com

for more information. Pictured is Michael & Brandi

(Diabetic Alert Dog), Gratuating 2016.

Thank You! fromHoly Cross School

We would like to thank the members of Church of the Ascension for their faithful support throughout this school year. Ascension members support Holy Cross in so many ways through prayer, board service, volunteer service, chapel assistance and financial contributions.

The Loving Spoonfuls Soup Sale, a joint effort by Ascen-sion, St. John’s, and Holy Comforter, raised $9,471 this year. Outreach donations provided additional funding, allowing our school to fulfill its vital mission for the children in our community. We are grateful for the generous support of the people of The Church of the Ascension.

Raymond Alexander Kinney III born April 24, 2016, to parents Mary Margaret & Ray Kinney;

grandparents, Warner & Missy Mathis; and great grandmother, Hazel Mathis.

Richard Fletcher Calhoun IIIborn April 30, 2016, to Brittney & Richard Calhoun.

Jonathan Davis Thornbury, Jr.born May 12, 2016, to parents Katie Murphy & J.T. Thornbury;

and great grandparent, Ann Pilcher Thorington.

Sage Pruitt Walterborn May 29, 2016, to parents Skye & James Walter;

grandparents, Laura & Jimmy Walter and Sara & Bill Davis.

Parish Family News

Ascension Day, May 5, 2016

Food, Fun, Families & Friends!

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Music MinistryContributions to the Music Ministry

The Music Ministries Discretionary Fund has been established to provide special resources for Music Ministries. Anthems may also be purchased in memory or honor of loved ones. Memorials and contributions may be addressed to the Director of Music Ministries and made payable to COA Music Discretionary Fund.

Karen and Marvin Campbell, Camille K. Carr, Hobbs Foundation, Pat & Jim Franklin

In Memory of Bob McLendon: Fred Zoes

Compline Sunday, June 5 & July 3, with Encore!

Wells Cathedral

July 6-16, 2018The Ascension Choir has

been invited for another Cathedral Residency in England! This one will be at Wells Cathedral in Somerset, England. In addition to the Choir, we expect to have room for 18 additional travelers. Our ‘groupies’ from the Salisbury trip will tell you that we had a wonderful time, and we cannot overestimate the joy in the choir that they were with us. The cost of the trip is expected to be around $3,300 per person. The cost of the trip without air is expected to be around $1,300-1,400. Travel-ers will be able to arrange their own flights, if desired.

The cost will include all travel and gratuities, 9 nights’ accommo-dations at the historic Swan Hotel, full breakfast each day, 4 evening meals and daily excursions. Early planning for the excursions include Windsor castle and St. George’s Chapel; a private guided tour of Wells cathedral; excursion to Bath, with a tour of the Roman Baths;

excursion to Berkeley, including Berkley Castle; and an excursion to Glastonbury with a guided tour of the Abbey. On Thursday, our plans are to travel to Oxford with a private tour by our own Andrew Thayer. From there we will travel to Chadlington for a concert and dinner in Chadlington with the Thayers’ former parishioners.

OUR TRAVELLERS LIST IS FULL, WITH ONE ON THE WAIT LIST! IF THERE ARE ENOUGH PEOPLE ON THE WAIT LIST WE MAY BE ABLE TO ADD ANOTHER 10-12 PEOPLE! PLEASE LET US KNOW IF YOU MIGHT BE INTERESTED.

If you think you might be interested in travelling with the choir on this trip, please contact Becky Taylor as soon as possible (334) 263-6433 or beckytaylor@coascension.org. This is not a commitment, but an expression of interest.

We hope that many of you will support the choir financially for this trip, so that all members of the choir are able to be part of

the trip. More information coming soon!

The Ascension ChoristersPARENTS, please pencil The Ascension Choristers into your child’s Wednesday/Sunday schedules for next year!!! Excel-lent musical and liturgi-cal training and a great chance for contribution to our life at Ascension. Contact Becky Taylor for questions or suggestions!

The Ascension Choristers celebrate the

end of the year!

The Ascension Choir on Vacation! The Ascension Choir will be on ‘vacation’

from July 17 through August 7. These committed and talented individuals work hard through-

out the year, and we thank them for their service to Church of the Ascension. I hope that when you see them, you will express your own appreciation. Soloists will sing and play during this period.

www. coascension.org l (334) 263-5529 l 5 l June/July 2016

EYC: Senior Dinner, May 1, 2016

Ascension YouthPhilip R. Goodwyn

(Youth Sunday Senior Reflection)

Youth Advisors

The Season of Pentecost: June & July 2016

Ascension StaffThe Rev. Andrew R. Thayer - Rectorathayer@coascension.org, ext. 106

The Rev. Rosa Lindahl - Associate Rector rlindahl@coascension.org, ext. 102

Mrs. Becky Taylor - Director of Music Ministries beckytaylor@coascension.org, ext. 107

Mrs. Tiffany Nishibun - Director of Spiritual Formation for Children tiffany@coascension.org, ext. 109

Mr. Will McQueen - Sextonwill@coascension.org, ext. 112

Mrs. Tracy Hinton-Adams - Finance Administratorthinton@coascension.org, ext. 114

Ms. Diane Cauble - Administrative Assistant / Publicationsdiane@coascension.org, ext. 113

Church of the Ascension315 Clanton AvenueMontgomery, Alabama 36104

Non-profit Organization

U.S. POSTAGE PAID

Permit No. 18Montgomery, AL

RETURN SERVICE REQUESTED

2016:Mary BentonPhilip GoodwynDebbie SteindorffJimmy Walter, Jr.*

2017: Ellen Brooks Paul Moore Jeff Thomas John Wilson**

2018:Stacia BaileyTim LewisPhelps ReidPolly Williamson

Vestry 2016

*Senior Warden**Junior Warden

Robert Gould Treasurer

Pat Franklin Clerk

Friends,

The following is taken from an article by Burns Bennett which appeared in the Montgomery Advertiser on April 19, 1970:

Rector Mark Waldo of the Episco-pal Church of the Ascension must be one of Montgomery’s more courageous ministers. Surely many a preacher delivering his Pearls from the pulpit has often wondered if the “far away” look worn by listeners might not involve thoughts other than those being discussed in the sermon. But dared he ask?

Mark Waldo did! At Easter’s 9 a.m. service, he had the ushers hand out paper and crayons. Then he asked parishioners, young and

old, for their illustrations of vagrant thoughts as he preached. The results were placed on a large bulletin board. It must be said, the experiment was a success. Mr. Waldo won the moral victory. By far, most of the artistic offerings concerned themselves with thoughts of Resurrection and the Savior’s triumphal return. As might be expected since it was Easter, the cross, tomb flowers, trees and the peace symbol were dominant.

But I would be less than honest if I didn’t admit that one listener showed a golf club drawn back to swat a ball off a tee, the flagged green in the background. No, all thoughts weren’t completely spiritual, just most of them.

--- Hugh Alsabrook, Archivist

Church Office HoursOpen: Monday through Thursday (8:30-4:00 p.m.)Closed: Fridays and Holidays

Sunday Services:8:00 a.m. Holy Eucharist I9:15 a.m. Adult Sunday School 10:15 a.m. Holy Eucharist II

First Sunday: 7:30 p.m. Compline

Monday-Friday:8:00 a.m. Morning Prayer(Tuesdays: Choral Morning Prayer)

Wednesday:5:30 p.m. Holy Eucharist II