Our History
We praise God for his work in us since 1843.
The Church of the Ascension began its journey on November 28, 1843, when a small group of concerned local Episcopalians met for the purpose of organizing a congregation in Westminster, which at the time was a small village with a population of approximately 500. In May 1844, the Diocesan Convention, held in Baltimore, voted to grant the formal organization of the “Parish of Ascension.” Fundraising began and in August 1844 ground was broken on our Stone Church. In May 1846, on Ascension Day, Church of the Ascension was consecrated.
Stone Church "Then"
This original building, now affectionately referred to as the Stone Church, exemplifies the Neo-Gothic architectural style advocated by the Ecclesiological Society in the 19th century. The Stone Church has been modified only slightly in the past 170-plus years, and is recognized as an historic property by the Maryland Historical Trust.
Our Ministries
Here are some of our ministries that are in our church.
DreamBuilders
Contact: Buck Lyon-Vaiden
DreamBuilders is an all-volunteer, faith-based organization of teens and adults. It leads national and international work trips, plus local work days in Maryland, to help build and repair homes for people in need.
Pins & Needles
Contact: Donna Bair
Pins and Needles meets weekly, year-round, creating crafts to sell during Mistletoe Mart and other seasonal events.
Products are also sold in the 1844 Shoppe.
The money raised supports various ministries.
Altar Guild
Contact: Ascension Church Office
A volunteer group whose ministry is to care for the altar, vestments, vessels, and altar linens of the parish.
Altar Guild members prepare the sanctuary for services and clean up afterwards.
Altar Guild members frequently supervise the decoration of the sanctuary of the parish with flowers.
St. Martha's Guild
Contact: Betsy Reinders
The women of St. Martha’s Guild support our members in Seminary, host receptions for the Rector, and sponsor the Annual Shrove Tuesday Pancake Supper.
St. James Guild
Contact: Jill Horn, Sandy White
We provide comfort and peace of mind.
St James Guild was formed in 1989 to provide care and support to a parish family at the time of their loss of a loved one by providing a reception following the funeral service at our church.
