From the rector: “The first Sunday of Lent always features the gospel story of Jesus’ temptation, but of course each writer tells it differently. I think Mark’s version, which we will hear this Sunday, is my favorite. It is spare and short, and doesn’t tell us details of the temptations — which allows us to imagine Jesus’ struggles in light of our own.” Also this week at the Sunday Forum following the 11 am service, the start of a weekly discussion through Lent and into Eastertide based on the book (and videos) by Amy-Jill Levine “The Gospel of Mark: A Beginner’s Guide to the Good News.” Join us!

The rector writes: “As we stand at the threshold where the brightness of Epiphany gives way to the Lenten descent, I offer you this prayer poem from Jan Richardson. It speaks beautifully to themes of both seasons, intertwining in a pilgrimage both interior and unexpected. May it suggest ways to following Jesus deeper into the desert places, deeper into God’s call and the way of love.” Read the poem “The Map You Make Yourself” in this week’s newsletter, and join us for Ash Wednesday at either 8 am, Noon, or the service with full choir at 7 pm. Ashes will also be imposed at the front gate throughout the day on Wedesday from 9 am to 6 pm.

In recognition of the Feast of the Presentation of Jesus in the Temple (Friday, February 2), Mother Liz shares a poem: “Candlemas” by Denise Levertov, which reflects on Simeon’s faith as he welcomes the “infant light” in his “ancient arms,” expressing the fulfillment of his heart’s desire, ready to depart in peace. On Sunday, we’ll hear from Cindy McCloskey, our candidate for the diaconate, as she preaches this week’s sermon. And after the service, the Sunday Forum participants will discuss her sermon and provide constructive feedback, all of which is a part of her training for ordination. Join us!

This week, in honor of the 80th anniversary of the first woman to be ordained a priest in the Anglican Communion, the rector shares the inspiring story of the life of the Rev. Dr. Florence Li Tim Oi. Also this week: Ascension’s annual parish meeting is this Sunday following the 11 am service. Come be a part of the conversation about the mission and ministry of our parish!

This week, as prelude to our reading from the book of Jonah on Sunday, the rector reflects on what it means to see through the eyes of others — “whales and Ninevites, enemies and foreign species” — and shares a portion of a poem, Humpbacks, by Mary Oliver. Also this week, the Sunday Forum will discuss: “What do our personal financial priorities say about our faith, and where does Ascension fit into your financial life?”