Celebrating Plurality, by the Rev. Abi John, Minister and Rector, Church of the Ascension.
On Sunday, February 22, by the grace of God, the Church of the Ascension joyfully celebrated Asiamerican Ministries under the theme “Celebrating Plurality.” The service reflected the beauty of God’s diverse creation and invited us to recognize the abundance of God’s life for all people.
The Rev. JoAnn Lagman, Missioner for Asiamerican Ministries, preached on the Baptismal Covenant, inspiring and reminding us that it calls us to affirm Christ in all creation beyond narrow boundaries. Her theological hermeneutics on God’s love, redemption, and new life offered hope and seeded faith in the God of Justice. The Rev. Julianne Buenting, Acting Director of Ministry, brought greetings from Bishop Kara Wagner Sherer and encouraged Ascension’s ongoing commitment to inclusive ministry.
The worship was enriched by multilingual and multicultural participation. Youth from diverse communities offered African and Dalit drumming along with Anglican hymns and traditions. Members of the Karen, Tamil, and Congolese communities participated with joy. The Rev. Edwin Way, from the Central Diocese of New York, read the Gospel in Karen, reminding us that God’s Word speaks life, dignity, and hope to all. We had our benediction in Tamil and English, signing double blessings! Yes, the sense of plurality pours abundance blessings. Amen. Acolytes, ushers, and choir felicitated the traditions with openness to the Spirit of God!
Following the service, Rev. JoAnn led a parish conversation over lunch, facilitating a discussion of our mission and vision for Christ and his ministry in the real world. This thoughtful exchange encouraged reflection on our faith journey in today’s socio-economic and political climate and invited us to reimagine the Church’s mission with hope, especially through the voices of our young people and those in a transcranial landscape, with their pathos and hope.
We give thanks to Bishop Kara for her encouragement and support and to all who worked tirelessly to make this celebration meaningful. We are especially grateful to our Vestry, Wardens, and volunteers for their faithful service in organizing this special worship and fellowship. We would like to thank the diocesan Director of Community Engagement, Stephen Richards, for his presence and help.Sincere appreciation to those who prepared Thai, Tamil, Karen, and American dishes for lunch and the Ascension staff.
At Ascension, we continue to affirm that there is a place for all diverse identities to be embraced in God’s transforming love.
In Christ,
Fr. Abi John,
Minister and Rector, Ascension
