Urban Revitalization: Church of the Ascension in Western New York

This story of urban church renewal is submitted by Tori Duncan, Canon for the Development of Mission and Ministry for the Diocese of Western New York.

A Small congregation with a big vision
by Tori Duncan, Canon for the Development of Mission and Ministry

Church of the Ascension. You’ve probably seen this beautiful church building in our diocese on Linwood Avenue… gorgeous architecture and beautiful windows, with grounds carefully and lovingly tended by one of the members of the congregation. You also may or may not know that there are not many people who currently gather for Sunday worship in this space that has been the site of the prayers of many, many people over the decades. This small congregation in a large church building has every outward reason to feel discouraged, but they have a hope, vision and dedication to God that surpasses all understanding!

Over the past several months Church of the Ascension has come to a place of one mind and vision that they are going to “give their all” to become a successful urban church restart. They are committing their energy and their finances to hiring a priest experienced in re-starting churches in downtown locations. We’ve sent the word out coast-to-coast that we have a church in our diocese, brimming with potential, who is of one mind to become a national example of what big urban churches with small congregations can do. They want to spread the Good News, they want to welcome those without church homes, they want to worship God in a beautiful place that their ancestors in the faith created for them a long time ago.

“Ascension’s restart is a sign of hope for our Diocese and the City of Buffalo, said the Very Rev. David Selzer, Dean of Central Erie. “The Episcopal Church is not going to abandon the city, and we will use our facility and people resources to be the presence of God in Western New York. As former Senator John Danforth said at the 2006 General Convention: ‘The Episcopal Church is the right church for the right time.’ We in Western New York are committed to this vision, living the Gospel in the midst of the City.”

Dean DeLiza spangler of St. Paul’s Cathedral shares David’s enthusiasm. “As Christians,” she says, “we are to step out in faith, trusting that where we are being led is where we are called to go, even if we can’t clearly see every step along the way. The Church of the Ascension is doing just that, and I am grateful for the witness of faith, courage and discipleship which they are giving to us all.”

Please pray for the faithful members at Church of the Ascension, that they may have the focus and courage to live into God’s dream for them. Let your friends in other dioceses know what a little church with a big vision is doing in Western New York. Be assured that God’s joy with Ascension is like God’s joy for you, and celebrate the hope he’s given us in Jesus Christ.