2026 SESSION
ENROLLED
HOUSE RESOLUTION NO. 247
Commending Church of the Ascension.
Agreed to by the House of Delegates, March 9, 2026
WHEREAS, for more than 50 years, Church of the Ascension in Virginia Beach has provided its congregation with uplifting spiritual guidance, joyful occasions for worship and fellowship, and meaningful opportunities for charitable outreach; and
WHEREAS, Church of the Ascension was founded in the Kempsville area of Virginia Beach in 1972 by Father Robert French and under the direction of Bishop Russell; and
WHEREAS, in addition to Father French, Church of the Ascension has been led by a distinguished line of pastors, including Father William Dale, Father James Parke, Father Charles Breindel, and Father Daniel Malingumu, the church's current pastor; and
WHEREAS, Church of the Ascension promotes health and well-being in the Virginia Beach community by providing a food pantry and financial assistance to individuals and families in need; and
WHEREAS, as a testament to the church's commitment to inclusivity, Church of the Ascension welcomed Congregation Beth Chaverim in Virginia Beach to share its worship space from 1985 to 1995; and
WHEREAS, Church of the Ascension has made an impact globally through its partnership with the St. Ludovick Parish in Tanzania, Africa; and