Pastor JoAnn Post's retirement from Ascension and from active ministry (May 31) is both an end and a beginning for the congregation. Pastor Post came to Ascension in the fall of 2014, and has been part of more than a decade of energy and purpose, redefining the congregation's goals and priorities, while tending faithfully to the various communities in its care. 

Pastor Post is retiring after 41 years of ordained ministry, deeply sad to leave the work and people she loves, but eager to greet the next chapter in her life. The congregation received news of her retirement with both grief and gratitude. As the Ministry Site Profile for the call process reports, "While no one is eager for the disruption and loss that the current pastoral transition represents, in a distinctively Ascension fashion, its leaders have come to regard it as an opportunity for renewal and redirection. The congregation is excited to release their beloved pastor with God's blessings, and then consider how to welcome a successor with new gifts and ideas."

A call committee of eight members will oversee the call process. In the meantime, between Pastor Post's departure and the arrival of the next pastor, the congregation will be served by both supply and interim pastors. Staff members are remaining in their roles, to guide and steady the congregation in this time of transition.