Q. Tell us about your family. What brought you to Ascension?

A. The first time I walked through the doors of Ascension was with my husband and 3 children in June 1984. The music, and especially the choir, brought us, but we stayed because we were warmly welcomed.

Q. How has Pastoral Care shaped your experience of holy community?

A. In 2004 our congregation was smaller... with no associate nor deacon. Recognizing how difficult it was for him to meet every pastoral need, I approached him about creating a ministry to coordinate care. People were sometimes overlooked when the church was not informed of their circumstances. Soon after, Tony and I attended a service at Trinity Church in Apalachicola, Florida, where a Pastoral Care Ministry was being commissioned. I whispered to Tony, "This is why we are here today."

Our ministry included visitation, prayer, bereavement support, correspondence, transportation, and handyman crew. I was going out of my comfort zone; visitation was not something I had ever done; however, the Lord provided. He guided me through each visit, teaching me to listen to those I visited, giving me the words when I prayed for them at their bedside. I would encourage anyone who has a passion to serve others in this way, who is a good listener and who would like to build new relationships to be a part of pastoral care.

Q. Why is giving to this holy community important to you?

A. Until later in my life, I pledged in order to support the budget: to pay the bills. However, in my later years, it has become more of a spiritual practice. Our time and talent are critical, but we also need the financial support to meet the basic needs of the lives of the poor and hungry.

Q. How do you see God growing this holy community?

A. Ascension is growing. Increased funds will allow us to increase our programs, Christian formation, worship offerings, staff, etc. Anyone who comes through our doors will feel welcomed, experience a beautiful worship service, be inspired by our Christian formation opportunities, and feel the positive energy in the air.