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People are often searching for a place where their deepest spiritual concerns will be addressed honestly. A place where they will be welcomed into a community that shares a common vision. No jargon, no hype. Real people trying to discover who God is together. Church of the Ascension is a new congregation that meets in Elmhurst. Our services blend the ancient and the contemporary and our goal is to present a clear and thoughtful message about what it means to be Christian.

Follow

Matthew Pechanio
January 27, 2012
Part 1

We have all had the experience of being in a new neighborhood with friends who are driving separate cars. Your friend tells you, stay behind me, i won't lose you. And so when someone says follow me – you follow. Keeping the taillights in view – and when they stop and wait at an intersection so you can get through – its very comforting.

In that scenario you have an idea of where you are going, although the experience is new and you are not personally aware of the specifics. Also, and very importantly, you trust the person you are following.

Union

Matthew Pechanio
January 23, 2012
Part 2

True Spirituality is very earthy, not otherworldly. – which is contrary to the way many people think about it…

Let’s talk about Christmas and winter for a moment. For many people wintertime is dreadful.

Union

Matthew Pechanio
January 19, 2012
Part 1

Ever been to Sedona Arizona? It's beautiful. And very spiritual, full of vortexes. The vortexes of Sedona are named because they are believed to be spiritual locations where the energy is right to facilitate prayer, mediation and healing. Vortex sites are believed to be locations having energy flow that exists on multiple dimensions. The energy of the vortexes interacts with a person’s inner self.

Let me illustrate something...

Jesus is the Center

Matthew Pechanio
January 11, 2012
Sermons for January and February

We have entered the Season of Epiphany. The name “Epiphany” is derived from a Greek word meaning ‘manifestation’ or ‘appearing’. Epiphany Day (January 6) commemorates the visit of the Three Wise Men, the Baptism of Jesus by John in the Jordan River, and Jesus’ first recorded miracle, the changing of water into wine. All of these events are considered manifestations of the power and presence of the incarnate Lord. During Epiphany we will commit ourselves to Jesus in the Center—of our lives and our world.

Matthew’s Sermon Themes for Epiphany are:
January 14: Union with Jesus

I Resolve...

Matthew Pechanio
January 06, 2012
to Spend Less Money, Eat Better and Get More Organized, continued

Unfortunately many of our resolutions become tasks to accomplish and we carry them out in our own strength. And when we make spiritual resolutions they too become accomplishments and goals to attain. We try to get more done, take what we can and put things to our use.