Episcopal Church of the Ascension Hickory

07/02/2026

Last month, we bid farewell to our interim Rector, the Rev. Mike Alford, as he leaves Ascension to begin a new ministry at St. Luke’s in Boone. We wish him and his wife Rebecca well and ask God to bless their family and their new congregation. Thank you, Fr. Mike!

Ascension has welcomed a new interim Rector, the Rev. Garry Edwards. Check back soon for a greeting from Fr. Garry!

06/25/2026

Looking for your next great read? Stop by The Episcopal Church of the Ascension for our First Annual Used Book Sale, happening June 26 – July 26!

✨ Great Prices:
📖 Hardbacks – $2 each or 6 for $10
📚 Paperbacks – $1 each or 6 for $5
🧒 Children's & YA Books – $1 each or 6 for $5
💙 Special collector and edition books are marked with a blue ribbon and priced separately.

Browse a wide selection of fiction, non-fiction, classics, children's books, and more. You never know what treasure you'll discover!

🕒 Sale Hours:
• Weekdays (Parish Office Hours): 9:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m.
• Saturdays: 2:00–4:00 p.m. (Closed July 4)
• Sundays: 8:00 a.m.–Noon

💵 Cash or check only. Exact change is appreciated—or feel free to round up your purchase to support the cause!

Every purchase helps fund future Episcopal Church Women projects. Come find your next favorite book while supporting a great ministry! ❤️📚

06/10/2026

A Pastoral Message from Father Mike

June 10, 2026

Dear Friends,

As my time at Ascension draws to a close, I want to take this opportunity to express my heartfelt gratitude for the privilege of sharing in the life and ministry of this parish. It’s difficult to believe that Sunday will be my last time in the pulpit here. The time we’ve spent together has been filled with grace, fellowship, and countless reminders of God's abiding faithfulness.

From the very beginning, you welcomed Rebecca and me with warmth and generosity. Together we’ve worshiped, prayed, celebrated joys, and walked through challenges. We’ve shared laughter and stories, marked holy seasons, and sought to discern God's call for Ascension in this season of transition. Through it all, I’ve witnessed the love of Christ alive in this place. And I’ve been blessed by your faith, dedication, and hope.

I will carry with me the many friendships that have grown during our time together. I’m deeply grateful for your kindness, encouragement, and the trust you placed in me. I am a better priest because of you.

Interim ministry is, by its very nature, a season of preparation and transition. I was always meant to accompany you for a time and then entrust you to the next chapter God has prepared. As I take my leave, I do so with confidence and hope, knowing that the Holy Spirit continues to guide and sustain you. Ascension has a rich heritage and a bright future. I am certain that God will continue to bless your common life and ministry.

Be assured I will continue to hold you in my prayers. May God grant you wisdom, joy, and unity; and may you grow ever more deeply in faith, and continue to bear witness to the love of Christ in Hickory and beyond.

Thank you for allowing me to walk alongside you in this season. Thank you for your faithfulness, your friendship, and the many ways you've enriched my life and ministry. It has truly been a blessing to serve among you.

May God continue to bless Ascension and all who call it home.

In Christ,

Father Mike
Interim Rector

04/03/2026