Two weeks ago, Ascension joined churches and other groups throughout the country in ringing our bells as a solemn memorial to the enslaved Africans who arrived on these shores 400 years ago, as well as in repentance for slavery and its legacy that continues to the present day. This past Sunday, September 8, 2019, our service included further reflections on how slavery has shaped our history and our present moment, and how our faith calls us to do justice and seek healing in light of the scriptures for the day. You can listen to the sermon by our Rector with this link. The liturgy featured special music by guest baritone Malcolm Merriweather, singing Spirituals and pieces by African American composers. It is part of an ongoing conversation we will have at Ascension this year, so stay tuned. Much gratitude to the NYTimes for the tremendous resource provided by the 1619 Project. You can access the NY Times link here. For reading guides, activities, and other resources to bring The 1619 Project into your classroom, check out pulitzercenter.org/1619.
Newsletter
Parish News: December 21
This week, the rector reflects on Advent’s invitation to hope when circumstances feel bleak or overwhelming. Drawing on Isaiah’s story of King Ahaz and Matthew’s account of Joseph, she explores the tension between realism and trust—between protecting ourselves from disappointment and daring to imagine what God might do. These texts challenge us to notice where cynicism or caution keeps us from hope, and to consider the risks of faithful dreaming. Advent asks whether we can trust that God is truly with us, even in the messiness and brokenness of our world.
