Join us this spring and summer as we live in the resurrection hope of Jesus!

“Open up your lives. Live openly and expansively!”

2 Corinthians 6:13 (MSG Translation)

Weekly Worship

Weekly worship is a way to ground ourselves in God and community. Our weekly worship services are at 6:00 PM Saturdays and 9:00 and 10:30 AM on Sundays – through the year, including summertime.

Pentecost is our next big church holiday – and it’s going to be a great one!

On Sunday, June 8, 10:00 AM we will have one worship service (instead of three weekend services) and all of our musical groups will be a part of the worship. Then after the worship service, we will be having an amazing international fair with food and festivities in the outdoor playground and gathering area. Pentecost was the day that all people, from wide and far, came together, understanding each other in their own languages, and the Christian church was born. If you would like to be on the Pentecost planning team – or if you would like to host a pop up with decor, information, and food from your country of origin, contact Chairperson, Michael Adinew or Pastor Chamie at .

Praying & Caring

We are a people who pray everyday, using our “365 in 25” calendar. Follow our daily prayer calendar: alcto.org/365in25. Look for special prayer events and retreats. Contact Pastor Steve for more information.

Ministries for Adults

Check out some of our ministries for adults in their 20’s, 30’s, 40’s, 50’s, 60’s, and beyond:

Bibles and Brew for men, typically meeting the first Wednesday of the month. Contact Pastor Tim for more information.
Word and Wine for women, typically meeting the 4th Wednesday of the month at 7:00 PM – upcoming dates include Apr 30 and May 28. Contact Pastor Chamie for more information.
“Lunch Bunch” for seniors started in January and has been fantastic! Lunch Bunch usually meets the second Wednesday of the month thanks to retired Pastor Larry and his wife Chris. Sign up for Lunch Bunch in the church office.
Sunday adult education classes take place at 10:30 AM in the campus library. Contact Pastor Steve for more information at .

Children, Youth, & Families

Sunday school at the 9:00 AM service for 3-year-olds through 6th grade runs through Sunday, June 1. Then in the summer, starting June 15, we will run an awesome 8-week Summer Sunday School (in VBS style) at the 10:30 AM worship. Contact Jenni Klemp at for more information.
We have nursery care for infants through 4-year-olds during both Sunday services (and Sunday school for them during the 10:30 service) as well as a comfort room, children’s bulletins, and kids worship bags.
Parent Class (with program for kids) will run this summer on Wednesday evenings July 9 through August 6. Wednesday nights are going to be great family nights this summer! Parents and guardians can attend the parents’ class led by Pastors Tim & Chamie. Children 4 through 5th grade can attend the Kids’ Night with the children’s ministry director as well as our youth director Jen Avalos (along with youth leaders). Nursery program for 3 and under will also be available.
Youth Leadership Camp! This is going to be an incredible week!!! June 16 through 20, 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM Monday through Thursday with a trip to Six Flags on Friday, Cost $50. Youth going into Grades 7th through 12th are invited to apply to be a part of this amazing week. Youth will be exploring these three questions: Who am I? Where do I fit? What difference do I make? Youth will hear from a variety of leaders. They will be empowered and equipped to be leaders on our One Ascension campus and in our community. Youth Leadership Camp activities include Bible studies, team building, a service project, training to lead summer children’s ministry activities, a trip to California Lutheran University, and on-site and off-site adventures (as we will load the Ascension bus). To apply or for more information, contact Pastor Chamie at .

Middle School & Senior High Youth Ministries Many summer opportunities for 6th through 12th graders are available! Contact Jen Avalos for more information at .

Caring for our Neighbors

Support our food pantry! You can help by picking up a few extra food items every time you shop and donating them to the pantry.
Be a part of our Global Ministries Team or Community Concerns Team. To learn more, contact Pastor Steveat .

Our Schools

We love our schools!

Ascension Lutheran Early Childhood Center: www.alecc.org. Jenny McCoy, Director.
Ascension Lutheran Elementary & Middle School: www.alschool.org. Rich Gregory, Principal. Contact the school to schedule a tour and apply for the 2025-26 school year!

Outdoor Ministries

Our campus – church and school – is certified through the National Wildlife Federation as a sanctuary for bees, birds, and butterflies. Our schools are Nature Explore certified. We believe that we better know our Creator by spending time in creation.

Stay tuned for dates with our hiking ministry. We do monthly family hikes that are kid-friendly. We also do monthly “power hikes” for those who really like to hike and can do 4 to 6 mile moderate hikes.

Other Events

Kingdom Builders. Congregation members were given $100 dollars to go out and build up God’s kingdom. They have come up with amazing ideas! Some events include:
- The “Pickleball-athon” fundraiser for Harbor House and youth ministries – learn more and sign up here: https://alcto.org/pickleball/.
- Support military families on June 14th. To learn more, contact .

Contact Information

Call the church office at (805) 495-0406. Visit the church website at www.alcto.org.

Pastor Tim,
Pastor Chamie,
Pastor Steve,
Jen Avalos, Youth Director,
Jenni Klemp, Interim Children’s Ministry,

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IN NEED OF PRAYER

A name is added to this list only with the permission of the person or the person’s family

If you have requested prayers for someone and their status has changed, please let us know (). We like to keep these lists updated, and we ask your help. Thank you.

Link to printable prayer page

Link to printable prayer pages for Leaders, Staff, and Partners

PRAYERS OF HEALING FOR:

Courtney, who has been given a terminal diagnosis after brain surgery

Barbara Krum

Valierie Krum

We keep these family and friends in our prayers as they have lost their homes in the recent fires. As we learn of ways that we can help them, we’ll pass that on to you. In the meantime, and continually, we will keep them in prayer.

Richard

Shannon, Vince, and Emerson

Amy

Brenda

Vince

Jordan, Eddie, Michelle and her mom

Roxanne and Geoff

The Egge family

The Udko family

PRAYERS FOR SAFEKEEPING:

Scott Clark, U.S. Navy

LCpL. Alexander Daley

Jack Ingles, USMC

Chief Patrick Maccarone, USN

PRAYER FOCUS

For all who are unjustly detained or denied due process, and those striving to help them

CONTINUING PRAYERS FOR:

Barbara Appleton

Pastor Sharon Amundson

Kyle Ayers
Alan Baker

Karen Barrows

Maria Bartush

Marie Baur

Dianne Beck

Gloria Benfatto

Bonnie Braaten

Sue Browning

John Burgert

Danny Cameranesi
Mary Cartrett

Vicki Calle

Christophe

Sara Dahl

Donna Corra

Karen Cirks

Margo Dameron

Kay Dawson
Julie Delvillar

Nicole East

Jackie Flame

Becky France

Martha Glynn

Eric Guetschoff

baby Marigold Halseth

Kim Harvey
Malia Hassenbein
Chuck Heinrich

Jeff Hines

Peggy Hoge’s daughter, Tori
Penny Hunter

Marcia Jones

Sandy Kane

Aaron Keit

Scott Klipp

Eve Konstantine

Dick Krum

Judy Lange

RuthAnn Lawrence

Cam Lorentson

Kirsten Lundring

Beth Lugo

Baby Magnus and family

Judy and Kirk Marshall

Beth Merrill

Lynne Merrill

Jacob Miller

Kathleen Mullen

Eva Nehring

Ruth Neumann

Mike Nichols

Skip Nirenberg

Betty Olson

Tracy Olkowsky’s husband, Ken

Keith, Laurie, and Trey Peyton

Gary Phillips

Patty Raffy
Logan Redmond

Patricia Reimnitz

Baby Noah Rowe

Jerry Ryckman

Neida Sanchez

Debbie Saunier

Mary Schurter

Jennifer Schwabauer
Grace Sica

The Siassi family
Jeff and Jan Specks
Karen Swanson

The Julian Swanson family

Pete and Kris Swavely

Kevin Tam

Dorothy Teufel,

Jan Timmons

Tony Torelli

Susie Turner

Taty Valladares

Todd Wallace

Duane Warner

Jan White

Phyllis Wilker

Lauren Wilson

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Here are Best Practices for Submitting Your Newsletter Stories

1. Observe 2 PM Tuesday deadline for the following Thursday’s release (unless by advance arrangement).

2. DO NOT PRE-FORMAT MATERIAL. A text or Word file and photos or artwork in jpg or png format, along with any notes you’d like to make about presentation, links, etc. are preferred and will work best to get your message across.

More than HALF of our audience read the newsletter on their phones. The difficulty in reading PDFs on mobile devices was a key reason we switched to the new online format. By presenting information in a PDF, you are making it much harder for them to see it.

3. Keep the number of outside links to a maximum of 3. If your material contains more than three links, we cannot guarantee they will all work.

4. DO NOT EMBED LINKS. Links in flyers, png’s and pdf’s will most likely NOT WORK in the newsletter. Supply the URL and a link will be added.

5. Let me know what you’d like. I can do the best job possible tailoring presentation of your article or announcement if I know your desires. Email and I will get back to you. As always, your suggestions and constructive criticism are welcome!

Thank you.

Stacy Smith Bosco,

Communications Coordinator

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Attendance & Offerings

Fiscal Year 2021-2022 Offerings to Date

Through January 16, 2021 (week 29 of 52)

FY2022 Received: $742,596

Budgeted: $749,542

Windfall/(Shortfall): $(6,946)

FY2021 Received: $763,747

Budgeted: $745,480

Windfall/(Shortfall): $18,267

Attendance

All three weekend services

Jan 10 – 16

In Person: 143

Online: 185

Jan 3 – 9

In Person: 155

Online: 185

Dec. 27 – Jan 2

In Person: 120

Online: 168

Dec. 20-26

In Person: 826

Online: 397

Dec. 13-19

In Person: 98

Online: 108

Dec. 6-12

In Person: 254

Online: 194

Dec. 4-5

In Person: 236

Online: 179

Nov. 27-28

In Person: 220

Online: 162

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Sam’s Tram Rolls Again

by Brian Festerling, SAM’s Tram Coordinator

Since the COVID-19 pandemic began, the SAM’s Tram service from Ascension has been pretty quiet. However, now that many of us have vaccines and feel more comfortable being out and about, it’s time to reintroduce the program! SAM’s Tram is Ascension’s Senior Adult Ministries transportation service. We match seniors from our congregation that need rides to local appointments with Ascension volunteers that are willing to drive.

RIDERS

If you’re a senior who needs a ride (or a caregiver for one), please contact me with the ride details. My contact info is at the end of the article. The more lead time you can give me — at least a week or two is best — the more likely I can find a driver for you. I’ll let you know either way. The service is free! If you feel compelled to give something, you can give your driver a dollar to go to Ascension’s Caring Ones to help the needy in our area.

DRIVERS

We’re always looking for more volunteer drivers to add to our roster. There is NO long-term commitment. I blast out detailed ride requests via e-mail to all of our drivers. You need only say “yes” to a ride that works for your schedule, and your only commitment is for that one ride. Many of us work and can only drive occasionally. That’s OK! The more drivers we have on our roster, the more likely we can fulfill a given request, and the workload gets spread around. This is a simple and effective ministry and we’d love to have you join us! Please call or e-mail me if you’re interested.

TESTIMONIAL

“[SAM’s Tram was] a blessing to my mom when she could not drive anymore. The friendly drivers got her to her weekly hair appointments, and occasional other doctor/dentist appointments. The social interaction with the drivers gave her a lift and became a bright spot in her declining life quality. I was pleasantly surprised and pleased when two drivers who were more frequent came to my mom’s celebration of life service. What a dedicated group of people, making a difference in the lives of our elders!” — Excerpt from a thank you note written by the daughter of one of our riders

FAST FACTS

– Pastor Steve started SAM’s Tram in 2011.

– Since 2017 we have had 287 ride requests and fulfilled 220 of them (77%)

– 69% of our requests are for doctor appointments, 9% for worship services, 8% for beauty/barber, and 14% “other”

Please pray for our SAM’s Tram riders and drivers, and contact me anytime if we can be of service to you, or if you you’d like to join us as a driver.

Sincerely,

Brian Festerling SAM’s Tram Coordinator

805-558-8076 (cell)

ps – we’ve had an uptick in requests and could always use new drivers.

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Gifts of Hope 2021 — Virtual Fair Trade Gift Fair

The Virtual Gift Fair debuted last year providing an online opportunity to shop for Fair Trade artisan handcrafts – Fair Trade “wearables & shareables” – from the comfort, convenience and safety of your home. The Gifts of Hope Virtual Gift Fair returns this year bigger & better!

We welcome FAIR ANITA to the Virtual Gift Fair this year providing an opportunity to shop for “cute + ethically-made + affordable” Fair Trade jewelry, textiles and accessories made by more than 8000 changemaking, talented women in 9 countries. These artisan women work to improve the lives of their children and their communities.

The mission of Fair Anita, started in 2015, is to create space for women to feel safe, valued and respected through dignified jobs and Fair Trade relationships. Fair Anita shares that for every dollar a woman makes, between 80-90 cents is reinvested back into her family and community, making sure children are fed and clothed, sending them to school, even putting them through college.

Women’s economic empowerment and leadership is key to overall economic growth and prosperity. More information, including many great photos, will be posted to the Fair Trade page on Ascension’s website. We invite you to check it out and learn more about Fair Anita.

For the months of November and December, 2021, Fair Anita will give Ascension a donation of 20% of online purchases made using Ascension’s special code – our code is ALCTO. Ascension will give this gift to ELCA Lutheran Disaster Response. Mark your calendars and make note of Ascension’s special code. Here is the link to Fair Anita’s website for your shopping enjoyment.

We welcome back our friends at SERRV and are happy they are part of our Virtual Gift Fair again this year.

A name tells us much – established in 1949, the initials stood for Sales Exchange for Refugee Rehabilitation and Vocations. One of the first Fair Trade organizations in the world, SERRV now connects to 24 countries working to empower more than 8000 small-scale artisans and farmers through long-term trading partnerships.

With our support, SERRV can continue to combat poverty and work to help artisans and farmers build better lives for themselves, their families and their communities. Letters spell out more than a name. Every letter has a purpose and stands for an important part of SERRV’s mission. Collectively, the letters SERRV describe the commitment to Fair Trade relationships based on dialogue, transparency, honesty and respect.

The word “Sustainable” is foundational and not limited to the environment. We again thank our friends at SERRV for making a gift of 20% of purchases using Ascension’s special ordering link to ELCA Lutheran Disaster Response.

Here is Ascension’s special ordering link. More information and photos from SERRV will be posted to the Fair Trade page on Ascension’s website. The special ordering link is active and ready for your shopping. We will share updates from SERRV as they come in, including special SERRV promotions. Fair Trade Coffee, Tea, Olive Oil, Snacks and of course, chocolate, is available for purchase during the October 2021 Pre-Ordering Window (10/15/21 – 10/31/21).

The October 2021 Ordering Form can be found on the Fair Trade page of Ascension’s website, on Ascension’s calendar, in hard-copy in the church office, and HERE.

You can also send an email to us at and we’ll send out the ordering form to you.

Just as our Gifts of Hope Alternative Gifts provide hope for a brighter future for many, both near and far, our support of Fair Trade in its many wonderful forms provides hope to artisans, farmers, their families and communities around the world.

We remember that with Fair Trade, farmers and artisans are paid first and paid in full; promotions and the special gifts from SERRV and Fair Anita do not affect the fair wages, prices and treatment for those who produce the items and products we enjoy and give as gifts.

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Meet Emma Janzen (continued)

Emma volunteered at middle school and high school at the Lutheran church she attended in Peoria, Arizona, a suburb of Phoenix. In high school, she worked at a day care center. At Cal Lu, she worked with students via the AmeriCorps fellowship program. And she experienced work in a range of areas of ministry including children’s ministry at a summer program at a Lutheran church in Dana Point.

While her immediate family is in Arizona, Emma does have relatives who live nearby, in the Pasadena area. As far as adjusting to California life, she says she’s loving the weather here “and being so close to the beach is really fun.”

As part of the interview process, Emma says that she and Pastor Julie “had a meeting and talked about the church and all the different goals, and talked about my own spirituality.” Then Emma led some faith-filled fun for 4^th through 6^th graders at the school. And it must have gone well indeed, for now she is jumping into children’s ministry duties at Ascension — already laying plans for Kids in Christ programming (4^th through 6^th grade), Sunday School, and will soon start “putting together the Christmas program.”

Pastor Julie is excited to have someone on board who loves kids and building relationships, has a good sense of children’s ministry, and a deep faith herself. She’ll be an asset! In fact, every reference Pastor Julie called was emphatic that we would be lucky to have Emma on our team, and we shouldn’t let her get away. Emma will be at the elementary school and ECC and in worship—if you see her, welcome her and start getting to know her! And of course, pray for her and our Children’s Ministry, too!

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Pray, Advocate or Take Action this Jubilee Weekend

Jubilee USA needs our help to lift the voices of the faithful in defense of the world’s most vulnerable. Together, we can expand vaccine access across the world, fight climate change and achieve debt relief and increase aid for developing countries for pandemic recovery efforts. We are joining hundreds of faith communities taking action this month through this drive. Everyone can decide how they’d like to participate – from offering a prayer for vaccine distribution or increased aid for developing countries to calling members of Congress, signing a petition, hosting a discussion group or other activities.

As coronavirus wreaks havoc around the globe, we need to make a strong call to bring the world together for a just and equitable recovery. As you are likely aware, Ascension is a Jubilee congregation – and Pastor Steve is Board Co-Chair — and our Southwest California Synod is a Jubilee synod.

Jubilee has been instrumental in the cancellation of more than $130 billion in debt for the world’s poorest countries. These are debts often racked up by malign government actors in these countries but left for innocent citizenry to cope with. Jubilee follows Jesus’ sermon in the Gospel of Luke (Luke 4:14-21) in reading Isaiah 61 and proclaiming the year of the Lord’s favor, the year of — a year of freedom and debts being cancelled.

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IN NEED OF PRAYER

A name is added to this list only with the permission of the person or the person’s family

Link to printable prayer page

PRAYERS OF COMFORT FOR:

Cori Hengst and family

on the death of her grandmother,

Lilia Fortuna

Debbie Schaeffer,

on the death of her father

PRAYERS OF HEALING FOR:

Brandt and Margy Oschner’s grandson Brandt, who is awaiting a heart transplant

Kris and Peter Swavely’s brother-in-law John, hospitalized in Colorado with severe COVID, and for his wife Lisa, Kris’ sister, who also has COVID

CONTINUING PRAYERS FOR:

Lara Abounayan

Kyle Ayers

Karen Barrows

Maria Bartush

The Bauer Family

Addie Behm

Gloria Benfatto

Debi Bing

Dominick Bosco

Skip Brenner

Mary Cartrett

Dominic Cavaliere

David Corra

Helen Cox

Linda Crabill

Diana Doerfler

John Ernst

Becky and Al France

Jane Ganske

Dennis Gillette

Malia Hassenbein

Penny Hunter

Bob Kielhorn

Dr. Allen Leland

Henry Leland

Grace Lugo

Judy Marshall

Sue May

Sandi Meyer

Shirley Meyer

Verlon Meyer

Bill Munn

Helen Nenne

Paul and Betty Olson

Laurie Peyton

Lois Phillips

Mike Ricci

Dave Rosinbum

Pastor David Palma-Ruwe

Dorothy Scholz

Barb Schornstein

Arnold Schwarz

Jan Timmons

Paul and Anne Urlie

Taty Valladares

Todd Wallace

PRAYERS FOR SAFEKEEPING:

Connor Braaten, USMC

Scott Clark, U.S. Navy

LCpL. Alexander Daley

Cody Davidson, US Army

Tim David, US Army

Jack Ingles, USMC

ET1 Patrick Maccarone, USN

Jake Marshall, USMC

Scott Mochatel, USCG

LCJG Caroline Truesdell, USCG

Prayers For Our Congregations In The ELCA

Southwest CA Synod Presiding Bishop Elizabeth Eaton and staff

Synod Bishop-elect Brenda Bos

Our Channel Islands Conference:

New Hope, Agoura Hills

Mt. Cross, Camarillo

Christ, Goleta

King of Glory, Newbury Park

Holy Cross, Ojai

Lutheran Church of Our Redeemer, Oxnard

Our Savior’s, Oxnard

Trinity, Santa Barbara

Emanuel, Santa Paula

Shepherd of the Valley, Simi Valley

Holy Trinity, Thousand Oaks

Trinity, Ventura

(To learn more, ask one of the pastors)

PRAYER FOCUS:

The work of Jubilee,

that God guides and blesses the efforts toward equitable treatment and relief from debt, famine and disease, especially COVID, for the world’s most vulnerable populations

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Blessing Of The Pets 2021

Thanks to Pastor Steve for the photos!

2022-10-09 11.33.03 (1)

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Attendance & Offerings

Fiscal Year 2021-2022 Offerings to Date

Through October 3, 2021 (week 14 of 52)

FY2022 Received: $292,109

Budgeted: $328,819

Windfall/(Shortfall): $(36,710)

FY2021 Received: $288,878

Budgeted: $329,075

Windfall/(Shortfall): $(40,197)

Attendance

All three weekend services

Sept.27 – Oct.3

In Person: 195

Online: 159

Sept.20 – Sept.26

In Person: 167

Online: 175

Sept.13 – Sept.19

In Person: 202

Online: 176

Sept.6 – Sept.12

In Person: 310

Online: 128

August 30 – Sept. 5

In Person: 168

Online: 180

August 23-29

In Person: 190

Online: 212

August 16-22

In Person: 188

Online: 220

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Packing School Kits For Lutheran World Relief

barnyard

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SLL 1

A recap of the Youth Gathering

High School Youth Group Enjoys Farm Fun, Service, Sunsets, Mountain Tops, and mostly, Lots of Laughter and God’s Hand in it All.

by Dianne Beck

“Sometimes the best way to see God is by looking backwards.”

This was something a speaker at the recent Youth Gathering at Luther Glen said on our last day of camp, and as I look back on our week, I definitely see the hand of God in everything we did.

At Bible Study this past Sunday, as we shared Highs and Lows, each youth who went on the trip, along with myself, listed our trip as a high for the week, recounting the fun times, and admitted that one low was simply the adjustment of coming back home, even though we were all glad to be home and get some rest! I know that in my mind I’ve continued to hear our jokes, sometimes even saying them out loud when no one near me would get it, and have songs like “One Name Under Heaven,” “Reckless Love,” and “Knee, Knee, Clap, Clap” on repeat in my head as well. The week is one that will stay embedded positively in our memories and continue to bring us joy as we think back on it.

Each day was packed with activity and opportunities to connect with each other as well as people from all over California and places as far as North Dakota, Minnesota, Washington, and Hawaii. In this one week, we were able to enjoy farm animals and a new puppy, beautiful sunrises and sunsets, great praise music and speakers, games and conversation, Disneyland, The Palm Springs Tramway, a service day at Helping Hands in San Bernadino, and the local fun of Oak Glen with apple turnovers and axe throwing.
Looking back, I think I saw God most in the way we all connected and got to know one another more and more each day. It’s not easy to hide behind your real self when spending a week together, which I believe is the beauty of going away together. We all see that it’s okay to be who we are and when we are, that’s when God and his love best shine through.

I am truly thankful for every person who went on the trip, every person we met, both near and far, and all the lasting connections and memories made.

If you or a high schooler you know would like to be part of another trip, stay tuned for our plans for an upcoming weekend retreat to Pismo Beach September 23-25th. If interested, contact Dianne Beck at .

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Worship:

Saturday 6 PM

Sunday 7, 9 and 11 AM

This Week At Ascension

Called to create opportunities for all people to become devoted followers of Christ

Easter Sunday

April 20, 2025

Easter Blessings 2025

Grace and peace to you my sisters and brothers in Christ,

He is Risen! He is risen indeed!

Come join us this weekend for Easter worship. You have the option of four worship services: Saturday at 6pm, Sunrise on Sunday at 7am in the Garden, 9am and our contemporary service at 11am.

It’s going to be awesome. Get breakfast in Pederson Hall, join the egg hunt. Invite friends. In other words, let’s celebrate the best thing that has ever happened!

You have probably heard the story before but this year, Pastor Chamie and I want to make sure that you know the whole story. The history. We want to make sure that you know that the grace God gives you through your faith is more than enough of what you need for your life.

It’s all been prepared. The details have been attended to. I am so excited to see you in worship this weekend!

Blessings,

Holy Week

Maundy Thursday, April 17, “Walking with the Servant,” The Last Supper — 7 PM With Carillons Bell Choir.

Good Friday, April 18, “Walking in the Dark,” The 7 Last Words of Christ — 11:15 AM School Chapel; 7 PM With Chancel Choir.

Holy Saturday, April 19, 6 PM “From Weeping to Rejoicing.” On this Holy Saturday, we will remember that darkness is never the last word. Light wins. The service will begin in the sanctuary and then we will move out to the garden area to close in a song and prayer.

Easter Schedule

At 7 AM, Pastor Chamie (and the youth) will deliver an Easter message titled “Every Sunrise” and explore the new life we get to experience every morning because of the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus.

At 9 AM, Pastors Tim and Chamie will deliver the Easter message; music with Chancel Choir.

At 11 AM, Pastors Tim and Chamie will deliver the Easter message; music with Praise Alive band.

Holy Communion served at all Easter services.

Child care provided at 9 and 11 AM services.

Easter Egg Hunt for children at 10:30 AM.

Easter Breakfast served 8-11 AM by Ascension youth.

You’re invited!

We would love for you, your friends, and family to join us for this special event.

This Easter, we rejoice in the miracle of resurrection and the promise of new beginnings.

Ascension Foundation

CLICK HERE

Easter Sunday for Children, Youth, and Family Ministries

Sunday, April 20, opportunities from 7:00 AM to Noon

Youth will help lead the sunrise worship service at 7:00 AM (this counts as worship leadership for confirmands); you can sign up here to help at the Sunrise Service.

Easter breakfast (monies made go to support youth with their summer trips and camps). To sign up to help with the breakfast, go here.

Adult Education – Sunday, April 27, 10:30 to 11:30 AM

Easter – It’s Not Just a Day!

Lots of people think that Easter is just one day, but on Christian calendars, Easter is a 50-day season ending with Pentecost. What does one do for those 50 days?

Pastor Chamie will teach on the history of the season as well as share ways that we, as followers of Jesus, might “live the resurrection.” Several books and resources will be available for perusal or for you to take with you after class.

Join us this spring and summer as we live in the resurrection hope of Jesus!

“Open up your lives. Live openly and expansively!”

2 Corinthians 6:13 (MSG Translation)

Click here for a preview of great things ahead at Ascension this spring and summer!

Youth Leadership Camp

June 16th – 20th, 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM

Monday through Thursday with a trip to Six Flags on Friday

Cost $50

Youth going into Grades 7th through 12th are invited to apply to be a part of this incredible week. Youth will be exploring these three questions:

Who am I?
Where do I fit?
What difference do I make?

Youth will hear from a variety of leaders. They will be empowered and equipped to be leaders on our One Ascension and in our community. Youth Leadership Camp activities include Bible studies, team building, a service project, training to lead summer children’s ministry activities, a trip to California Lutheran University, and on-site and off-site adventures (as we will load the Ascension bus).

To apply or for more information, contact Pastor Chamie at .

Happy Campers: Summer Sunday School

Join us for a special 8 weeks of Summer Sunday School during the 10:30 AM worship service. It is going to be an awesome camping adventure as we gather children ages 4 through 5th grade together in the gym and/or playground (nursery care “Happy Campers” program provided for those 3 and under).

Here is an overview of each week:

Catching Some Fish. Nothing passes the time quite like going out and catching fish. Kids will learn that we’ve been called to make sure people catch the good news of Jesus. Luke 5:1-11.

Putting Up the Tent. We must pay careful attention to pitch our tents just right. Kids will learn that Jesus deserves our attention. Mark 9:2-13.

Setting Out Your Sleeping Bag. When you’re “roughing it” you have to give up your warm house and comfortable bed. Kids will learn that following Jesus sometimes means giving something up. Matthew 8:18-22.

Going on a Hike. During your trip, it’s nice to go out to the hiking trails and explore nature. Kids will learn that Jesus sends us out to help and serve others. Luke 10:1-17.

Making S’mores. No camping trip would be complete without fixing up s’mores. Kids will learn that Jesus is the bread of life that makes us complete. John 6:25-40.

Singing Campfire Songs. Nothing’s more joyful than singing songs under the stars. Kids will learn that they should praise Jesus joyfully. Luke 19:28-40.

Telling Campfire Stories. It’s nice to sit around the campfire and tell each other stories. Kids will learn that we have the best story ever to tell: Jesus is alive! Luke 24:13-32.

Keeping the Fire Going. When the camping trip is over, make sure to put out the campfire out. Kids will learn that with the promised Holy Spirit, the fire of good news will never go out. Acts 2:1-12.

lent 2025 12

A SPECIAL SEASON

We are grateful to have had our soup suppers back this Lenten season. Many thanks to coordinator Shannon Lomeli and all the volunteers who made this happen. What a memorable time of fellowship and faith!

Join in Tying Quilts

Quilt tying is April 22, 9 – Noon in Founders Hall – all are welcome. Contact Anita Cohen if you would like more information:

Thank you!

Evangelical Lutheran Church in America Impact Report: God’s Global Barnyard

Prepared February 2025 for: Ascension Lutheran Church

Ascension Lutheran Church, thank you for your generous support of the ministries of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.

By giving $ 14,666 to ELCA World Hunger through your Gifts of Hope campaign, you are reaching vulnerable communities in need and providing them with God’s hope and tangible, life-saving resources.

CLICK HERE to read stories of impact made possible by your generosity. Your participation in the faithful work of the church is inspiring. Thank you.

Conejo Free Clinic

Our monthly benevolence for April.

Click HERE for more information.

Caring Ones

In each worship service, besides our tithes and offerings, we have a unique offering at Ascension called “Caring Ones.” These are all loose (not in an envelope) one-dollar bills that are given for the sole purpose of helping people who are unemployed, underemployed or homeless. These small gifts given with great love bless many people in need because so many people at Ascension worship God in this way.

You can now apply through Ascension Lutheran Foundation for college and seminary scholarships created by Legacy donors. These scholarships are for the academic year starting next Fall. Letters of Recommendation must be included with your submission.

Please click HERE for all the details and forms. You may also stop by the office for a paper copy of the application.

Dates To Remember:
Deadline To Submit: April 25, 2025
Award Date: May 16, 2025

No Snags!

The printed reports for our most recent audit have arrived, and are available for review by our members at the church office during normal office hours.

Your blood donation is vitally important! Here is a press release about a new program from the Ventura County Fire Department. Blood will be used on ambulances in Ventura County for trauma victims.

Vitalant says, “Your blood drive is helping even more.”

VCFD Announces Emergency Blood Transfusion Program

Ventura County, CA – The Ventura County Fire Department (VCFD) has taken a pioneering step in emergency medical care by becoming one of the first fire departments in California to launch an emergency blood transfusion program. This new initiative marks a significant advancement in prehospital emergency care, potentially saving the lives of trauma patients who suffer from severe blood loss before they can reach a hospital.

Based on case frequency estimates and an analysis of incidents from July 2017 to July 2024, it is projected that 3–7 trauma patients per month could have benefited from prehospital blood transfusions. VCFD aims to stabilize critically injured patients and improve survival rates during the crucial moments following a traumatic incident by equipping first responders with the capability to administer whole blood in the field.

April Word & Wine for Women

Wednesday, April 30, 7:00 to 8:30 PM, at the home of Ascension Church member Lisa Burns

Whether it’s your first time or repeat time at Word & Wine, all women from our One Ascension Community – as well as outside friends – are welcome. We ask you to RSVP so that we can properly prepare.

As we will be meeting just a week and a half after Easter Sunday, the topic of the night will be the power of the women’s voices at the tomb of Jesus. How might we continue to use our voices today to spread good news?

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. To sign up, go HERE (after you sign up, you will receive directions with a reminder of the event).

FACEBOOK ADVISORY:

Due to changes at Facebook, our Livestream links will now be active for 30 days only. The Platform also advises that livestream video from before February of this year will be taken down May 22.

Summer Camp Luther Glen Rebound II

Attention High Schoolers (Grades 9-12)!

Are you an 8th grader who just graduated and ready to dive into high school life?

Or a 9th-12th grader looking for an unforgettable summer experience?

Then Rebound II Summer Camp at Luther Glen is calling your name!

Mark your calendars—July 20th-25th, 2025! We’re heading to an amazing camp for a week full of adventure, fun, and faith!

Here’s what you can expect:

✨ Epic Worship & Inspirational Scripture
✨ Outdoor Adventures – Explore God’s beautiful creation
✨ Adorable Farm Animals – Get ready to meet some fuzzy friends
✨ New Friendships – Hang out with high schoolers from other churches
✨ Tons of Fun Activities – Games, challenges, and surprises!
✨ Meals Provided – All meals are included (except for Disneyland meals , so bring a little extra for that!).

💸 Cost: $630 per student. This covers everything for the week, including meals, activities, and lodging— and Disneyland!

🌟 Can I bring friends? YES! The more, the merrier! Invite your friends to make this week even more unforgettable!

🌟 Ready to sign up? Don’t wait! Registration is open NOW, but hurry—the deadline is June 16th!

To get started, contact Youth Director Jennifer Avalos () for all the details and next steps. Let’s make this summer one for the books!

Can’t wait to see you there!

SAVE THE DATES!

Pickleball-athon Coming to Ascension

Get ready for some pickleball fun in May! There will be exhibition games and an opportunity to try pickleball on May 3 and 4, and then on Saturday, May 10, from 9 AM to noon, a Community Fund-Raising event benefiting Ascension youth and Harbor House.

Why Pickleball?

An engaging and fun sport for all age groups.
Refreshments Provided at all events.
Promote Healthy Living.
Deepen our One Ascension Connections
Fellowship and Meet New People
Support our growing Youth Program – (75% of proceeds will help with Youth Summer Camp and other expenses).
Support our local Thousand Oaks Community – (25% of Proceeds will be donated to Harbor House (https://www.harborhouseto.org/)).

How to Participate?

Pledge by the point, by the game, or lump sum donation.
Sponsorship opportunities online at alcto.org or after worship services.
Be a FAN! Come to cheer on the Registered Players.

While raising funds to support our Ascension Youth and Harbor House is an important secondary goal, the Primary Goal is to BUILD COMMUNITY.

More participation means greater success in building God’s Kingdom. We invite you to be a part of this opportunity!

Need more information? Please contact:

Tom Lindros – Kingdom Builder –
Jen Avalos – Ascension Youth Director –
Ascension Kingdom Builders Team –
Ascension Lutheran Church Website
Harbor House

ATTENTION ALC MEMBERS & ACTIVE U.S. MILITARY MEMBERS, FAMILIES & FRIENDS.

The Local Chapter of America Supporting Americans (ASA), that provides US Military Troops with Care Packages around the Globe, will be conducting a Community-Wide Event and fundraiser — with Band, Bagpiper, Military Speakers, light refreshments, plus more — on Saturday, June 14, which is also Flag Day.

The event will last from 10:30 AM – 11:30 AM on the Janss Market Place’s Food Court/Golds Gym area here in Thousand Oaks.

To reserve a Gift of a Flag and to be placed on “the List” to have a Flag in your Honor placed in “Hero’s Park” at the Event, and to take it home following the Event, just Send Local Contact information, the Military Affiliation & Current Military Duty Station in an Email to: “George Lange” at:

Thanks, it’s my way to say THANK YOU FOR YOUR SERVICE VIA ALC & ASA!

Sincerely,

George Lange

US Navy, 1957-1961

NOTE: Look forward to more about this Kingdom Builders project in coming weeks!

Coming June 8!

Mark your calendars for one great worship service followed by a Pentecost celebration!

Sunday, June 8 is Pentecost Sunday – the birthday of the Christian church all around the world. We will have ONE worship service that weekend at 10:00 AM on Sunday which will feature music from the chancel choir, the carillons, the worship band, and Nancy Lee from the Saturday evening service.

Following worship, we will have a “Pentecost Fair” on the playground. This multicultural event will feature pop up tents representing the various countries from which our One Ascension families originate. Learn about these countries, the churches in that area, and taste foods from the featured countries.

Watch for the sign up if you want to host one of the tables. If you would like to be a part of the planning team, contact chairperson Michael Adinew at or Pastor Chamie at .

Book Club Notes

The Ascension Book Club meets the 3rd Thursday of the month at 1:30 in the Bethlehem Room, in the office building. The group chooses books based on members’ interest and discussion is led by one of the members. Books vary from popular novels to nonfiction. Please feel free to join us–we are a friendly group.

April: Symphony of Secrets, by Brendan Slocumb (the One City One Book for Thousand Oaks available at the library)

May: Horse by Geraldine Brooks

June: Good Night, Irene by Luis Alberto Urrea (This is about the “Donut Dollies ” of WW II)

Books should be available at Libby, local library, Amazon or Thriftbooks.

Sunday School Children With Palm Fronds

(A special day!)

Ascension Event Calendar

In Need of Prayer

Click here for this week’s Prayer List

Top of Page

Pericopes

This Week

Acts 10:34-43
Psalm 118:1-2,14-24
1 Corinthians 15:19-26
Luke 24:1-12
John 20:1-18

Next Week

Psalm 118:14-29
Acts 5:27-32
Revelation 1:4-8
John 20:19-31

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

Don’t miss another TWAA

Click HERE to receive a link to every issue!

Join us this spring and summer as we live in the resurrection hope of Jesus!

“Open up your lives. Live openly and expansively!”

2 Corinthians 6:13 (MSG Translation)

IN NEED OF PRAYER

PRAYERS OF HEALING FOR:

We keep these family and friends in our prayers as they have lost their homes in the recent fires. As we learn of ways that we can help them, we’ll pass that on to you. In the meantime, and continually, we will keep them in prayer.

PRAYERS FOR SAFEKEEPING:

PRAYER FOCUS

CONTINUING PRAYERS FOR:

Here are Best Practices for Submitting Your Newsletter Stories

Attendance & Offerings

Fiscal Year 2021-2022 Offerings to Date

Attendance

Sam’s Tram Rolls Again

Gifts of Hope 2021 — Virtual Fair Trade Gift Fair

Meet Emma Janzen (continued)

Pray, Advocate or Take Action this Jubilee Weekend

IN NEED OF PRAYER

PRAYERS OF COMFORT FOR:

PRAYERS OF HEALING FOR:

CONTINUING PRAYERS FOR:

PRAYERS FOR SAFEKEEPING:

Prayers For Our Congregations In The ELCA

PRAYER FOCUS:

Blessing Of The Pets 2021

Attendance & Offerings

Fiscal Year 2021-2022 Offerings to Date

Attendance

Packing School Kits For Lutheran World Relief

A recap of the Youth Gathering

This Week At Ascension

Easter Sunday

Easter Blessings 2025

Grace and peace to you my sisters and brothers in Christ,

Holy Week

Easter Schedule

You’re invited!

We would love for you, your friends, and family to join us for this special event.

Easter Sunday for Children, Youth, and Family Ministries

Adult Education – Sunday, April 27, 10:30 to 11:30 AM

Easter – It’s Not Just a Day!

Join us this spring and summer as we live in the resurrection hope of Jesus!

Youth Leadership Camp

Happy Campers: Summer Sunday School

A SPECIAL SEASON

Join in Tying Quilts

Thank you!

Conejo Free Clinic

Caring Ones

No Snags!

April Word & Wine for Women

FACEBOOK ADVISORY:

Summer Camp Luther Glen Rebound II

SAVE THE DATES!

Pickleball-athon Coming to Ascension

ATTENTION ALC MEMBERS & ACTIVE U.S. MILITARY MEMBERS, FAMILIES & FRIENDS.

Coming June 8!

Book Club Notes

Sunday School Children With Palm Fronds

In Case You Missed It…

Ascension Event Calendar

In Need of Prayer

Pericopes

Our Prayer

Don’t miss another TWAA

Best Practices for Submitting Your Newsletter Stories CLICK HERE