“Ascension of the Lord” is what “La Ascensión del Señor” means in English. This Orthodox cathedral stands as a beacon of faith in Mexico City. It all began with dedicated individuals seeking a true Christian faith.
The story of Iglesia La Ascensión del Señor starts in the neighborhood of El Peñón de los Baños. Leaders from the Mexican National Catholic Church desired canonical belonging to the Orthodox Church. They envisioned spreading Christ’s true faith to the Spanish-speaking community, particularly in Mexico.
In 1969 Father Demetrio Royster became a bishop. Contacts with the faithful in Mexico intensified. By 1970 the Patriarchate of Moscow granted autocephaly to the Metropolia of America. It became the Orthodox Church in America. One of the first actions was to establish missions. These missions aimed to strengthen spiritual ties with the Mexican community. There was a known interest in such ties.
The community and committees of El Peñón de los Baños requested this. The church gained cathedral and parish status. It became the episcopal see for the Orthodox Church in America. Bishop Demetrio Royster of Washington became the mission’s official visitor in Mexico.
In 1972 the Holy Synod of the Orthodox Church in America established the Exarchate of Mexico. The universal Orthodoxy was officially informed. From its founding the Exarchate was under the Church’s Primate.
Demetrio Royster then received the title of Archbishop of the Diocese of the South. He also became the Exarch of Mexico. Hieromonk Alejo Antonio Pacheco Vera became the General Administrator. Later, he was elevated to Archimandrite. He administered all parishes, missions, and clergy.
Today Iglesia La Ascensión del Señor continues its mission. It offers services in Spanish. Vespers are held on Wednesdays and Saturdays at 7:00 p.m. On Sundays, Divine Liturgy takes place at 8:00 a.m. A pontifical Divine Liturgy follows at 9:30 a.m. Sunday School is at 12:30 p.m.
The church is located at Avenida Río Consulado e Irapuato 53, Colonia Peñón de los Baños. You can reach the office Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays from 5:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Catechism is on Saturdays at 10:00 a.m.
Iglesia La Ascensión del Señor isn’t just a building. It represents faith, community, and the enduring spirit of Orthodox Christianity in Mexico City. It stands as a testament to those early leaders. They sought a genuine connection with their faith. The church serves as a reminder of the Orthodox Church in America’s commitment. It strengthens spiritual bonds with the Mexican community.