Worship:
Saturday 6 PM
Sunday 9 and 10:30 AM
This Week At Ascension
Called to create opportunities for all people to become devoted followers of Christ
February 9, 2025
Grace and peace to you my sisters and brothers in Christ,
This week is week 5 of our Epiphany Sermon series on Living Wisely and well. So far, we have talked about living fully, giftedly, collaboratively, and lovingly. This week’s installment is called “Living Purposefully.” It is really the tale of 3 calls. The first 2 appear in our scripture stories, the call of Isaiah in the 6th chapter of the book of Isaiah and the second is the call of Peter in Luke chapter 5. The 3rd, well, I will keep that a mystery.
Why is it important to talk about our call in times like this? The reason is that it is just as important as any time in history that Christians understand that we have a purpose that goes beyond any of the needs we often think we have. God is building His kingdom right here, right now, and he is using us to do it. It is the most important thing going on in the world. It is the best thing we can do.
I am looking forward to seeing you and talking more about this in worship this weekend!
Blessings,
Adult Ed This Sunday: Ascension Gifts Impacting the Community
When a need is identified or disaster occurs, Ascension members ask: “How Can We Help?” In adult education Feb. 9, at 10:30 AM, we will learn about the ways our church reaches out to meet needs in our local community and beyond. Come and bring your questions. Come and learn how you might become more involved. We’ll meet in the library.
STAY TUNED… Lent Begins March 5
The church staff is beginning preparations for the season of Lent and Easter. Stay tuned for more details. Here are a few important things to know:
Lent begins with Ash Wednesday on March 5. Come to either morning chapel at 8:45 AM or evening worship at 7:00 PM to receive the Imposition of Ashes and Holy Communion.
Soup Suppers are coming back! Pre-Covid, we had soup suppers on Wednesday nights during Lent at 6:00 PM in Pederson Hall (the gym) prior to Holden Evening Prayer at 7:00 PM in the sanctuary. Many thanks to Shannon Lomeli who will be leading the soup crews on Wednesday nights.
We will be doing a special series based on the book Liturgy of the Ordinary and hope many people will dig deep and will find a companion or a group with whom you can discuss the book. Maybe you can discuss it around the table at Soup Supper.
Lent concludes as we celebrate Easter Sunday on April 20th.
Thank You
Ascension is a font of goodness and blessings, as can readily be seen in this week’s newsletter. We appreciate the writing and photography seen throughout TWAA this week by Pastor Chamie, Pastor Steve, Paul Evenson, Jennifer Avalos, Carol Bjelland, Susanne Hopkins, Jenni Klemp, and Chris Daleiden.
Chapel Today
From Pastor Chamie 2-5-2025:
So it was hard for me to keep it together this morning and not let the tears flow before chapel began as I could feel the Spirit moving. It was an incredibly powerful, heart-filling morning. For the first time this school year, one of our students finally got to be back in chapel after going through cancer treatment.
We also welcomed four new students, two of them having lost their home and school in the recent fires and they have landed with us.
Two of our school parents who are professional musicians sang the song they recently released in response to the LA Fires. Look up Korbee on Spotify and “I Believe in Us” and you can purchase the song for $1 with 100% of the proceeds going to fire relief.
Today my husband told the story of Tabitha in the Bible and how the love of Jesus living in her heart inspired her to serve. One of the ways the school and church has served our community is through Harbor House which takes care of those struggling to make ends meet and to find housing and stay housed. We presented them a check with our donations totaling $20,000.
All of this on top of what happens every chapel – we sing, we pray, we remember God loves us, we gather together from our preschoolers through our 8th graders, over 200 children worshipping, along with parents and grandparents and church staff and leadership and community partners. It is beautiful beyond words. I feel beyond blessed to be a part of something so special.
Chapel today was like the fresh rain, restorative and life-giving for wearied souls tired from the recent hardships and heartaches in the world. Today was Christian community at its truest and best.
Mark Your Calendar!
Tomato Sale & Garden Festival
Friday, April 11, 2:30 to 4:30 for ECC & Ascension School Families
Sunday, April 13, 10:00 AM to noon for EVERYONE – Church, School, & Community
The children and youth of Ascension Lutheran Church & School are once again growing tomato plants. All proceeds from the sale of the tomato plants goes to support outdoor/garden campus programs. There will be other garden goodies as well. On the day of the school-only sale, bunnies will be the featured animal. On the day of the Sunday sale, everyone is invited to come to the Ascension garden* after worship to check out all the plants for purchase, tour the garden area, peek in the beautiful new greenhouse, and enjoy a little petting zoo.
*The Ascension Garden is located at the far end of the big parking lot where the “bungalow” – the small modular building – sits. Go down the ramp to the right of the bungalow to discover a wonder of plants and goodness!
Tomato Seed Starting Begins February 9!
The children and youth of Ascension Lutheran Church & School begin planting seeds this month for the annual tomato sale coming in April. All of these seeds will be growing in our new, amazing greenhouse that was made possible by donations from the Monday Morning Women’s Bible Study and the late Eric Jensen (former school dad who died in June of 2023).
Children who attend the 9 AM Sunday School on February 9 will plant during their class time. Children who attend the 10:30 AM worship service on February 9 will have an opportunity to plant tomato seeds with Pastor Chamie after “children’s time” as they leave briefly to plant seeds on the patio and then return to worship. Confirmation students will work on the tomato seeds (on February 9) and be placing them all in the greenhouse right after the conclusion of the 10:30 worship service and will be done by 12:15.
Students in the TK through 8th Grade will plant seeds during their “Nature Lab” time the week of Feb 10-14. The students at the ECC will plant tomato seeds after chapel on Wed, Feb 12. If you are an adult who would like to help with this project – either assisting with students or helping to care for the plants in the greenhouse and/or helping with other preparations in the garden, email Pastor Chamie at pastorchamie@alcto.org or Dr. Charlotte Miranda at cmiranda@alschool.org.
Light and Hope With Dave Nonnemacher
Monday Morning Bible Study Devotional, Feb. 3, 2025
Dear Friends in Christ:
Perhaps like some of you, I spent about two weeks of January grousing about light. I didn’t have any — at least some of the time. It was on again, off again. No lights also meant no stove or oven, no refrigerator, washing machine, computer or TV.
It was, in my estimation, at least, profoundly irritating and disruptive.
But then, I was reminded of this saying:
“I cried because I had no shoes until I met a man who had no feet.” — Helen Keller
Last weekend, I “met” people who had no light, and was it humbling. In many cases, they hadn’t had any light for — well, not just for weeks or even months, but years. There was no light until Dave Nonnemacher, partnering with a miraculous connection of other caring people — including us at Ascension — brought it to them.
Nonnemacher spoke at Ascension last weekend and, with “you-are-there” videos, told the story of taking solar light kits — called “Ray of Life” kits — to people in Ukraine. Fifty to 60 percent of the country, which Russia has bombed into darkness, is without electricity, making food and fuel tough to get and cell phones impossible to charge.
So Nonnemacher and others bring not only the light kits, but food, fuel, water sterilization kits, even tech connections so cell phones can be charged using the light kits. So far, he has made five trips to Ukraine; another one is scheduled for April.
This humble man from Minnesota is certainly bringing actual light to an embattled people, but he is also a shining example of Matthew 5:16:
In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.
I don’t know about you, but my light does not always shine for Jesus. Sometimes I can get so fixated on my own problems — like power outages that last days — that my light for Christ dims and I fail to notice that I might help lighten someone else’s often far greater darkness. And yet, we are, Jesus tells us in Matthew 5:14, “the light of the world.” And we are told to “walk as children of the light.” (Ephesians 5:8b)
What does that mean? I think it means we live the way of Christ — we not only see the sadnesses and needs of others around us, we reach out in His love and kindness to help them. God calls and equips each of us to do that. And when we do, we bring light to another’s life and we glorify God.
This does not have to be on the scale of Dave Nonnemacher to matter. Perhaps it is a small thing — an encouraging word, feeding a hungry person, serving someone ill or disabled, or comforting a grieving soul. It might also be doing something for someone we will never meet, like donating money for a Ray of Life kit or another humane cause.
That is our Christian calling — to show up for those in need, to be Jesus’ light in the world by being His hands and feet.
To whose world can you bring His light today, my friend? Look around — someone needs you.
— Susanne Hopkins
Hello Church Congregation & Families,
What an incredible turnout we had for our recent service project! Dave Nonemacher shared his inspiring testimony about the Solar Light Ministry and how it has deeply impacted his life and the lives of many in Ukraine. He spoke about his journey into this ministry and how it has brought light in both a literal and figurative sense to those in need.
A powerful moment during the event was a simulation that allowed our students to experience what it feels like to be in complete darkness, mirroring what many in Ukraine are enduring due to power shortages. It was a small but moving reminder of the challenges others face daily.
Together, our youth program—ranging from 7th to 12th grade—assembled 13 solar kits. It was a beautiful opportunity for us to come together as a community, united in our mission to bring light to those who need it most. The kids truly enjoyed being part of this project and were grateful for the chance to assist in this amazing ministry.
We’re so thankful for all those who contributed to this impactful event. Please take a moment to check out the photos of the night, where our youth program worked hand-in-hand with the congregation to make a difference.
Thank you for your continued support, and may God bless all of you!
Sincerely,
Jennifer Avalos
Youth Director
New Classes Springing from “Bible & Blue Zones” Class
Rev Fit & Rev Well Walk
The 4-week Bible & Blue Zones class led by Pastor Chamie concludes February 6. The class has been exploring the intersection of faith and scripture with nine key attributes of people living long and healthy lives. These attributes include things like going to worship, having purpose, managing stress, eating lots of fresh foods, and moving your body every day. As part of Bible & Blue Zones, church member Dianne Beck shared about the exercise ministry certificate she earned right prior to Covid. Now she hopes to provide the following classes and is looking for input for the best days and times:
What is a Rev Fit Class?
Rev Fit classes are foundationally based upon God’s word, always beginning with a God-centered intention and Bible passage, followed by a warm-up, movement that involves cardio, strength, and flexibility, and then ending with a longer cool-down time that includes guided prayer and meditation on the beginning intention and Bible passage. The classes are designed for all fitness levels, showing modifications for different levels. Class times range from approximately 40 – 60 minutes.
What is a Rev Well Walk?
Similar to the Rev Fit class, each walk begins with a God-centered intention and Bible reading, then some questions to contemplate or talk about with a friend during the walk. The walk ends with a cool down stretch and prayer.
Location:
Rev Fit – Ascension Lutheran Church (Room to be announced)
Rev Walk – a local park, probably Conejo Creek by the Thousand Oaks Library
Instructor: Dianne Beck (Certified Revelation Wellness Fitness Instructor)
Email me anytime with questions or feedback: beckdianne713@gmail.com
What days/times work best for you? Complete This Survey: CLICK HERE.
One Ascension Hiking Ministry – March Hikes
(No hikes are scheduled for February)
Saturday, March 8, Power Hike, 8:00 AM, Los Padres Trail, Thousand Oaks
Led by Julie Herder, Yvonne Zoetewey, & Pastor Chamie
For those age 16+ who are regular hikers… or who exercise and want to be hikers
We will gather at the parking lot where Moorpark Road dead ends south of the 101. Then together we will do the 4-mile Los Padres loop. This is a moderate hike. There is some elevation gain and loss. Part of the path is narrow and part of it is wide. Make sure to wear sturdy shoes and bring a water bottle.
Thursday, March 13, Full Moon Hike, 6:30 PM, California Lutheran University
Led by Pastor Chamie & Dr. Charlotte Miranda
For the entire family… children, youth, young adults, and/or older adults – the hike is short (up to the cross at California Lutheran University), but please note that it is steep near the cross and not stroller or wheel friendly
Gather at 6:30 PM at the end of Mount Clef Road past the CLU swimming pool & sports fields (there is street parking along Mount Clef as well as side streets off of Mount Clef). We will hike up to the cross together to watch the sun set and the moon rise. The moon is scheduled to rise at 6:58 PM.
We will do a song, scripture reading, devotion, and prayer at the cross. Then we will hike down. The whole excursion will take approximately an hour. Please note that it is a wide, dirt trail and the final ascent is steep. Parents must keep an eye on their children. Bring a flashlight for the way down. We love full moon hiking – it’s quite magical!
Word & Wine: Gathering for February is Wednesday, February 26, 7-8:30 PM
Women of all ages are invited to join us for our SECOND “Word & Wine” on Wednesday, February 26, 7:00 to 8:30 PM, at the home of Ascension Church member Lisa Burns.
We ask you to RSVP so that we can properly prepare.
Pastor Chamie will lead a conversation/activity on “The Circle of Women.” Learn about a “circle of women” in the Bible as well as how we might find welcome and strength and friendship in the circle of women who call Ascension “their place.”
Come as you are as we spend time together and share over a glass of wine or sparkling non-alcoholic cider or a cup of tea.
For more information, contact Pastor Chamie at or call the church office at (805) 495-0406. Sign up HERE.
Game Day & Valentine’s Day The Fair Trade Way!
February — few in days but big in opportunities to gather with family and friends! Fair Trade Lane is stocked and ready to help you “Fair Trade” your celebrations. There’s Red Barn Family Farms Fair Trade cheese (Weis & award-winning Cupola), olive oil & spices from Galilee, “Love Buzz” & “Mind, Body, Soul” and special Fair Trade chocolate treats. Of course, we’ll have Valentine stickers for you to decorate your Fair Trade favorites and make them into fun Valentine gifts.
Fair Trade Lane will be open Sunday, February 9 (8:30-9 AM & 10-10:30 AM) and Thursday, February 13 (2:30-4 PM). If you can’t make it, send a note to use at , and we’ll be in touch about getting your Fair Trade favorites to you.
Congratulations!
We’re so happy for this acknowledgment of Ascension member and former Council President Robert Haar.
From Conejo Valley Unified School District:
For more than three decades Robert Haar has had a steadfast devotion to the students of the CVUSD. As a Social Science teacher and the Chair of the Social Science Department for Thousand Oaks High, Mr. Haar goes above and beyond to ensure all students are college and/or career ready when they graduate from high school. We and the Greater Conejo Valley Chamber of Commerce are proud to recognize Mr. Haar as the CVUSD’s January 2025 Teacher of the Month!
Library update!
Our Bethlehem Room library (directly behind the church offices) has been changed this week, with books organized by subject, and on the honor system for check out and return. We will get Pastor Paul’s new book in there as well. His new book is also available for sale in the church office for $17.
As you see, some of the subjects of the Bethlehem Room books include –
Prayer and Spirituality, Bible Study Books, Small Group Ministry, Evangelism, Martin Luther and Theology, Worship and Music, Children, Youth, and Family, Counseling and Care, Discipleship, Lutheran Authors (we’ll have Pastor Paul’s book there!), Church History, Stewardship and Generosity, Peace, Justice, and Creation Care.
(Books on grief are in the Sonrise Room where our GriefShare group meets each Thursday at 1:00pm.)
There are also photos of our main library (off the west narthex patio) where our adult education class meets each Sunday at 10:30am and our school uses each weekday.
Special thanks to Dolores Ledbetter and Dan Lareva, as well as our wonderful school staff, for taking such good care of our library.
Come and use our amazing library for all ages!
The word “disciple” means learner or follower! We are lifelong learners as disciples of Jesus.
“For whatever was written in former days was written for our instruction, so that by steadfastness and by the encouragement of the scriptures we might have hope. May the God of steadfastness and encouragement grant you to live in harmony with one another, in accordance with Christ Jesus, so that together you may with one voice glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.”
Romans 15:4-6
Wednesday Work Blessings
This week Pastors Steve, Tim, and Chamie visited two places located in the Water Court Complex in Westlake Village. First they visited The Mark & Jacob Foster Care Ministry.
Mark and Jacob were students at Ascension Lutheran School before they were killed by a reckless driver in September of 2020. Their parents began the foster care ministry in their memory, striving to bring light out of the tragedy. Today we got to pray with Nancy Iskander and her employee Stephanie. We prayed for more hearts to be open to becoming foster parents.
Next we visited Woodward Tax Services several doors down from the foster agency. Anna Woodward is a tax agent and longtime church member with her husband Bob. They have both served our church in a number of different ways. Currently Anna serves on our Ascension School Board where she gives the monthly financial reports and also is the school board representative that goes to our monthly church council meetings. Anna and Bob’s children, now adults, were confirmed in the church and also attended the school. We are thankful to God for gifting Anna with the ability to analyze numbers.
If you would like the pastors to visit your place of work on a Wednesday, please contact Carolyn in the church office at (805) 495-0406 for scheduling.
In Case You Missed It…
In Need of Prayer
Click here for this week’s Prayer List
Pericopes
This Week
Isaiah 6:1-8, 9-13
Luke 5:1-11
Next Week
Jeremiah 17:5-10
Psalm 1
Luke 6:17-26
Our Prayer
We pray that you may once again meet the Risen Christ through the Word and Sacrament ministry, and through the fellowship of this family of faith.
If you do not have a church home, we would like to invite you to worship with our Ascension family again.
All people who are baptized and believe in Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior are welcome to receive the Sacrament of Holy Communion.
May God bless you in your worship!
Pastors Tim Delkeskamp, Chamie Delkeskamp, and Steve Herder