Welcome to Ascension’s
Rector Search Page
Welcome and thank you for your interest in Church of the Ascension in Denver, Colorado, and our search for a new Rector! This page provides information on our search process steps and will be updated as the search proceeds.
As we embark on this search, our church is in a strong position. Ascension’s solid foundation finds its strength in its relentless commitment to one another and robust congregational involvement. We are a warm and loving parish, with a broad multi-generational member profile. We look forward to joyfully welcoming our 13th Rector, who will lead and partner with us as we continue to invite God into our lives and carry love into the world.
The search committee invites interested candidates to email your cover letter of interest, resume, OTM portfolio, and links to two sermons (video preferred)to the Rev. Canon Vanessa Stickler Glass, Canon for Transition and Wellness at vanessa@episcopalcolorado.org.
We joyfully look forward to collaborating with you!
Parish Profile
With input from parish members and staff, the Search Committee developed the Parish Profile, linked below, to share with candidates and provide a better description and understanding of Ascension. This profile tells the story of our community, historic roots, recent growth, and plans for a vibrant future. Thank you to Mary Margaret Murdock and Susanna Shannon for their expert layout and editing skills in producing this amazing profile document.
Our Search Process
The following graphic illustrates our search and transition process along with opportunities to input and be involved along the way.
Our Search Committee
Following the announcement of the retirement of our Rector, Weezie Blanchard, The Vestry appointed Chris Nazar as Chair and Christi Canada, John Douglas, Sherry McGinnis, Susanna Shannon, and Cullen Wold, as members of the Rector Search Committee. Working closely with the Vestry and the Bishop's Office, as well as seeking input from parishioners, the Search Committee will prepare a Parish Profile, interview candidates, and ultimately recommend nominees for our new rector to the Vestry. It is the Vestry's responsibility to elect the new rector. The Search Committee can be reached at: search@ascensiondenver.org.
Search Committee Updates
March 3rd Parish Forum:
On Sunday, March 3 during Coffee Hour after the 10 a.m. service, the Rector Search Committee held a Parish Forum to answer questions about and discuss the search process - including what happens during the interim between Rector Weezie Blanchard's retirement and the calling of the new rector. The Search Committee asked for ideas and vision for the skills we desire in the new rector. We focused on three questions:
What do we really love to do?
What are the one or two words that are most important to describe our next Rector?
What questions should the search committee ask candidates?
The committee collected three chart paper pages full of notes that were used to inform the parish profile and will be used to develop questions to ask potential Rector candidates.
For those unable to attend or who want to provide additional input, you can e-mail search@ascensiondenver.org or fill-out a comment card and put it in the comment box on the piano in the Parish Hall.