What a joy to the world that received the unspeakable gift-that God gave his only begotten son Jesus Christ! “Thanks be unto God for his unspeakable gift” ( II Corinthians 9:15). World over, during Christmas season people were busy joyfully exchanging greetings and gifts. In the midst of joyful celebration we often tend to forget the unspeakable and priceless gift that we have ever received. In the last decade ending in the year 2011, many of us have experienced events such as our nations financial instability and growth, natural disaster-Tsunami, middle East-unrest and the Iraq war-end. In reviewing last year’s experience it is bitter for many. Even in the midst of all , these
crises the Lord has done great things in our parish life. Your support to our parish is wonderful. It is always exciting when a new year arrives before us and we have a great future ahead of us to build up our Christian community. Let us uphold each other in our prayer and that it might be a good year for everyone of us.

Personally speaking the year 2011was a great and unforgettable year in my own life. On the 14th January, I had undergone quadruple by pass surgery. I am thankful to God  with my family for all His blessings and healing in my life. The Lord has blessed me and I am well to carry on the  task  he has given to me.

Our annual Parish meeting and potluck luncheon took place on the 15th January and I thank you all for participating in the meeting. The following members were elected to serve on the vestry: Gene Taylor, Lenna Finck and Lee Sohl, and Ann Fortune was appointed as a Sr. Warden. I ask you to pray for the vestry and their leadership so that we can work for the common cause of Christ Ministry. Here I need to mention few members name, Bob Stocker, Lenna Fink, Lee Sohl and Geri Shirk for their hard work in the parish. I thank them for their wonderful time and talents which they contribute to the parish.

On the Shrove Tuesday - we will have our annual pancake supper. This year, Jim McCormick and Bob Finck will head the Pancake supper and they need all the support and help of our men’s group of Ascension. Lent begins on the 22nd  February. During the Lenten season on Wednesday’s, we will study the Alpha Course which will help us to grow more in our Biblical knowledge and to strengthen our Faith more in Christ. Please do bring a friend and neighbors to join with us in sharing the Love of God. As usual in the past years, different committees of Ascension will host the soup supper on Wednesdays.

Fr.Yesu