Our History
We praise God for his work in us since 1843.
The Church of the Ascension began its journey on November 28, 1843, when a small group of concerned local Episcopalians met for the purpose of organizing a congregation in Westminster, which at the time was a small village with a population of approximately 500. In May 1844, the Diocesan Convention, held in Baltimore, voted to grant the formal organization of the “Parish of Ascension.” Fundraising began and in August 1844 ground was broken on our Stone Church. In May 1846, on Ascension Day, Church of the Ascension was consecrated.
Stone Church "Then"
This original building, now affectionately referred to as the Stone Church, exemplifies the Neo-Gothic architectural style advocated by the Ecclesiological Society in the 19th century. The Stone Church has been modified only slightly in the past 170-plus years, and is recognized as an historic property by the Maryland Historical Trust.
Sunday School
September-May
After 9:15 am Worship Service.
Children & Youth Ministry
Children's Chapel
September-May
During the sermon of the 9:15 am worship service,
Children’s Chapel provides children ages 12 and under a special opportunity to experience Gospel stories in a creative, visual and imaginative way. As the Gospel lessons are brought to life, at an age appropriate level of understanding, the children learn the many ways they can follow Jesus.
Foundations ( ages 5-8)
The Foundations Class is focusing on basic elements of the Bible through stories, crafts, interactive play and drama. During the first half of the year, we are learning about God’s promises recorded in the Old Testament. During the second half of the year we will focus on Jesus as a Healer in the New Testament. Materials used are from the Episcopal Children’s Curriculum.
Explorations (ages 9-13)
We are learning about Paul’s adventures. We are using what Paul teaches us about loving and serving God to “travel” to countries all around the world. Our passport is filled with Bible verses! Once we finish learning about Paul, we will take a look at Jesus! We will learn about his birth, ministry, death and resurrection. Along the way, we will look at other explorers for Jesus and learn about their lives giving us examples of how we can be the best for Him. The class is learning about how to pray and the importance of prayer and service to others. We play games and do crafts to reinforce the lessons and ideas discussed. We are exploring a book written by Priscilla Shirer entitled “The Prince Warriors".
Transformations (ages 14-18)
Transformations offers teens opportunities to apply what we've learned during their first fourteen formative years to their real-world life experiences in schools, after-school jobs, or with friends. During Sunday morning class time, we engage in book studies, viewings of films and documentaries and music videos. We pray and talk and journal and listen to one another, and otherwise aim to grow. We hoof it to Birdie’s Cafe now and then, spend time with the residents of Brightview Westminster Ridge, prepare meals for Soup Kitchen, and look for ways and means to live out our faith as Christians.
Youth Group
Youth Group meets every 2nd and 4th Sunday of the month from 6:00 pm-8:00 pm. Typically, one Sunday will include an outing – a trip to the corn maze, caroling at a nursing home, or other seasonal activities. On the other Sunday of the month, we will enjoy pizza, games, and fellowship at the church. Join us!
Children's Free Summer Program
Every summer (June-August) a Free Children’s Summer Program is offered and is open to all the children ages 5-12 in our community and beyond. The program includes Single Activities, Vacation Bible School and Drama Camp.
Single Activities
These are 2-3 hours long and focus on a single activity aimed at helping children gain or increase their knowledge or skill in a particular area such as making an Herb Garden, Jewelry Making, Cake Decorating, Soccer, and many more.
Drama Camp
A full day program, where in addition to learning a play from an experienced drama teacher, the children enjoy theme related games, music, and other fun activities. Free lunch is served. The play is presented on the evening of the last day of drama camp.
Vacation Bible School
A one week ½ day program centered on getting to know Jesus. The curriculum involves singing, storytelling, games, videos, crafts, snacks and more.