Imagine Chicago in 1857. A small mission of St. James Church was founded. This humble beginning marked the start of the Church of the Ascension.
Today we stand before a testament to faith. It embodies architectural beauty and spiritual significance. The Church of the Ascension has a rich history. It began as a mission. Later it became a leading Anglo-Catholic parish.
Parishioners first worshiped at various neighborhood sites. In 1873, ground was broken for St. Faith’s Chapel. It is now St. Michael’s Hall. This marked a significant step. The community started to establish a permanent home.
The consecration of the present Church of the Ascension in 1896 was a grand event. The Living Church described it as one of the greatest functions ever held in the Episcopal Diocese of Chicago. This highlighted its importance. The church became a central figure in the community.
Since 1869, the Church of the Ascension has been at the forefront. It championed the Anglo-Catholic tradition within the Episcopal Church. Early conflicts arose with the Bishop of Chicago. These disagreements focused on worship practices. Over time, the Church of the Ascension became a national leader. The Episcopal Church embraced practices such as every-Sunday Eucharist and a greater appreciation for ritualism.
Music has always been integral to worship at the Church of the Ascension. It was widely known for its beauty and excellence. This commitment continues today. The parish is still renowned for its glorious sacred music.
Beyond worship, the Church of the Ascension has a history of outreach. These endeavors included language programs for immigrants. They also had neighborhood evangelism and a parochial school. A monthly food pantry ministry continues to serve the community.
In the mid-1950s, Ascension became uniquely multi-racial. The church continues to value diversity. This includes race, socioeconomic status, age and sexual orientation.
Special liturgies enrich the church year. There is a Solemn Festival of Lessons and Carols in Advent. A special Mass is held on the Feast of the Ascension. Solemn processions mark Corpus Christi. Requiem Masses honor All Souls’ Day. Stations of the Cross are observed on Fridays in Lent.
The Church of the Ascension was the first Anglican parish. It offered Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament since the Reformation. Benediction is offered monthly. It takes place after Evensong from October through May. It also occurs on Fridays in Lent and at the end of the Corpus Christi Mass.
The Church of the Ascension continues its traditions. The principal service is the Solemn High Mass. It is celebrated at 11 a.m. according to Rite II in the Episcopal Church’s Book of Common Prayer. The Mass includes sacred ministers, acolytes, incense and music.
At Solemn High Masses, the choir sings Gregorian chant. These are called the minor propers. This practice is rare. The Ascension Schola Cantorum chants the minor propers in Latin.
The history of the Church of the Ascension is documented. George C. Giles, Jr. wrote “History of the Church of the Ascension, Chicago, Illinois (1857-1982).” Thomas C. Reeves provided background. His introduction is titled “The Oxford Movement and the Midwest.” A supplement covers the years 1982-2019.
As you leave the Church of the Ascension, consider its enduring legacy. It stands as a beacon of faith and a testament to community. Its history is rich. Its future is bright. The Church of the Ascension welcomes all.