SMALL GROUPS: Are you looking for a Bible Study outside of Sunday morning to further your growth in the knowledge of our Lord and Savior? There are a number of small group Bible Studies to consider joining. Take a look at the Maple Campus or Tyler Campus Events pages for more information.

MOM's RECHARGED HERE: Are you a mom that could use a boost now and then? Something a little more lasting than your morning cup of coffee? Consider joining us for Mom’s Bible Study! We are a group of about 20 moms who meet twice a month (1st and 3rd Thursdays) during the school year. We learn together, pray together, and encourage each other in the adventure of motherhood. Childcare is provided by loving grandmas, with a separate track for pre-school aged children. All moms are welcome, no matter what your children’s ages! If you would like more information, contact Beth Ortstadt by e- mail at ortstadt@fgn.net

LAY MINISTRY: In some congregations, Lay Ministers are called "Deacons" or "Elders", but by any name, they serve to minister to your needs. Since Ascension is a large congregation, Lay Ministers assist the pastors in caring for the needs of the members. The congregation is divided in 24 "sectors", with each sector containing about 30 families. One Lay Minister provides for each sector. Your Lay Minister is here to assist you in your spiritual walk with God. He prays for you regularly. He will try to contact you a couple times per year, just to touch base and see if you have any prayer requests. Please feel free to contact your Lay Minister with any spiritual or worship concerns.

MUSIC MINISTRY: Ascension has a strong, multi-faceted music ministry. The Sanctuary Choir is an adult choir that participates in three or four worship services per month. The choir also leads the Advent/Christmas Choral Service and special music during Holy Week. As part of our G-Force midweek program, children participate in a choir of their age group (1st & 2nd, 3rd - 5th, or 6th - 8th grades). G-Force and Sunday School children combine to present the Children's Christmas Worship Musical each December. All children ages 3 and up are invited to participate. Drama and handbells are also a part of G-Force Worship Skills. There are presently two adult Handbell Choirs. These groups participate regularly in our worship services. Special activities, concerts, and musical guests are also part of Ascension's music ministry. There are also additional opportunities to be involved in small vocal groups, solos, duets, and other special ensembles. Instrumentalists have opportunities to share their gifts, also. Our Brass Ensemble participates in several services per year and is open to brass players of all ages. Instrumentalists are encouraged to provide solos, small ensembles, accompaniments for our choir, and to join together as an orchestra whenever possible.

LWML: The Lutheran Women's Missionary League invites you to join them for their quarterly events, monthly service projects, and yearly national gatherings. Contact the church office or by e-mail.

STEPHEN MINISTRY: It's about knowing what to do. Our STEPHEN MINISTERS know all about receiving care. Many of them have been on the receiving end of care at an earlier point in their lives - something that has motivated them to give care now. They know how difficult it is to ask for help, but they also know the great personal and spiritual growth and healing that follows. They know how to respond in a loving, caring, and nonjudgmental manner. They are equipped, ready, and waiting to provide the comfort and care God very much desires you to have.