*****John and Helen As interviewed by Joyce*****

Prior to joining Ascension Lutheran Church as charter members, where did your family have membership?

Immanuel Lutheran Church, Wichita, Kansas

Why did you decide to be charter members of Ascension?

Close physical proximity of our home to the church location; and the influence of Pastor Kerekes’ leadership

Who were the family members that joined with you as a charter family?

Our children, Paul and Teresa.

What is your fondest memory of the beginnings of Ascension Lutheran Church?

John recalls that some income from wheat grown on acreage that the congregation owned subsidized the general budget. He also remembers that St. John’s Lutheran Church in Ellinwood, Kansas, loaned the church money to help out in the early years of the church history.

Both John and Helen recall fondly participating in the second Stephen Ministry training class that Ascension offered and they still both participate in this caring program.

What has been the biggest change in Ascension since 1960?

Ascension’s membership has increased in the number of individuals who are professional workers versus blue collar workers.

What has been the biggest change in west Wichita since 1960?

The city has grown so that more businesses and health services are offered on the west side then there were for many decades.

Share one story since Ascension began 50 years ago. John’s challenge to the congregation today as we plan for the next fifty years is to actively invest in all aspects of the church: financially, spiritually, etc. Members should serve with enthusiasm and then the excitement will flourish.