Welcome Friends, This week at Ascension, we begin Lenten Study Groups and continue our observances of the season of Holy Lent. Rev. Lumbard gave perspectives of Lent in the church calendar as a time to repent or turn around and come closer to God. It is often a time of fasting or 'giving up something', mostly so that a clearer path to God can be opened. Think about how busy we all are and how our busy-ness can limit the opportunities to understand the needs of God's people and to hear God through prayer. Also Lent can offer a time of reflection, if we take the time for it. Remember too, it's all God's Time, we've just been given the choice on using it !!

As we slog through the end of Rochester's winter, please continue to pray for those who are ill or in special need and those serving in the military. To keep the list current, contact the church office if you would like to add or drop someone's name from the 'Prayers of the People' on Sundays. Also please keep the work of our wardens and other parish leaders in your prayers as the search for a new Rector of Ascension progresses. E. Swarts is again leading our Church World Service Blanket & Tools of Hope Drive and would love to hear that you are able to contribute to this effort. Upcoming, in March Spaghetti Dinner on March 6, (featuring the super sauce that Stuart and his gang will make and also looking at an optional offering of a Vegan sauce,) and a Fix-up Day later in March. We had a go-around on working through the web communication the other day and we're happy to have L. Phillips offer her help in getting us going on Facebook. Don't fret, you don't have to go or learn social media or but that has become one of the ways today's young (and not-so-young) people connect with each other and connect with causes and organizations. We'll look into it and keep you posted.

Next Sunday's Gospel, another from Luke (second Sunday in Lent)
Luke 13:31-35

SSome Pharisees came and said to Jesus, "Get away from here, for Herod wants to kill you." He said to them, "Go and tell that fox for me, 'Listen, I am casting out demons and performing cures today and tomorrow, and on the third day I finish my work. Yet today, tomorrow, and the next day I must be on my way, because it is impossible for a prophet to be killed outside of Jerusalem.' Jerusalem, Jerusalem, the city that kills the prophets and stones those who are sent to it! How often have I desired to gather your children together as a hen gathers her brood under her wings, and you were not willing! See, your house is left to you. And I tell you, you will not see me until the time comes when you say, 'Blessed is the one who comes in the name of the Lord.'"

Blessings and Peace, See you on Sunday !

As usual, if you have ideas or interest in contributing to upcoming Ascension Happenings, please let me know, and we'll work them in.

Church of the Ascension
2 Riverside St.
Rochester, NY 14613
585-458-5423