Rector’s Welcome

A Message from the Rector

Dear Visitors and Newcomers, Seekers and Skeptics,

At Ascension, we strive to be a warm and welcoming place. No matter where you are on your journey, you are welcome to participate in the liturgy, to eat at the Lord’s table, and to share a bit of your faith journey if you feel moved to do so. Here there is unconditional acceptance for you, for your family, for your spouse or partner, for all who are important to you and with whom you share your life.

If you are a seeker or a skeptic, come and ask the hard questions of theology and faith, and let us struggle through them together. As the saying goes: “Jesus died to take away our sins – not our minds!” One of the strengths of the Episcopal Church and our faith community of Ascension is that we do not have to be the same, feel the same, or believe the same. Diversity is a gift to be celebrated. We strive to have all voices included from a variety of perspectives so we can grow and learn together. And so, no matter where you are on your spiritual journey, you are welcome!

Please help us to get to know you. Introduce yourself to me and to others. Come to coffee hour and chat a bit. Come to one of the many services/events/activities/gatherings that Ascension offers. (Subscribe to our newsletter for more information about all of these.) Get in touch with me directly at revdrjeb@comcast.net or 301-587-3272.

The people of Ascension, the parish staff, the parish leadership, and I strive to the best of our ability to live out Christ’s call to be a sacred place where all people can find love, support, spiritual nurture, education, comfort, friendship, opportunities for mission in the local community and the world, joy, and fun! Welcome to Ascension. We hope you find in us—in time—a spiritual home.

Faithfully, Joan+
The Rev. Dr. Joan E. Beilstein, Rector