For the past several years, Denise, Pam, and I have served on the committee known as Parish Life. It was mentioned at the annual meeting, that Parish Life oversees all the wonderful potlucks and receptions we have. The AMEN group, DOK and the Cursillo group are part of Parish Life. Coffee and donut host and any social event are part of Parish Life. The three of us have received many blessings because we have seen “real life” gifts that people have, and offer, to what we know as Parish Life.

Come to think of it, Parish Life crosses over into other aspects such as Stewardship, Worship, Evangelism, Education and Service. Or maybe it is the other way around. Maybe all other aspects crossover into what is known as Parish Life.

The Stewardship committee needs volunteers to serve. Consider giving part of your life or time to your parish by volunteering. Although the 2009 Lenten meditations and the more recent Advent banners may have seemed to be a part of Worship, they were also a way for the Ascension family to connect and communicate. Evangelism and Education must take place in a parish for the parish to live and because Service is part of the Christian life, it is an integral part of Parish Life.

On Saturday, January 30th, there will be a Cursillo event, hosted by Ascension, beginning at 10:00. ALL are invited whether you have attended a Cursillo week-end or not. I encourage you to come to refresh or to come hear about how this movement can give you a new outlook, a breath of fresh air, which will in turn breathe life to this parish.

As stated earlier, it has been a real blessing to serve on this committee and I feel the three of us will remain committed to Parish Life. Hmmm? Committed to Parish Life or Committed to the Life of this Parish? I’m crossing over to the Committed to the Life of this Parish side, with God’s help and with your help too.

Barbara H.

Click here to read from past Son Rises.

The Episcopal Church of the Ascension in Hattiesburg, Mississippi is a church community united by a joyful, caring spirit and a commitment to outreach to Hattiesburg and beyond. Ascension values the unique resources, skills, and talents of all individuals and welcome their use. At the Church of the Ascension we celebrate God's love through worship, education, mutual support, and outreach to our church family, the University of Southern Mississippi, and the larger community. We nurture the continued growth of our spiritual community.