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.
Monthly Events
Future Events
The Mistletoe Mart
November 2024
The Mistletoe Mart, with its celebrated Christmas theme, is a juried arts and craft event featuring artisans with their handmade products.
Youth Sunday
First Sunday of every month at 10:15 am
On the first Sunday of the month, the 10:15 service is a Youth Sunday; a service during which the children and youth are invited to be active participants in the liturgy.
December 2023
Youth Christmas Party
December 2
12:00 pm
Fellowship Hall
Join us on December 2 at 12:00 pm!
We will have sugar cookie decorating, gingerbread house making, Christmas music, games and more.
Themed Potluck Lunch
Friday, December 15
12:00 pm
Fellowship Hall
December 15: Red and Green
Bring a dish that is red or green and shows your holiday spirit.
The Fellowship Committee is hosting potluck themed lunches every third Friday of the month at 12:00 pm. Join us for a fun time of food and community! Show off your cooking skills with a different theme each month. Plates, flatware, etc. will be provided.
Advent Taizé Prayer Service
Friday, December 15
7:00 pm
Stone Church
The Advent Taizé Prayer Service is named for the monastic spiritual community in Taizé, France.
It is a contemplative service that invites the participants into an awareness of God’s presence through chant-like songs, scripture, and silent meditation. There is no preaching, no effort to teach, and no Eucharist (communion). The lights are dimmed, and candles are lit.
Our Advent Taizé prayer service offers a simple and peaceful space to gather, reflect, and be still.
“It is a time to rest in God, to let the words listened to and sung penetrate one’s being.” ~Br. John from the Taizé Community
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Christmas Play
Sunday, December 17
Join us before the play for a potluck lunch in the Fellowship Hall at 11:45am. Baked Ziti will be provided. Please bring a side dish or dessert.
Angelhead is the story of an angel ornament who
had been feeling pretty good about herself and
thought she should replace Gabriel as the most celebrated ornament at the top of the tree. When she is kidnapped by the family cat and learns humility, she is ultimately blessed to learn anew the real meaning of Christmas.
Blue Christmas Worship Service
A Service of Remembrance and Hope
Thursday, December 21
7:00 pm
Holy Cross Hall
For those experiencing grief, loss, or hardship, the holiday season is far from the most wonderful time of the year. Death, divorce or separation, job loss, financial hardship, illness, or other circumstances mute our experience of joy, making this time of year painful for many.
Join us for this worship experience with space for silence and reflection, music and meditations, recognizing and honoring sadness, grief and difficulty, while holding out hope for healing and wholeness.
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Cookie Walk
Saturday, December 23
10:00 am - 1:00 pm
Fellowship Hall
Proceeds benefit youth and community youth activities.
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Christmas Worship Services
Sunday, December 24
and
Monday, December 25
O come, let us adore Him.
January 2024
Events Dates Times - TBD
Events Dates Times - TBD