Our journey began with a small, dedicated group of believers and has grown into a vibrant, historic parish serving the Paradise Valley community.

1963 – 1965: Humble Beginnings

• First Service: Held on Christmas Eve, 1963, as the newest mission of the Diocese of Arizona.
• Original Venue: A small group of 50 people gathered in an abandoned movie and television studio on N. 40th Street.
• Rapid Growth: An overflow crowd of 273 people packed the first service, followed by 103 worshippers on Christmas Day.
• Parish Status: Led by our first Vicar (and later first Rector), The Reverend Canon George McNeill Ray, the mission officially achieved parish status by the end of 1965.

1966 – 1988: Building Our Home

In 1966, The Reverend Dan J. Gerrard (“Padre”) became our second Rector, serving faithfully for 22 years. During his tenure, the parish laid permanent roots.

• The Land: Acquired 8.5 acres in Paradise Valley, half of which was a generous gift from the Margaret (“Peggy”) Johnson Goldwater Trust.
• The Design: Renowned architect Bennie Gonzales was hired to design the entire future campus.
• Craig Hall: Dedicated on November 19, 1967, serving as a temporary worship area, office space, and classrooms.
• The Main Church: Consecrated and dedicated on Sunday, February 23, 1975.
• The Memorial Garden: Established in 1980 through private funding, creating a sacred space that will operate in perpetuity.

1989 – 2007: Expansion & Education

Our third Rector, The Reverend Dr. Harvey G. (“Jerry”) Cook (1989–1998), who also served as a U.S. Navy Captain and chaplain reservist, led the next phase of campus growth.

• Parish Hall: Dedicated on April 6, 1997.

The Reverend Kenneth J. G. Semon became our fourth Rector in 1999, overseeing the final major developments of our physical campus.

• Campus Upgrades: Built the Canon Dan Gerrard Christian Education Center, Ascension Chapel for children, a bookstore, a library, and renovated the church interior.
• Christ Church School: Opened in September 2003 as a preschool and has flourished into a thriving preschool and elementary school.

2007 – 2021: Leadership & Legacy

CCA has been blessed to serve as a stepping stone for leaders called to national ministries within the Episcopal Church.

• The Reverend Phillip A. Jackson (5th Rector, 2007–2014): Led the parish for seven years before eventually being called to serve as the Rector of the historic Trinity Church Wall Street in New York City.
• The Reverend Daniel P. Richards (6th Rector, 2015–2021): Returned to his ordination roots in Arizona to serve CCA with his family until being called to become the 9th Bishop of the Diocese of Upper South Carolina.

2023 – Present: A New Era and Historic Recognition

In August 2023, The Reverend Rodney S. Hurst answered the call to become our 7th Rector.

• About Fr. Rod: Originally from the Pacific Northwest and an alumnus of Nashotah House Episcopal Seminary, Fr. Rod brings 14 years of rector experience from the Diocese of the Rio Grande, alongside a background in K-5 private school leadership and financial management.
• A Local Landmark: In 2026, Christ Church of the Ascension was officially recognized as a Historical Property by the Town of Paradise Valley.

Join Our Community Today

Today, Christ Church of the Ascension is a bustling, welcoming community anchored in the Episcopal tradition. We offer a diverse array of activities for all ages, including:

• Choirs and musical programs
• Bible studies and spiritual formation
• Book clubs and community dinners
• Vacation Bible School and youth camping trips
• Local and global outreach opportunities

Friends, neighbors, and newcomers are sincerely welcome every day of the week. Come worship with us!