We have joyfully gathered and served the local community for over 80 years.

Founded in 1936, Ascension Lutheran Church is located in the historic community of Riverside, Illinois. We are located across the street from bustling Ames School. We are a community of people who are united in our belief in God's presence in our lives and our commitment to reach out in love to the people in our congregation, our neighborhoods, and the world beyond.

Ascension is part of the larger church family known as the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) and a member of the ELCA's Metropolitan Chicago Synod.

Ascension is a Reconciling in Christ congregation, which means that we officially adopted a public statement of welcome for people of all sexual orientations and gender identities.

our welcome statement

Ascension Lutheran Church is a community of faith that deeply values relationship and human connection. As such, we feel called to a ministry of hospitality, learning to take seriously the wide-netted welcome that our gift of hospitality requires...

...In response to God’s boundless love for us and striving to model Christ’s life and ministry of inclusion, we affirm the beautiful diversity of God’s human creation. We welcome and affirm everyone regardless of age, race or culture, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or relationship status. In doing so, we strive to support one another in being our true selves and fulfilling God’s purpose for our lives...

Read our full statement here.