Why White?

White is the liturgical color for the Easter season,

which runs from Easter Day until the Day of Pentecost, May 19.

Also taking place until Pentecost is The Cross Project, a display of 37 handcrafted crosses made by parishioners. Look for them on the church windowsills.

Thank you for nourishing our spiritual life thru your art!

Altar Flowers

This Sunday's Altar Flowers are given in loving memory of Hallie Stone Maxon

by her children and grandchildren.

Rector's Forum:

Transhumanism and the Image of God

9am Sundays April 14-May 5

If you are not versed in the concept of Transhumanism, then you will not want to miss the next Rector’s Forum at Ascension! 

Transhumanism is a philosophical and intellectual movement that advocates the enhancement of the human condition by developing and making widely available sophisticated technologies that can greatly enhance longevity, cognition, and well-being. Transhumanist thinkers study the potential benefits and dangers of emerging technologies that could overcome fundamental human limitations, as well as the ethics of using such technologies. Join Father Jim for a four-week journey of education as we look through a Godly lens at the future of humanity.  

"What's the name of that nice person I see at church every week?"

Our new membership directory will answer that question!

Have you received a phone call about an appointment to have your picture taken?

• We're growing and there are lots of new faces!
• Here's an opportunity to have a professional portrait made
• And get to know each other better!
• Your participation will help to make our directory complete!

Every participating family or household receives a complimentary 8x10 professional portrait and a printed directory, with an opportunity to purchase additional photos if you wish.

And yes, you can have a photo taken of you with your pet !

PHOTO DATES & TIMES

Thursday, May 30 & Friday, May 31 --- 1-8pm

Saturday, June 1 --- 10am-6pm

Sunday, June 2 --- 11:30-5pm

For appointments, call The Portrait Cafe: 1-877-896-9667 ext. 360

or click on the link below!

All appointments must be made, or canceled, through The Portrait Cafe.

New to Staff

We welcome Erica Wiedemann, who has joined the church staff as Executive Administrator, as Maggie Talbot transitions to the Rector's Administrator. Erica comes to us from social service and community action vocations, with a background in executive leadership and law.

Vacation Bible School

July 8-12 at 9am-1pm

$75 per child

We’d love to see any child who wants to attend to have the opportunity!

If you’d like to sponsor a student for the week, please contact abbyt@churchofascension.org

The Chapel in the church provides some wiggle room with a play area, changing table, and snacks. Coloring book totes (in the Chapel window) offer something to do while sitting in the pew. Help yourself!

Kids Church is a program for children in K-5^th grade.

Children will connect with their faith through lessons, discussions, music, and crafts!

Our goal is to offer Kids Church every week and we could use your help. Many hands make for light work. Volunteering even a few times a year would be amazing! We’ll work with your schedule. 

Ascension Youth Group for Grades 3-12

5-7pm Sundays

Games, activities, outreach projects, and off-campus trips as youth explore what it means to follow Jesus! Supper is provided. Contact Youth Leader Susan Katte for information at susank@churchofascension.org

Congratulations to our former Youth on their wonderful accomplishments!

Read about them below.

Andy Fullerton is enjoying his job at the National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), currently stationed in New Port, RI, on the fisheries research vessel Henry B. tour. In 2026, Andy will most likely be stationed in Washington DC for a headquarters stint.

Courtney Cochran has been working at the Belleair Country Club for 5 years. She and her boyfriend have planned a trip to Hawaii in May.

Reed Avers was recently engaged to Carly Pyle. They plan on getting married in March 2026.

Emily Ellingham will start medical school this summer at Rocky Vista Osteopathic University in Parker, CO.

Lauren Ellingham will be attending the University of the Incarnate Word, School of Osteopathic Medicine, in San Antonio, TX.

Hannah Moore is a student at University of Central Florida, working on a Mechanical Engineering degree. She's also a Calc One Learning Assistant, (keeping her very busy!) She is seeking an internship.

Savannah Philips will graduate in August from Nova Southeastern University in Tampa with a master's in Speech Therapy. She is getting married in November 2024.

Isabelle Whitehead graduated from flight school in 2023 from United Aviate Academy. She is now an instructor, and working on flight hours to soon fly commercial planes with United.

Hannah Taylor works for Marriott Hotels in Chicago, and was recently promoted to Assistant Director of Finance Accounting. She enjoys the many activities available in Chicago and hanging out with friends.

Bette Crown's Book Study Class

10:15am Thursdays April 11-May 16

A six-week course studying Max Lucado’s book titled “In the Footsteps of the Savior.” The author writes, “May you hear him as he speaks to you. May you be changed as you journey in the footsteps of the Savior."

Father Leo's Bible Study 10am Tuesdays

The Book of Revelation: Father Leo leads the discussion of these prophetic visions that speak of God's sovereignty over human history and a future for a renewed and peaceful earth. 

Christian Yoga

1pm Tuesdays & 10am Wednesdays

A Christ-centered program in the church, with Scripture and prayer. $5 per class.

Pack-a-Sack Packing Date

11am Sunday April 21 Parish Hall

The Pack a Sack Team delivers meals once a week to the Head Start Program at the Gulley Center in Clearwater. These little ones live in families facing food insecurity and need the healthy snacks we provide. Contact Deacon Sandy Jamieson or just come and help!

Upcoming Concerts

7:30pm Friday, April 19

The Florida Orchestra plays Mendelssohn’s Octet for Strings, and works by Philip Glass and Arthur Honegger, Chelsea Gallo conducting. Tickets $25 at the door.  

2pm Sunday May 5

Premiering the original choral works of a young Clearwater composer, Jen Renfroe: "Requiem for Our Loves: of A Harmonious Celebration Life for the Living and the Dead" and "Pathways: A Journey to Find Peace."

The Overcomer

I cannnot bring about solutions for the havoc wrought,

By grief sustained, for trials and pain, from loss in battles fought.

Yet in His presence, all is well . The face of God is clear

Though winds of life are raging on, His peace can stop our fear.

When waves of anger cover us, from wounds we have within,

It is forgiveness through His Word that helps us love again.

God is our refuge in the storm, the place our soul abides.

We shelter from the threatening winds, where we can always hide.

Tribulation will be ours, great sorrow may unfurl,

Yet God says, "Child of Mine, take heart. I've overcome the world!"

----Sharon Chenoweth