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.
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.
Scott Thomsen and family, on the death of his mother, Marilyn Thomsen
PRAYERS OF HEALING FOR:
Kathy Andera
Mari Baer, former teacher at our school, as she deals with a difficult cancer diagnosis
Karin Breedlove, in ICU on a ventilator with double penumonia, for full recovery
Dean Chandler, for clear, useful test results and full healing
Kay Dawson
Marvelee, who suffered a heart attack
Victor Murillo
Jim Overton’s sister, Becky France, for easing of breathing problems associated with Parkinson’s Disease
Todd Miller, for healing
Muriel
David Palma-Ruwe, who was in the ER earlier this week with chest pains, for guidance for his cardiologist, effective treatment, and full healing
Dee Ruwe
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 children who are in the hospital, and those who are in need of hospitalization and can’t get it
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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.
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.
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 4th through 6th 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 (4th through 6th 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!
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.
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
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 .
Called to create opportunities for all people to become devoted followers of Christ
April 27, 2025
Grace and peace to you my sisters and brothers in Christ,
This weekend it’s all about old “Doubting Thomas.” But it isn’t really. Let me just dispel that myth right now. It wasn’t just Thomas that needed to touch Jesus’s wounds for reassurance, it was all the disciples. Thomas just missed Jesus’ first appearance. So, maybe instead of calling him “Doubting Thomas” maybe we should call him “FOMO (fear of missing out) Thomas.”
Either way, what we should not miss in the story is that this is an “equipping” story. At this point in the gospel, the resurrection has happened and it’s time for the disciples (students) to become apostles (sent-out ones) and so Jesus gives them everything that they need to go out and be the proof of the resurrection to those who didn’t witness it first-hand. It is a story about beauty and proclamation. And I am excited (along with a special guest) to help tell a powerful “living the resurrection” story this weekend. Be the beauty, be the blessing.
Excited to see you in church this weekend!
Blessings,
Easter Season 2025 Sermon Series
From locked rooms to lakeshores, from fearful silence to Spirit-filled witness, the Risen Jesus keeps showing up—bringing peace, calling disciples by name, healing, feeding, loving, and sending. In this Easter-to-Pentecost journey, we follow the Gospel stories of Jesus’ post-resurrection appearances and final teachings. Each week offers an invitation: to awaken to his presence, be changed by his love, and step into the Spirit-empowered life of faith.
Click here for preview/downloadable schedule
Easter 25 9 (19)
Easter 25 9 (18)
Easter 25 9 (11)
Easter 25 9 (6)
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Easter 25 9 (1)
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Easter At Ascension
What a memorable Easter!
Thank you to all our volunteers – teenagers, moms and dads, grownups and kids of all ages. Thanks to the volunteer cooks and cleaners, our extraordinarily talented music makers, our planners and printers and amazing maintenance team. Thanks to the Easter Bunny Crew — Avery, Delaney, Eli, Ella, Ian, James, Jude, Paige, Trevor, Tyler, and fearless leader Jenni Klemp. Photos from Jenni Klemp, Jeff Hengst, Pastor Chamie, Pastor Steve and Tech Team.
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.
Outreach Sunday
The number one reason people come to a church is because of an invitation.
The number one reason people continue to come to a church is friendship.
One of the most important parts of being a Christian is fulfilling the Great Commission to make disciples or bringing people to a life with Christ.
One of the best ways to live out a Christian life is being in a community like the church.
On June 1 we will make it easier to accomplish all of this. On June 1we will have an Outreach Sunday where are asking everyone to invite at least one person to church. Our services and after our services will be focused on our guest. This will be a great church wide opportunity to reach out to someone during a Sunday that will be extra welcoming and appealing to someone who may not go to church, or for someone who is unsure of this God and church thing.
Your invitation may be the only opportunity for someone to know and experience a faith filled life.
Pray and ask God to guide you to invite that one person or multiple people to church on June 1!
Filling Bags with Good Things to Eat
Hi Ascension members and friends.For my Kingdom Builders Project, I will be making meal bags for our food pantry.My goal is to provide a complete meal for a family of 4.I would like to create both breakfast and dinner meal bags.Each bag will have the necessary food needed for a completed meal.If you are interested in helping, any food donation would be greatly appreciated. Here is a list of food I am looking for:
Pancake Mix
Syrup
Cereal (hot and cold)
Almond milk, shelf stable milk
Pasta and pasta sauce
Canned meats ex., tuna, chicken, stew, chili
Canned veggies
Canned fruit
Muffin mixes
Rice
Instant potatoes
Granola bars
Donations may be dropped off on Saturday night May 10 or Sunday morning May 11 in Founders Hall kitchen.I will have a container marked for the donations.Thank you in advance for helping to make a difference in someone’s life.If you should have any questions, please call Debbie Kirsch at (805) 341-4622.
Adult Ed for May 4:
A Peek Behind the Kingdom Builders Curtain
What happens when you give someone $100, ask them to consult with the Holy Spirit on how to spend it, and then invite them to take that cash out into the world and make a difference?
Bring your coffee and donuts and find out at our May 4 Adult Ed class starting at 10:30 a.m. in the Library, where we’ll talk about One Ascension’s new Kingdom Builders endeavor.
Members of the Kingdom Builders Team will lead a discussion with details about this innovative endeavor, providing a peek behind the curtain of what it means to be a Kingdom Builder, how the program was developed, and some of the successes we’re already seeing from those $100 investments.
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EARTH DAY FAIR FUN
Ascension Fair Traders had fun at the CLU Earth Day Fair. We thank the Center for Global Engagement for inviting us to join them again this year!
(Pictured) Carol Bjelland and Lisa Burns at the Fair Trade Lane booth. Carol, Lisa and Dr. Christina Sanchez, Associate Provost for Global Engagement at CLU.
Acorns are edible – and tasty! The chicken’s name is Gumby, like the nickname of CLU’s campus landmark sculpture.
Your Deadline is HERE! FRIDAY!
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.
Deadline To Submit:Friday April 25, 2025
Award Date: May 16, 2025
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.
Sign Up & Support Now!
Pickleball-athon is Just Around the Corner
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/).
Our Hot Meals Ministry team, led by Tania and Barry Disselhorst, putting their T.L.C. into Holy Week meals. Thank you to this team!
We appreciate Pastor Ken’s meal prayer that is printed and attached to each food container.
On a High Note
Margaret Ricci shows again, with this Easter postlude, why Ascension is truly blessed to have her as our organist. Thank you, Margaret! This organ playing must be heard in person to be fully appreciated.
A SPECIAL EGG STORY
Check out these Western Bluebird eggs captured on the camera in the nesting box on our campus. The first egg was laid on Maundy Thursday. The second egg was laid on Good Friday. The third egg was laid on Holy Saturday. The fourth egg was laid on Easter Sunday. And the fifth egg was laid on Easter Monday. How cool is that?!
Here are a few fun facts about Ascension that are good to know this Earth Day week:
– our campus is certified through the National Wildlife Federation as a sanctuary for butterflies, bees, and birds (apparently the bluebirds got the memo)
– our Ascension Lutheran Early Childhood Center and Ascension Lutheran School are both Nature Explore certified schools
– the school’s lead teacher of the nature program, Dr. Charlotte Miranda, has two masters degrees in Plant & Animal Sciences and a Ph.D. in Zoology
– the planter boxes in the big back parking lot were planted with native seeds from the Theodore Payne Foundation
– we have a garden ministry and a hiking ministry
– the children and youth on our campus – both at the schools and church – planted and tended and sold over 700 tomato plants this year; they also donated a tray of tomato plants to Mesa Farm in Ojai, a place that helps young adults facing homelessness create a new future for themselves
– one of our pastors (Pastor Chamie) has a certificate in horticultural therapy
The planning is already starting for Gifts of Hope, 2025 and we invite you to hear about special global and local ministries that are being considered.
We will have Pastor Carmen Retzlaff from the ELCA and Pastor Lisa Kipp from LWR present via Zoom as they share opportunities for us to discuss.
This is a brainstorming session and we want your participation in planning this significant ministry through Ascension.
Wednesday, May 7 — 4 PM, Bethlehem Room
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!
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).
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.
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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.
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.
Easter – It’s Not Just a Day!
Caring Ones
Book Club Notes
