A parishioner’s reflection on Psalm 39 sparked a lively conversation about favorite psalms at Evening Prayer recently. Mother Liz shares her own favorite, Psalm 139, which moves her with its affirmation of God’s intimate knowledge and presence everywhere—comfort and challenge during suffering. She reflects on how these ancient prayers/poems can be lifelong companions across millennia, joining us with others who have prayed them. She invites us to find our own favorites.

From this week’s newsletter: Ascension’s ancient parish hall air conditioners overheated during June’s hot weather, prompting replacement with newer, more efficient units. The installation process required removing portraits of past rectors, sparking a task force to consider additional renovations as the parish prepares for its 200th anniversary and the next century of ministry.

As we mark the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, Mother Liz shares Lydia Wylie-Kellermann’s prayer poem that reimagines patriotic devotion. Rather than pledging allegiance to flag or nation, the poem redirects our commitment toward creation itself, toward the vulnerable and imprisoned, toward communities whole and loved. It asks: where is liberty and justice for those suffering? A forum discussion following Sunday’s 10 am service will invite deeper reflection.

This week, our prayer gives thanks for LGBTQ+ children “deeply beloved and beautiful” and celebrates ancestors whose courage opened ways for authentic lives. It acknowledges current threats to hard-won rights and prays especially for transgender youth facing attacks on gender-affirming care. The prayer honors Ascension’s LGBTQ+ members and commits us to sharing cups of water with lemon and love with all who march and serve.

In this week’s newsletter, the rector tells us about the diocese’s “Season of Freedom” from Juneteenth through July 5, marking the Declaration of Independence’s 250th anniversary. She describes celebrations of Juneteenth, LGBTQ+ Pride Sunday with guest preacher Br. Brandon Barnes, OSF, and the feast of Rev. Dr. Pauli Murray—civil rights activist, women’s rights pioneer, and first Black woman ordained in the Episcopal Church—inviting us to reflect on freedom, democracy, and our calling to justice.