How many stories can these walls tell? The Church of the Ascension stands as a testament to faith, community and growth in Houston.
Ascension’s story began in 1956. Ten acres of land were purchased near Westheimer and Seagler roads. A small portion was sold to Shell Oil. This recouped most of the initial cost.
Seventeen founders signed a petition in April 1961. This organized the church. On Ascension Day, May 11, 1961, it became a mission. Rev. Hubert Palmer from Holy Spirit provided care. He served as Interim Rector until a permanent one was found.
Initially, the church met in a cemetery chapel. Soon a small sanctuary and classrooms were built. In 1963, Rev. A.W. Rollins became the rector. By 1965, the Diocesan council granted parish status. A new parish hall and education building followed in 1966. Rev. Carl S. Shannon, Jr. then took over. Under Rev. Sidney J. Gervais, the parish day school opened in 1972.
In 1981, Rev. Albert S. Lawrence Jr. oversaw the construction. A 10700 square-foot sanctuary with 320 seats was erected. A 16000 square-foot parish hall was dedicated in 1988. The mortgage note burning was a highlight of the 2000 annual meeting.
Two generous gifts arrived during Rev. Dr. Walter Ellis’s tenure. One provided a passenger elevator in 2001. The other was a covered walkway. It connected the parking lot to the Parish Life Building. This was completed in 2009. A two-tiered fountain graced the courtyard. A memorial walkway honored the Church of the Ascension’s 50th Anniversary.
Rev. Todd Bryant was called to Ascension in 2011. Major structural work in the sanctuary was completed at the end of his first year.
In March 2019, Fr. Mark McDonald arrived from Alabama. He came with his family and a love for outdoor cooking. He even held a fundraiser. The aim was to add a porch to the Parish Hall. It would house his smoker. Fr. Mark navigated the church through the Covid pandemic. He secured a grant to upgrade technology. Online streaming of services became available. Zoom Bible studies started. Families nationwide could now attend special services.
Ascension is actively engaged in ministry. Quarterly mission trips help neighbors. These include hygiene kits and feeding the homeless. The church supports the West Houston Assistance Ministry. This provides food, clothing and client services.
The Church of the Ascension also charters Boy Scout Troop 1836. They meet weekly in the parish hall. A Parents’ Night Out program is available. It is for children aged six months through 5th grade. The Angel Tree Program gathers gifts. These are for children and elderly in need. The Seafarers Christmas Ministry brings joy to foreign seafarers.
The Evangelism Committee welcomes newcomers. Sunday breakfast teams prepare meals. Senior bus trips explore Texas wonders. The Parish Life Activities Ministry organizes food events.
The Altar Guild prepares the church for worship. Acolytes assist the priest. Greeters welcome visitors. Lay Readers and Chalice Bearers lead readings. The Sound System ministry ensures clear audio. Lay Eucharistic Visitors bring communion to those at home. Ushers provide assistance during services.
The Adult Choir sings at the 10:30 am service. The Children’s Choir teaches younger members. Adult Sunday School offers various studies. Women’s and Men’s Bible studies meet weekly.
Alter Flowers brighten the altar. The Fish Ministry cares for the pond. The Landscaping Ministry maintains the grounds. The Property and Grounds Ministry handles repairs.
The Church of the Ascension stands as a beacon. It is a testament to faith and community. It is a place where all are welcome. It is a place where stories continue to be made.