Dear Ascension,
The weekend of August 9, 2026, was perfect. Your generosity—the notes, gifts, calls, and attendance—meant so much, and Bill and I want to express our deepest thanks.
Beyond that extraordinary weekend, we are grateful for the privilege of serving the Church through our time at Church of the Ascension. Your support, prayers, and gifts have been the center of everything I have done for the past 40+ years.
The painting by David Braly is a treasure that I still cannot fully comprehend. It will be the heart of my memories and a symbol of the freedom I felt in worship and music here. Ascension’s support of our music and ministry has reached far beyond our parish—from my time at Tutwiler Prison to the Choir’s residency at Salisbury Cathedral. We will never fully know all the lives touched by the music of this church.
While I cannot name everyone without risking leaving someone out, I must specifically thank:
– Candice for the Hildegard sermon and all of the music that we got to offer ;
– Richard Norris for his collaboration with David Braly and his moving words;
– Virginia Humphrey and the Altar Guild for the reception and the piano cake;
– Jan Davis, Nan Hobbs, the Staff. and everyone who made Sunday morning, the Choir dinner, and the Ascension Hall party possible.
If you served in any way that weekend, please know I thank you from the bottom of my heart.
I am so excited about Joel Gregory’s work. He is a wonderful musician and already a vital part of our music program. Please continue to support him and Music at Ascension with your prayers, gifts, and presence. I hope to be among you again soon.
I also want to publicly thank The Ascension Choir for their commitment, talent, and love, as well as their families for the support and sacrifice that make this music possible. If you love to sing, please consider joining them!
The reason that I originally came to Ascension was for the children. Thank you to every parent and friend that has given the children this opportunity for service, growth, and learning. I wish every Ascension child could be part of the choir programs.
Our cups run over. We pray that the love planted in your hearts at Ascension grows in abundance and mercy so the world will know that the Kingdom is at hand!
With love,
Becky