Ascension Theological College
An educational program … must not be only a school, but a movement in spirit that goes beyond the reason of the academy. It must nurture the roots of life with balanced rations of mysticism. Only mysticism sustains the vitality and reality of faith. Education nowadays is often an attempt to serve the status quo. It shall not be so with us. We will lead you into brighter horizons and out into greater fulfillment. We will share many treasures with you that will open new vistas into a better and finer life. – Archbishop Herman Adrian Spruit, 1959
Ascension Theological College is a non-accredited, highly decentralized, program of study that offers structured guidance and mentorship to those willing to undergo rigorous study and practice that may lead to ordained or non-ordained ministry within the context of an inclusive, "independent," Catholic spiritual renewal movement.
Decentralization and Individualization
A hallmark of our approach is that we recognize there are many legitimate ways to learn and that our candidates may come from almost anywhere in the world, with diverse needs, resources, and local study opportunities. These may include but need not be limited to the following:
Current Leadership
Decentralization and Individualization
A hallmark of our approach is that we recognize there are many legitimate ways to learn and that our candidates may come from almost anywhere in the world, with diverse needs, resources, and local study opportunities. These may include but need not be limited to the following:
- Distance learning courses through our program
- Ascension workshops, “intensive” courses, and retreats held at the Hermitage or other locations
- Graduate studies at other institutions of higher learning
- Distance learning courses taken at other institutions
- Independent study courses done with an approved instructor according to the provisions of an independent study contract
- Individualized readings courses (by theme or author) done under the supervision of an approved reader, to include assignments and the submission of a final Integration Paper
- Hands-on projects
- Practica, CPE, or other supervised applied learning experiences
- Attendance at specialized workshops by approved teachers or organizations
Current Leadership
- Rev. Leslie Aguillard, General Assembly Representative, Board of Governors
- Most Rev. Bernie Finch, D.D., D.C., Bishop; Permanent Member, Board of Governors
- Most Rev. Roberto Foss, D.D., J.D., Presiding Bishop; Archbishop; Member, Board of Governors
- Most Rev. Patsy Grubbs, D.D., Presiding Bishop Emerita; Archbishop; Permanent Member, Board of Governors
- Most Rev. Alan R. Kemp, D.D., D.Min, Founder & Presiding Bishop Emeritus; Archbishop; Permanent Member, Board of Governors