ASCENSION
THE EPISCOPAL CHURCH OF THE
Our Ministries
At The Episcopal Church of the Ascension, we love to worship God, enjoy life together, and support our community. From children to youth, young adults to seniors, there are many ways to grow in faith, serve others, and build meaningful relationships. Whether you are new or have been here for years, we invite you to come and see how God is at work among us.
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Recovery & Support Ministries
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Alcoholics Anonymous (AA)
AA meets every Tuesday from 6:30–7:30 p.m. in the Grace House on the parish campus at 3600 West
Arlington Loop.
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Al-Anon
Al-Anon meets every Monday from 6:00–7:00 p.m. in the Grace House on the parish campus at 3600
West Arlington Loop.
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Life, Faith, and Freedom
This support group meets Thursdays from 6:00–7:30 p.m. in the Parish Hall at 3600 West Arlington Loop.
Worship Ministries
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Acolytes
Children and adults serve as acolytes, assisting in worship as servers, torchbearers, crucifers, thurifers,
banner-bearers, and candle lighters. Training is provided for all who feel called to serve.
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Altar Guild
The Altar Guild prepares the altar for Eucharist and cares for communion vessels, linens, and altar
hangings in accordance with the liturgical calendar. The guild works in teams, with special preparation
days before Christmas and Easter. Training is available.
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Bread Guild
Members of the Bread Guild bake our communion bread weekly using a beloved honey-wheat recipe.
This behind-the-scenes ministry is a meaningful way to serve worship at Ascension.
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Flower Guild
The Flower Guild creates floral arrangements for worship services and special events. No prior
experience is necessary—training is available. Flowers are often shared with homebound parishioners
following services.
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Lectors​
Lectors read Scripture and lead prayers during worship, lending their voices to the ancient and sacred
practice of proclaiming God’s Word. Readers of all ages and experience levels are welcome.
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Vergers
Vergers assist clergy with the smooth and orderly conduct of worship, lead processions, prepare the
sanctuary, and help coordinate acolytes and lectors. This role is ideal for those who enjoy organization
and ceremonial leadership.
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Worship Leaders
Licensed Worship Leaders are trained laypersons who lead Morning or Evening Prayer and other services
under clergy direction. This ministry requires diocesan training and licensing and offers a deep
opportunity for spiritual leadership.
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Music Ministry or Choir
Our dedicated choir and organist enrich worship through hymns and anthems. Rehearsals are held
Thursdays at 5:00 p.m. and Sundays at 9:30 a.m. No formal training is required—if you enjoy singing,
you are welcome. Ascension celebrates both traditional and contemporary music, including Heritage
Hymns each July.
Formation & Fellowship
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Biscuits and Bibles
Held between the 8:00 and 10:30 a.m. Sunday services, this adult formation gathering features
scripture-based discussion alongside biscuits, sausage, and plenty of coffee. Volunteers are always
welcome.
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Children’s Ministry
Children from birth through 5th grade are welcomed through nursery care and Sunday School. Lessons
follow the liturgical calendar and emphasize God’s love through learning and play. Communion is offered
to children with parental permission.
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Canterbury / ECUSM (Episcopal Church at USM)
Ascension proudly serves as the Episcopal ministry for the University of Southern Mississippi. Students
gather Tuesdays at 6:30 p.m. for worship, meals, and fellowship, and many worship with us on Sundays.
Outreach Ministries
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Angel Tree
Each Christmas, Ascension participates in the Angel Tree program, providing gifts for children of
incarcerated parents. Parishioners select ornaments, shop for gifts, and help deliver Christmas joy.
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Breadbasket
Breadbasket is a long-standing, interfaith food pantry serving the Hattiesburg community. Ascension has
participated since its founding in 1981. Donations of food and funds are always welcome.
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Canterbury Blessing Box
Located at the entrance of our parking lot is the Canterbury Blessing Box. Students envisioned
and designed this feature which provides, by donations, non-perishable food and toiletries for
anyone in need—available 24/7.
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Camp Bratton-Green Fund
Donations to this fund help support youth attending summer camp at Camp Bratton-Green, a formative
experience in faith and community.
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Eagle’s Nest Food Pantry
Ascension supports the Eagle’s Nest Food Pantry at USM, providing food assistance to students and staff
experiencing food insecurity.
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Hope in Action
A collaborative fundraising ministry supporting the Domestic Abuse Family Shelter and other community
needs, often through events such as silent auctions.
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Seymour’s Career Closet
Ascension donates professional clothing to help USM students prepare for interviews, internships, and
career opportunities.
Care & Service Ministries
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Columbarium Committee
This committee maintains Ascension’s columbarium and memorial garden, ensuring a peaceful, prayerful
space for remembrance.
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Daughters of the King (DOK)
Daughters of the King is an order dedicated to prayer, service, and evangelism. Our chapter, Adelphe’,
offers confidential prayer support and engages in outreach throughout the church and community.
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Hospitality Committee
This team supports parish events by organizing food, decorations, setup, cleanup, and care of church
linens—living out Ascension’s value of gracious hospitality.
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Landscape Committee
Caressing for the beauty of our campus through planting, weeding, and planning. All skill levels are
welcome.
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Lay Eucharistic Visitors
Licensed parishioners bring Communion to those unable to attend services, maintaining spiritual
connection with the church community. Training is provided.
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Simon Ministry
Simon Ministry offers in-reach care through meals, cards, and personal check-ins during times of
hardship or celebration.
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Thanksgiving Meal
On Thanksgiving Day, Ascension hosts a meal open to parishioners and the wider community, including
international students—offering fellowship and welcome to all.
Prayer & Reflection
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The Labyrinth
Located on the Arlington Loop side of the campus, the labyrinth offers a sacred space for prayer,
meditation, and reflection. Unlike a maze, a labyrinth has one winding path to the center and back,
inviting stillness, clarity, and spiritual renewal.