Category: Newsletter

This week, Fr. Ed shares a personal and spiritual journey inspired by his late uncle, a monk who moved from Trappist life alongside Thomas Merton to decades of spiritual exploration in Asian ashrams. Reflecting on Letter to the Hebrews’ vision of a shared, unfinished perfection, Fr. Ed weaves together his own studies in Modern Buddhism, the practice of meditation, and the Christian call to universal compassion. He invites us to see how these traditions converge in cultivating inner peace and awakening the spirit to our deep, God-given connection with one another.

This week, Father Ed reflects on the surprising connection between our “peak superhero” cultural moment and the real-life heroism of Episcopalians advocating for justice. In response to recent detentions of immigrant parishioners in our diocese, he urges us not to be consumed by outrage, but to ground our actions in the love of Christ, allowing the gospel to transform our hearts. Celebrating the successful reunification of Yeonsoo Go with her mother, the Rev. Kyrie Kim, he reminds us that—together—we can act with courage, compassion, and even a bit of superhero spirit.

This week, the rector reflects on the beauty and mystery of prayer, inspired by Maren Tirabassi’s poetic reinterpretation of the Lord’s Prayer which begins: “Our Feather….” Rooted in a child’s imaginative mishearing, the poem invites us to explore new and tender ways of naming God, and to approach prayer with creativity, openness, and wonder. As Jesus reminded his disciples, sometimes the deepest truths are revealed to “the little ones.” How might you reimagine the language of prayer in your own life? Read on for inspiration, insight, and a blessing.

This week, Mother Liz invites us to reflect on prayer and courage as we prepare for Sunday’s forum discussion of Bishop Mariann Edgar Budde’s How We Learn to Be Brave. She shares a powerful excerpt from Bishop Budde’s writing on prayer — not just as a plea for help, but as a declaration of presence and purpose. In a time of challenge and uncertainty, we are reminded that we are called to show up, stay grounded in God’s love, and offer what we have for the good of others. Join us for this timely and hopeful conversation.

This week, the rector shares a deeply personal reflection inspired by the late poet Andrea Gibson, whose life and words celebrated presence, vulnerability, and love in all its fullness. In a month marked by personal loss and public tragedy, she invites us into a space of tender reflection — honoring the fragility and wonder of life, and choosing to keep loving the world even amid sorrow. In gratitude, grief, and hope, she reminds us to keep stretching our hearts.

This week, Mother Liz reflects on an evening walk in Washington Square Park, where the surprise appearance of fireflies stirred memories of childhood wonder and offered a flicker of hope amid difficult times. As she invites us to notice and cherish these fleeting gifts of the natural world, she names them as “beauty medicine” — small signs of resilience and joy that can nourish our hearts. In a world marked by sorrow and injustice, she asks: how are you finding wonder, beauty, and healing this summer?

This week’s newsletter delves into thoughtful patriotism, featuring Mother Liz’s reflection on July 4th. Rejecting exclusionary nationalism, she presents a vision of caring for our country as stewardship — bending the arc toward liberty and justice for all through voting, advocacy, environmental care, and welcome of newcomers. She highlights the new #OneSingleAct campaign by the Diocese of New York, inviting each of us to commit a simple act of kindness, courage, or connection — and share it online to inspire others. Join us in building a more compassionate nation, one small action at a time.

We are thrilled to welcome the Rev. Cynthia Black to Ascension this Pride Sunday. She has advocated for LGBTQ+ inclusion in the church in numerous capacities, including as a founding member of Claiming the Blessing (which worked for Marriage Equality) and as part of the Integrity legislative team for many General Conventions. Recently retired after 39 years of ordained ministry, Cynthia served churches in Minnesota, Michigan and New Jersey. She is married to her college sweetheart, Dr. Rebecca Walker — and in fact our rector preached at their wedding in 1988!

This week, Mother Liz reflects on the story of Elijah’s wilderness experience—his exhaustion, despair, and eventual renewal through something as simple as food, rest, and water—before encountering God in the hush. Drawing a parallel to our own overwhelming times—marked by political tension, injustice, and global unrest—she emphasizes the power of practical self-care: sleep, nourishment, hydration, exercise, prayer, and community. We’re reminded that we don’t have to bear the burdens alone; together, we can support one another in doing God’s work with love and endurance.

This week’s newsletter spotlights Trinity Sunday, beginning with the recent pastoral letter from Bishop Heyd, who so recently celebrated Ascension Day with us. His message highlights renewal, connection, and shared grace across the diocese — an important moment of communal reflection. Mother Liz reflects on the Spirit’s dynamic work and invites us into the unfolding story of the church “for the healing of the world.” Look for news about this Sunday’s forum on the Trinity following the 11 am service; updates about our summer schedule (hint: worship on Sunday mornings moves to 10 am next Sunday); a memorial concert for former Executive Director of Voices of Ascension, Liz Norman; volunteer opportunities, and more. Join us in worship, conversation, and service!