Ascension News (June 5, 2020)

AdminChurch eNews

  • At this time of the year, gardeners are working the soil, planting seeds, watering, and watching for the results of their labours.  With patience and lots of care, it is a very rewarding experience.  It is also within our power to plant seeds to make the world more just, tolerant and loving - seeds that will create a more beautiful world in years to come.
  • Hopefully, you were able once again to view the live service last Sunday.  Again this Sunday, the Parishes of St. Michael and All Angels, St. Mary the Virgin, the Good Shepherd, and the Ascension are hosting Morning Prayer from the Book of  Alternative Services.  Come and join us at transmission.ca (You do not need to be on Facebook to view the live service.)
  • A new website for the Parish has been launched.  You can check it out at ascensionnl.ca. It is still under construction!  However, they are in great need of photos.  They would like everyone to look into their collection and see if you can find pictures that you feel would add to the history of the Parish.  You can forward electronic ones by email. Actual prints can be dropped off for scanning and will be returned to you unharmed. They are aiming to have this seen to in the next couple of weeks.  Thanks so much!
  • You are able to help with the Foodbanks in Mount Pearl via the gofundme.com site until the end of June, 2020.  Every dollar counts!  Just log into the site, search Parish of the Ascension as our Parish is receiving money on behalf of all the congregations in Mount Pearl, and follow the prompts to make a donation.  Thanks so much for making a difference!
  • Father John has written a very moving  "Resurrection Reminder" for the Chimes this week.  You can read it in its entirety in the Chimes which will be posted on the church's website as well as on the Parish's Facebook.
  • Greetings from the Youth Group this week:  Our youth group represents the parishes of St. Mary the Virgin, St. Michael and All Angels, the Cathedral in St. John's, St John the Evangelist in CBS, the Church of the Good Shepherd, and the Church of the Ascension.  The compassion, care, fun and faith shown by youth and their 'young at heart' leaders, are examples of God's mission at work.  COVID-19 has not stopped our youth from getting together in a new format - ZOOM!  We have reached out to one another to see how each other is doing. It is wonderful to see them and hear about how the pandemic has changed their lives, yet they have learned how to cope and do things in a new way.  We have met each other's pets, seen where each hangs out in their homes, and have welcomed new members.  Even on Zoom, their energy and enthusiasm are infectious, and for that we, their leaders, are truly grateful.  From all the leaders and the youth, please stay safe.  Blessings to you all!
  • Don't forget 'Thursdays in Black.'  Each Thursday, the Parish of the Ascension hosts a zoom hour with Rev'd David - there is an offering of prayer, the lighting of a candle, and the opportunity of education from local resources from the St. John's Status of Women Centre, as well as guests from across the country.  Check in the Chimes to learn how to link to attend the zoom meeting.  This is also streamed live to the Parish of the Ascension Facebook page.  Check out the information regarding this special hour in the Chimes each week.
  • Special thanks to Coffee Matters!  Of course, you are aware that Coffee Matters is closed in Mount Pearl.  On behalf of the Parish we want to thank Scott Hillier and his team for reaching out in the community and supporting all the parishes.  During the pandemic, Scott made and donated cold plates for many people in the parishes.  For this, and for all you have done and will do, we ask God to bless you and we are ever thankful that you express through your person and your business the gifts of hospitality, kindness, equality, and justice.
  • Important message regarding Summer Camp!! The Anglican East NL is sending an invitation to the Virtual Lavrock Summer Camp 2020.  It will be a camp unlike any other!  Read about where, when, who, and how in the Chimes this week and find out how to make contact regarding this camp.  Once interest is expressed, you will receive a complete information package - and it is all free.  However, pre-registration is required as parental permission is required.  So check it out asap and spread the word!
  • The clergy still continues to reach all parishioners.  So once again, if you haven't been contacted by phone or e-mail, please send your contact information to [email protected] as our parish list may be in need of an update. Or, if you do not have an e-mail, please call the church office and leave a message. In the meantime, if you or someone you know is struggling during this time, please let one of the clergy know.
  • Special thanks to the website team!  You have done an excellent job! Thanks for all the hard work and countless hours that have been spent in getting our website to where it is.  May God continue to bless you in this ministry.

May God be with you all, 
Jean (On behalf of the Ascension)

Note:  I am sending an important message from the Rector in a separate piece of enews.  It's a Covid-19 update as it relates to the Parish of the Ascension.