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History of AscensionVirtual Tour

Discover Our Legacy

Explore the rich history of our historic church and its impact on the community.

1884-1952

Holy Trinity Church of Pueblo

Drawing of Holy Trinity Church

South Pueblo was organized and incorporated as a town under the laws of the old Territory of Colorado on October 27, 1873, A second Episcopal church was organized in this new town in 1881. It was first named St. Paul's and later changed to Holy Trinity. In December of 1882, a contract was approved for the construction of a church at a cost of $2,400 and the first service was held on Palm Sunday of 1884. Holy Trinity was sold to the Divine Scientists on June30, 1952 for the sum of $35,000 and its members incorporated with the Church of the Ascension.

1868-1896

St. Peter's Episcopal Church Pueblo

Pueblo's first religious edifice was erected at the northwest corner of Seventh Street and Santa Fe Avenue in 1868 at a cost of $3,865. Colorado Territory Bishop George M. Randall provided $1,000 toward the costs and dedicated the building on July 1, 1869. The Reverend Frank Wilson, an Episcopalian missionary priest and eight prominent Pueblo men organized the parish until it encountered financial difficulties. In 1891 the majority of the congregation departed to establish the Church of the Ascension.

Drawing Ascension Pueblo

1891-Present

Church of the Ascension

Drawing of Ascension Pueblo

The mission of Ascension was formed on the feast of the Ascension, May 12, 1891. The newly formed congregation rented the old Presbyterian church building at the corner of Ninth & Court Sts. for $20.00 per month. The first services were held there on June 21, 1891. On April 3, 1893, the vestry men of Ascension Mission petitioned the Bishop to become a parish with the Rev. Reginal Radcliffe elected Rector. In 1902-03, Ascension rented the old St. Peter's Church until the new church was completed at 18th & Grand in 1914. The building was dedicated by the Right Reverend Charles Sandord Olmstead, Bishop of Colorado on June 21, 1914. The rector at that time was The Reverend Thomas Casady. 
In the mid 1980's, Ascension added a Columbarium. Departed loved ones of the parish could be interred on the church site. This provided another way for Ascension to meet the needs of parishioners.
Ascension parish is a vital christian community, committed to nurturing the Christian faith and life of its members, and reaching out in love to Pueblo and the larger world. The Church of the Ascension is an active and growing parish with a caring and enthusiastic membership. Ascension has ministries and opportunities for participation for all ages.

A Walk Through Time

Uncover the Layers of Ascension Episcopal Church's History and Symbolism

Entrance to the Church

It is at this spot that you are entering Holy Space. From here you begin a Pilgrimage to God. Notice that the focus is on the Altar -The Lord's Table- and the path to God leads past His Word, read from the lectern on the left, the Gospel proclaimed from the pulpit on the right, and through Baptism-front left corner of the church.

The overall architecture is particularly fitting for the worship style of the Episcopal Church at the turn of the century -but even more modern adaptations work nicely in our worship space.

Lest you forget God's works as you leave here, the Christ the King window above is a gift of Priscilla McCabe, who died in December of 1986.

The window begins with Creation at the top. Notice the Sun to the left and moon and stars on the right. See the blue waters with the fish and other animals, even a giraffe, the earth, plants and Adam and Eve.

The lower portion is centered on Christ on his throne -with satan as his footstool. Symbols include the Alpha and the Omega-the first and last letters of the Greek alphabet, referring to God as the beginning and the end.

Angels are ministering to the King-also note the symbols of the four Evangelists: Matthew, Mark, Luke and John. And below the Sheep-we are the sheep. Jesus said to his disciples, "Feed my sheep."

Large window at entrance of Ascension Church
Center view -Ascension Pueblo
Photo tour of Ascension Church Pueblo

Mid-aisle of the Church

This part of the church is called the "Nave," a word thought to derive from the Latin "navis" meaning ship.

Notice how the construction above is reminiscent of a ship upside-down. This part of the church traditionally belongs to the laity -but that does not rank the people as lower-class members. All members are equal part of the Body of Christ through Baptism. On the west wall are the Gospel windows all done in the Tudor Gothic style-characterized by the long, narrow windows and figures intended to "lift you up to the presence of God."

The north window shows St. John, and in order to the south are St. Luke, St. Mark and St. Matthew.

Notice that each of the Gospel writers is holding a scroll, presumably of the word of God. Also, each of the windows has the Christian "fish" symbol in its center design as well as shepherd's crooks in the scroll work .

The individual symbol of each saint is the Eagle for John because it was said his gaze pierced further into the mysteries of heaven than that of any man.

St. Luke has the winged ox as symbol--pointing to the sacrificial aspects of Christ's life.

St. Mark has the winged lion as symbol-referring to his descriptions of the royal dignity of Christ.

St. Matthew's symbol is the "Divine Man" because his Gospel teaches us about the human nature of Christ.

To the East-and above-the clerestory windows carry the traditional symbolism of Christianity.

Beginning at the South-The Church on the Rock refers to Matthew 16:18 in which Jesus says, "I tell you, you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church..." The Rock is a symbol of Peter while the ten stars are the other ten disciples. (Judas, the betrayer, is not there, of course.)

The chalice with Wheat and Grapes symbolizes the Eucharist (a Greek word meaning "thanksgiving".) The wheat gathered from the countryside, in its brokenness becomes one in the loaf. The broken grapes became one in the wine. So, also, God's people, in their brokenness, became one in the Body of Christ.

Fountain and Birds: Christ is the fountain of life, of living water which washes away sins and gives eternal life. The birds have represented the souls of the faithful.

Cross and Crown: Symbols of Christ's victory over death.

Fish and Anchor: Early Christian symbols. The anchor could be shown so as to form a cross.

Center Aisle- Ascension Pueblo
Photo tour of the stained glass windows of Ascension Church Pueblo
Photo tour of the stained glass windows of Ascension Church Pueblo

East Side

Baptism is entrance into the Body of Christ and membership in The Church. We don't baptize Episcopalians, but Christians.

This font is in memory of the Rev. A. E. Oliver who lived from 1862-1897 and was the 2nd Rector of Ascension, serving from 1895 through 1896. He also served at Holy Trinity Parish located on Routt and was actually buried there, under the altar until that church merged with Ascension in 1944 and the church was sold. Fr. Oliver was moved to Roselawn at that time.

A note on Baptism: Baptism is the outward sign of God's washing away of our sins and raising us up to a new life in Christ. It is appropriately done by pouring water over the head or through total immersion. The early church practiced immersion in the warm climate around the Mediterranean Sea, but as it grew to the north and to England, in colder climates, it became more common to pour water. (Sprinkling is not used)

The windows along the east and north walls teach the life of Christ: Beginning by the Baptismal Font is the Annunciation. Here the angel Gabriel appears to Mary.

The Nativity shows the birth of Jesus. Notice the animals.

The flight into Egypt shows Joseph taking Mary and the baby Jesus to Egypt after being warned in a dream that the Christ Child was in danger.

Jesus, Mary and John the Baptist. Here, the window portrays a part of the life of Christ we don't know much about, but it shows Jesus and his cousin, John, 1earning from Mary.

Jesus teaching in the Temple. Notice the figures of Mary and Joseph above, and the expressions of the learned men.

Along the north wall, the Baptism Window. The baptismal font was originally at this spot which effectively pointed out that Baptism is entry into the church, but since baptisms are done during regular Sunday worship, it was difficult for people to see. The window here portrays the Baptism of Jesus by John in the Jordan River .The words ECCE AGNUS DEI mean "Behold the Lamb of God"-the words of John.

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Rood screen and Pulpit - St. Paul Window

This is a major dividing line between parts of the Church. These columns-or screen-are called the "Rood Screen" which divides the "Nave" from the Choir. Rood (pronounced "Rude") is a word meaning "Cross". These divisions of our Holy Space are traditions going back to Old Testament times in separating the temple (our worship area) by degrees of holiness. (This by no means judges the holiness of the individuals who carry out their assigned roles)

Above the Rood Screen originally was a plain Celtic (Pronounced "Kel-teek") cross which was replaced by the crucifixion scene in 1971. The scene of Jesus on the Cross, flanked by his mother, Mary and the disciple whom Jesus loved, is reminiscent of the 19th Chapter of John, verses 26 and 27.

The screen represents death-but death on the way to victory, or from "Strength to Strength in the life of perfect service" as we say in our funeral service which is itself an Easter service.

The Lectern is where the scriptures are read .At least one New Testament reading-one from the Epistles and one from the Gospel-at each service. Notice how the Lectern can turn. Sometimes it would be placed in the center aisle.

The Pulpit is where the Scriptures which have been read are proclaimed-explained in a way that applies the Scripture to everyday life.

St. Paul Window: We have been concerned about how St. Paul feels about only getting half a window-but the message is clear. God's word cuts like a two-edged sword. Paul was the writer of much of the New Testament and Apostle to the Gentiles and founder of the Churches in the Roman world.

Choir: This is set up in the old English tradition, singers facing each other and not looking as if they were performers; music is intended to the Glory of God and not ourselves. The original organ, an Austin, was built in 1918--the same make as one in Pueblo's Memorial Hall. Behind the pipes is a large room that fills with air and as the key is pressed on the organ keyboard, air is released from the room through the appropriate pipe.

Rood Screen at Ascension Pueblo
Rood Screen at Ascension Pueblo
Rood Screen at Ascension Pueblo

Altar and Chancel or Sanctuary

This is another division of Holy Space within the Church. The Altar Rail divides the Choir from the Sanctuary. It is here that worshippers come, kneel and receive the Communion of the Body and Blood of Christ. Notice the kneelers which have the symbols of different saints done in needlepoint.

Above the rail is the Sanctuary Lamp that burns to indicate God's special presence in the Body and Blood of Christ which is reserved in a Tabernacle and will be used to take Communion to the sick and shut-in members. The "IHS" on the tabernacle door is the Latin form of "IHC" and a monogram for the name of Jesus. Wrongly translated from Greek to Latin, numerous explanations are given as to its meaning. Most common in Latin is "Iesus Hominum Salvator" meaning "Jesus, Savior of Men".

The Altar, which is made of White marble, was originally set against the wall and the priest would celebrate the Eucharist with his back to the congregation. In the 1970s, the altar was moved out and the priest now stands facing the people during this part of the worship.

The back wall area is called the Reredos.

The inset carvings, done in dark Oak and imported from Oberammergau, Germany, for the first service were a gift of Mrs. Harry Vanderveer, in memory of her sister, Mrs. Lannon, according to a story in the Pueblo Chieftain at the time.

The lower reliefs are from left to right: The Annunciation: the Angel Gabriel with Mary. The Visitation: Mary being greeted by Elizabeth, mother of John the Baptist. Flight to Egypt: Joseph taking Mary and Jesus away from danger. Notice Joseph's outstretched arm. Jesus in the Temple: Jesus, at the age of 12, teaching the elders in the temple. (Luke 2: 41-52)

The Archangels above are Michael on the left and Gabriel an the right. Michael (See Revelation 12:7-9) defeats the dragon-notice the tip of the sword pinning the dragon down.

Gabriel-a name meaning "man of God"-brought wisdom and understanding to Daniel helping him to understand his visions and later foretells the birth of John the Baptist and announces the plan of incarnation to the Virgin Mary.

More down to earth is the Bishop's Chair, upholstered in blue needlepoint and carrying the seal of the Diocese of Colorado. The chair is used only when the Bishop visits the parish, and is then placed in the center aisle where those being confirmed in the faith kneel before the Bishop to receive the laying-on of hands.

Center view -Ascension Pueblo
View of altar at Ascension Pueblo
Altar view -Ascension Pueblo

The Holy Week Windows

The Holy Week windows along the West side of the church tell the story of the main events leading up to our Lord's crucifixion and resulting in the Easter faith.

Cleansing of the Temple: "My Father's house is a house of prayer," Jesus says as the money changers are driven out. Notice the three doves-signs of the Holy Spirit surrounding Jesus. Also notice the whip in the lower portion.

Palm Sunday: Notice the green palm branches along the way, and consider the meaning of the expressions on the faces of the bystanders. The Rose in the lower part of the window is the mark or symbol of special favor to a distinguished individual-Jesus of Nazareth on Palm Sunday.

The Last Supper: This window is in memory of Benjamin Dagwell, Rector of Ascension from 1920-1924, Dean of the Cathedral in Denver and Bishop of Oregon.

The window carries out the theme of wheat and grape, bread and wine reminding us of early Christian teaching that like the broken grains of wheat became one in the loaf, so the broken individuals become one in the Body of Christ.

Crucifixion: Jesus dies on the cross in apparent defeat. But, at the bottom you see the banner of Christ.

Easter Window: The Banner seen on Good Friday is now raised and death is overcome, Jesus is raised from the dead. Notice the figure shielding himself from such power. Also, the butterfly is a symbol of new life.

Ascension Window: Jesus was lifted up, victorious now, and taken out of sight of the disciples who then returned to Jerusalem and devoted themselves to a life of prayer. The Chi Rho symbol is simply the first two letters of Christ written in the Greek alphabet.

Gospel Stained Glass Window at Ascension Pueblo
Gospel Stained Glass Window at Ascension Pueblo

Altar and Chancel or Sanctuary

This is another division of Holy Space within the Church. The Altar Rail divides the Choir from the Sanctuary. It is here that worshippers come, kneel and receive the Communion of the Body and Blood of Christ. Notice the kneelers which have the symbols of different saints done in needlepoint.

Above the rail is the Sanctuary Lamp that burns to indicate God's special presence in the Body and Blood of Christ which is reserved in a Tabernacle and will be used to take Communion to the sick and shut-in members. The "IHS" on the tabernacle door is the Latin form of "IHC" and a monogram for the name of Jesus. Wrongly translated from Greek to Latin, numerous explanations are given as to its meaning. Most common in Latin is "Iesus Hominum Salvator" meaning "Jesus, Savior of Men".

The Altar, which is made of White marble, was originally set against the wall and the priest would celebrate the Eucharist with his back to the congregation. In the 1970s, the altar was moved out and the priest now stands facing the people during this part of the worship.

The back wall area is called the Reredos.

The inset carvings, done in dark Oak and imported from Oberammergau, Germany, for the first service were a gift of Mrs. Harry Vanderveer, in memory of her sister, Mrs. Lannon, according to a story in the Pueblo Chieftain at the time.

The lower reliefs are from left to right: The Annunciation: the Angel Gabriel with Mary. The Visitation: Mary being greeted by Elizabeth, mother of John the Baptist. Flight to Egypt: Joseph taking Mary and Jesus away from danger. Notice Joseph's outstretched arm. Jesus in the Temple: Jesus, at the age of 12, teaching the elders in the temple. (Luke 2: 41-52)

The Archangels above are Michael on the left and Gabriel an the right. Michael (See Revelation 12:7-9) defeats the dragon-notice the tip of the sword pinning the dragon down.

Gabriel-a name meaning "man of God"-brought wisdom and understanding to Daniel helping him to understand his visions and later foretells the birth of John the Baptist and announces the plan of incarnation to the Virgin Mary.

More down to earth is the Bishop's Chair, upholstered in blue needlepoint and carrying the seal of the Diocese of Colorado. The chair is used only when the Bishop visits the parish, and is then placed in the center aisle where those being confirmed in the faith kneel before the Bishop to receive the laying-on of hands.

Center view -Ascension Pueblo
Altar view -Ascension Pueblo
Rood Screen at Ascension Pueblo
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