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.
Children & Youth Ministry
Children's Sermons
A Children’s Sermon is shared on the 1st and 3rd Sunday of each month. The sermons provide children ages 12 and under a special opportunity to experience Gospel stories in a creative, visual and imaginative way, as well as to provide them with a simple and direct biblical application for their lives. 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 utilizes the curriculum 'Digging Into the Life of Jesus.' This program leads students in Jesus' footsteps from his birth to his resurrection and ascension.
They will not just learn about the historical Jesus; they get to know him personally through stories, crafts, interactive play, videos and drama. They'll discover that Jesus is a real person—a real friend—who makes a difference in their lives today.
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 they’ve learned during their first 14 formative years to their real-world life experiences in schools, after-school jobs, or with friends. During Sunday morning class time, we engage in a wide variety of “discussion starters” like devotionals, that day’s sermon, a prompt that relates to our daily lives, music. 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, aim to participate in the life of our church with church-wide events like a puppet show for the younger children, a winter coat drive for the good of our greater Westminster community, or a talent show, and are always on the lookout 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!
Summer Programs
Mission Statement:
The goal of Ascension Children and Youth Summer Programs is to energize, equip, and empower children to
extend their love of Christ to the world locally and globally.
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.