Church of the Ascension is fully accessible. The courtyard ramp leads to the hall door and there is a lift to the Sanctuary. The two gender-neutral bathrooms, in the hall, are spacious and a change table is available. We are currently working to improve our supports for people with hearing or vision difficulties – please speak to the rector for more information. As of winter 2022/23, we still require masks indoors during services.
What to expect on Sundays (10 a.m.)
This service is friendly and relaxed, welcoming people of all ages and backgrounds to participate. Drawing on the Anglican tradition but open to experimentation, we use modern, inclusive language that is both clear and beautiful.
Everything you need to participate in the service will be on the screen at the front of the church. Please feel free to sit or stand; to join in out loud or simply by listening, as you feel comfortable.
Most Sundays, our services follow a typical pattern and include a traditional sermon. Sometimes, however, we try out other ways of responding to God’s word. We might gather in small groups for short, focused conversations or enter into a longer period of silence or even experiment with arts and crafts. It is important to stay flexible and open to the many ways the Spirit might speak to us!
The Eucharist is celebrated every week and everyone is welcome to receive communion. We use home-baked bread (gluten-free is available) and wine. If you would prefer to receive only a blessing, cross your arms in front of your chest when you come forward.
Children are welcome! The sight and sound of children in church is a joy, so please don’t worry about any disruption. There is a children’s area at the front of the church (near an exit, just in case!) and lapboards, paper, and crayons are available for people of any age to take back to their pews.
What to expect on Thursdays (10 a.m.)
This informal communion service takes place around a table in the church hall and is usually a small group—anywhere from four to ten people. We begin by hearing the week’s Gospel and then enter into a time of silent contemplation, listening for what the Spirit might be saying to us. Participants are invited to share what they heard before we continue with prayer and communion, passing the bread and wine around the table.
Coffee and further discussion on the reading follow the service. We end at 11:30.
What to expect on Mondays (7:30/8:30 p.m.)
Monday nights begin with a drop-in social hour (7:30-8:30) with tea and refreshments in the church hall.
The compline service begins at 8:30 in the sanctuary and consists of prayer, song and silence. It upholds the ancient tradition of sung plainchant psalms and prayers, with inclusive language and open intercessory prayer. The service lasts about 30 minutes, and we leave the sanctuary in silence. All are welcome to join in the singing or pray in silence as they are comfortable.
Test the waters!
Drop by on Sunday or Thursday mornings, or take a guided tour with one of our churchwardens. You’ll learn about the liturgy, the community, and have an opportunity to ask questions.
Have coffee with the Rector
The Rev’d Victoria Scott is the Incumbent at Church of the Ascension. During the week, she’s available for private appointments or to have a coffee.