Adult Programs

Conversations on Race

The Conversations on Race (CoR) group arranges programs to learn more about our shared histories and to address racism as part of an inclusive community. Our discussions/programs are based on selected articles, books, or videos that reflect current issues. We welcome everyone as we seek justice and peace for all people.

Since 2013 the group has regularly brought programs to Ascension members, including the intensive “Becoming the Beloved Community” (Sacred Ground), developed by National Episcopal Church. As part of our programming year, we celebrate Martin Luther King Jr. Day and Black History Month in various ways.

For information regarding any of these programs, please contact the parish office at office@ascensionsilverspring.org.

Programs are open to all and take place in-person and via Zoom. Here is a sampling of our recent programs:

  • Author Anna-Lisa Cox joined us for a discussion of her book The Bone and Sinew of the Land, about Black pioneers to new lands in the Northwest Territory in the late 18th and early 19th century.
  • A discussion sparked by an article in the Smithsonian Magazine “South to the Promised Land,” about Blacks fleeing south through Texas to Mexico and freedom.
  • A look at the Osage Murders in 1920s described in the book Killers of the Flower Moon by David Grann.
  • A trip through the present day South through the eyes of Imani Perry in South to America, looking at race relations through time.

If you would like to sign up for our email list or join the planning committee, contact office@ascensionsilverspring.org.

Sacramental Preparation

Church of the Ascension offers preparation for marriage and baptism, as well as classes for Communion education and confirmation preparation. To schedule baptism or marriage preparation appointments, please contact the rector. Confirmation and Communion education classes for children are scheduled at various times throughout the year.

Education for Ministry (EfM)

Education for Ministry (EfM) is a four-year — one year at a time! — program of study and small group reflection. Participants share their spiritual journeys with one another and help one another in the discernment of their ministries.

Our study consists of Hebrew Scriptures (1st year), the New Testament (2nd year), Christian History (3rd year), and Christian Theology (4th year). There will be people from different years in the same group, with common readings and reflections as well as the readings for each year. We usually begin by sharing worship and a meal.

The group meets weekly on most Mondays at the church, starting mid-September. For more information about this program, see https://theology.sewanee.edu/education-for-ministry/. If you would like to speak with someone about the program or sign up, contact office@ascensionsilverspring.org.

Adult Formation Series

Seasonal series are held on Wednesday evenings in Lent and Advent. Starting with a simple potluck at 6:30, we explore any number of themes. The discussion ends at 8:30. All are welcome. Bring a friend!

From Rome to Canterbury

We welcome into our doors many whose journey has started elsewhere. Our class “From Rome to Canterbury” is designed specifically for those who are considering (or have made) the transition from the Roman Catholic Church to the Episcopal Church. Given periodically throughout the year, the class addresses issues of sociology, theology, and history, with an eye to understanding what spiritual riches both traditions have to offer. This is not a class for conversion but a class for discernment as to where God may be leading one to live out their faith walk. Anyone who is interested in learning more about these two faith traditions is welcome to attend. For more information, please contact Rev. Terri Murphy.

Social & Fellowship Groups

A number of opportunities are available for fun and fellowship, including our Men’s Group, Ladies’ Night Out, Women’s Retreat, Elderberries’ Luncheon (for those 55+), and more! Read more about Fun & Fellowship.