Who we are ......
The ORDER OF THE ASCENSION founded in 1983 has helped ground and center its members in their daily life and their roles as parish leaders and developers.
The Promise
Members take a three year promise "to seek the presence of Jesus Christ in the people, things and circumstances of life through stability, obedience and conversion of life." The cross of the Order is given at this time.
Shared Commitments
The revitalization of parishes and the struggle for compassion and justice in our society
Common Life
A five day gathering each year for spiritual retreat, reflection on our role as leaders, social time and business. Usually held in a week near the Feast of the Ascension.. The weight given to the elements may vary from year to year.
Each member takes responsibility for their own spiritual life in a manner that fits their situation, reflects the Promise and our common commitments, and includes listening for the wisdom of God and others in the creation and in the longing of their hearts.
A Benedictine spirituality grounds the Order's life
Membership
Membership is open to laity, bishops, priests and deacons; to baptized people of any Christian communion. The Order's current membership draws from Arkansas, Florida, Seattle, California, Georgia, Delaware, New York City, and Massachusetts.
All members receive a significant amount of training in parish development. New members are expected to complete Shaping the Parish or the Church Development Institute (or a comparable program) within three years of beginning the membership process. People interested in membership are requested to complete at least five days of such training before formally submitting their application. Applicants are admitted and take the Promise at the first common life gathering following the completion of the five-month discernment period. "The full CDI or Shaping the Parish program must be completed to remain a Professed Member."
The Order is a dispersed Christian community related to the Episcopal Church.
Finances
Finances are handled by:
Members paying their own costs for the yearly common life event, i.e., room, meals, cost of materials or outside retreat conductor.
A travel pool in which all participate resulting in everyone paying the same travel cost; and
A yearly pledge toward any administrative costs.
Ascension Press
Ascension Press is a ministry of the Order of the Ascension, producing tools for parish development and oversight consistent with the mission and general orientation of the Order.
The Rule of the Order of the Ascension
To Make a Beginning - Emmett Jarrett's sermon at the taking of the Promise -- January 30, 1988
The Ascension - Elizabeth Koenig's sermon at the Renewal of the Promise -- October 5, 1992