by William Mohr
The Church of the Ascension in Elmhurst, Queens, is a compact space of worship, with its length from entrance to altar approximately that of the width of many other churches in the diocese. However, on July 19, that small space witnessed a big and unique event — a spirit-filled song competition to honor the centennial of Ascension’s founding in 1926.
Under the pastoral care of Father Anacleto Asebias Jr., and multi-talented parishioners, six songs were auditioned in front of three judges and the parish for selection as Ascension’s centennial song to be used over the forthcoming year of celebrations.
The parish is blessed to have six choirs assisting in liturgies celebrated in English, Spanish, Tagalog, and Cebuano. The six submissions from parishioners were judged based on criteria assessing five elements, including congregational relevance and singability, theological integrity and clarity of message, and musical composition and structure.
The three judges were Marvin Gayatgay and April Glory De Guzman, both accomplished professional singers, and Sonia Pelmoka Mohr, a piano teacher and retired attorney.
The triumphant entry, “A Century of Grace and Glory,” was composed by Gladys Villanueva, arranged by Jim Charles Morales, and performed by Johnny Ramos. Its opening verses well frame the consoling faith journey of generations: “From the heart of old Ascension, You have called us as Your own; Through the storms and through the stillness, You have led with guiding light; Rooted deep in sacred promise, Faith has blossomed, bold and light.”
All of the submissions were spiritually relevant and worthy of the top prize award of $800; each of the five other submissions received a $200 consolation prize. The first song was performed by Anna Rodriguez, a member of the parish choir, who sang, “At Ascension, we stand in grace; A people called to seek your face.”
Another notable submission, “In the Light of Faith,” written by Emelita Guingab, began with a single soprano voice of Susan Acharon who was joined, one by one, by additional members of the choir until all nine singers were of one voice.
Another selection, “Ascension Church: 100 Years,” written and arranged by Ed Contreras, and performed by his daughter, MaryAnn, epitomized the talented Ascension parishioners. The other entries were: “A Journey to Jesus,” written by Vernie Mendoza, arranged by Ed Boras, and performed by Hazel Mojares; and “Ascending through the Years,” written, arranged, and performed by Meloy Arce.
Asension’s centennial events will continue in community liturgical, spiritual, catechetical, and social events that will conclude on May 17.
William Mohr is a retired attorney and spiritual director at the Church of the Ascension.