MISSION

Members and pastors have come and gone, but the mission of Ascension Lutheran Church remains the same:  As we are nurtured and grow in faith through the teaching and preaching of the Word of God, we aim to meet the people of our community with the saving message of Jesus Christ.  It is in reaching out and bringing people in that we are able to keep the command of our Lord who commissioned us to make disciples of all nations.

HISTORY

 

Ascension Lutheran Church began on September 30, 1954 when Rev. Calton Kjergaard held a Bible study for seven people.  On October 31st of that year, 63 people attended Ascensions' first worship service in the McMaster Park building.  As the small congregation grew, the Mission Board purchased a small farm house on four acres of land in Torrance.

 

1. Rev. Lloyd C. Warneke was installed as the first resident pastor of Ascension in May of 1956.  As the congregation grew, members planned to build a new house of worship.  The Parish Hall was dedicated on November 11, 1956.
   
   
2. In 1960, Ascension Day School began with seven students enrolled in Kindergarten.  Additional grades were added over time, and in 1964 the first eighth grade graduation was held.
   
   
3. On August 25th, 1968, the cornerstone of Ascension's present sanctuary was laid.  The sanctuary and the administration wing were dedicated in 1969.
   
   
4. Rev. Alan Wyneken was installed in August of 1976.  He served the congregation for thirteen years.
   
   
5. Six refurbished classrooms were dedicated on April 13, 1986;  On September 8, 1987 Ascension Preschool began.
   
   
6. Rev. John Gross was installed as Assistant Pastor in August of 1988, and in 1990, became the Senior Pastor.  He served until 1999.
   
   
7. Our next full-time pastor was Rev. Daniel Moriarity.
   
   
8. Our current pastor is Rev. Michael Abram.  He was officially installed as Pastor of Ascension on May 2, 2010.