Membership
We do not discriminate on the basis of race, ethnicity, sex, sexual orientation, or gender identity. We require rigorous preparation for ordained ministry but encourage maximum self-determination and a creative response to the needs of today’s world.
Clergy Members
Anyone already ordained or consecrated in apostolic succession can apply for “incardination” into our organization. Discernment about the appropriateness of fit is a matter for both the applicant and Ascension. We require proof of prior ordination and valid apostolic succession. We ask recognized clergy in our organization for a modest annual clergy tithe. Clergy persons ordained without apostolic succession may apply for admission to our non-residential ordination program, a highly decentralized program of study that prepares persons for ordained and non-ordained ministry. For persons ordained in other traditions, we look at prior learning as well as the knowledge, values, and skills we believe are necessary for the practice of a creative ministry. A separate information packet is available from Ascension Theological College.
Lay Members
Any lay person associated with an incardinated clergy person or participating in an affiliated ministry is considered a member of the Ascension movement. In addition, anyone interested in becoming an individual member of the Ascension organization may do so for a modest annual tithe as an "enrolled member."
Ministries
Any ordained or non-ordained person in our organization may apply for a charter for their ministry. Affiliated ministries become eligible to participate in the tax-exempt status of the parent organization. All are bound by our ethics and conflict-of-interest policies. Chartered ministries must adopt their own by-laws and have at least three officers. We ask them to make a nominal contribution to the Ascension organization.
Background Checks
Applicants for incardination and ordination may be asked to undergo a criminal and child protective background check to determine their suitability for ministry. On a case-by-case basis, they may be asked to undergo a psychological evaluation. Expenses for background checks and/or psychological evaluation shall be the responsibility of the applicant.
Spiritual Direction
We encourage our clergy to have an ongoing formal relationship with a spiritual director to offer fellowship, spiritual direction, guidance, and consultation.
Tithes & Fees
The following are the annual tithes and fees for those wishing a formal affiliation with Ascension Alliance.
Chartered ministry
The Ascension Alliance is a 501(c)(3) tax exempt Church and has been granted a group exemption letter from the IRS. The group exemption letter provides a way for Chartered Ministries to participate in the tax-exempt status of the central organization. “Plank Holder” or “Lifetime” Charter: The first ten ministries to apply were granted a “plank holder” or “lifetime” Charter. Regular Charter: New charter applicants are assessed $153 annual tithe. Payment of the first year must accompany the Charter Agreement. *Note: All charter holders are exempt from annual clergy tithes.
Clergy Members
Anyone already ordained or consecrated in apostolic succession can apply for “incardination” into our organization. Discernment about the appropriateness of fit is a matter for both the applicant and Ascension. We require proof of prior ordination and valid apostolic succession. We ask recognized clergy in our organization for a modest annual clergy tithe. Clergy persons ordained without apostolic succession may apply for admission to our non-residential ordination program, a highly decentralized program of study that prepares persons for ordained and non-ordained ministry. For persons ordained in other traditions, we look at prior learning as well as the knowledge, values, and skills we believe are necessary for the practice of a creative ministry. A separate information packet is available from Ascension Theological College.
Lay Members
Any lay person associated with an incardinated clergy person or participating in an affiliated ministry is considered a member of the Ascension movement. In addition, anyone interested in becoming an individual member of the Ascension organization may do so for a modest annual tithe as an "enrolled member."
Ministries
Any ordained or non-ordained person in our organization may apply for a charter for their ministry. Affiliated ministries become eligible to participate in the tax-exempt status of the parent organization. All are bound by our ethics and conflict-of-interest policies. Chartered ministries must adopt their own by-laws and have at least three officers. We ask them to make a nominal contribution to the Ascension organization.
Background Checks
Applicants for incardination and ordination may be asked to undergo a criminal and child protective background check to determine their suitability for ministry. On a case-by-case basis, they may be asked to undergo a psychological evaluation. Expenses for background checks and/or psychological evaluation shall be the responsibility of the applicant.
Spiritual Direction
We encourage our clergy to have an ongoing formal relationship with a spiritual director to offer fellowship, spiritual direction, guidance, and consultation.
Tithes & Fees
The following are the annual tithes and fees for those wishing a formal affiliation with Ascension Alliance.
- Individual member – annual tithe: $25
- Clergy incardination – application fee: $25 (Will Be Applied to Suggested Annual Tithe)
- Clergy member – annual tithe: $50
Chartered ministry
The Ascension Alliance is a 501(c)(3) tax exempt Church and has been granted a group exemption letter from the IRS. The group exemption letter provides a way for Chartered Ministries to participate in the tax-exempt status of the central organization. “Plank Holder” or “Lifetime” Charter: The first ten ministries to apply were granted a “plank holder” or “lifetime” Charter. Regular Charter: New charter applicants are assessed $153 annual tithe. Payment of the first year must accompany the Charter Agreement. *Note: All charter holders are exempt from annual clergy tithes.
