BIAY

Dear Friends,
Ascension is about to embark on a new adventure — one that stretches from the very first words of Genesis to the final promises of Revelation.

Over the next fifteen months, our entire church community will journey through the Bible together, reading it chronologically as one grand, unfolding story. This intentional walk through Scripture will shape our worship, our conversations, our spiritual growth — and even our calendar.

At the turning of each season, we’ll pause for a restoration day — a sacred space to reflect on what God has been saying and to prepare our hearts for what’s ahead.

But we don’t believe this journey is meant to be walked alone. In fact, we’re convinced it becomes most meaningful when it’s shared with friends, neighbors, family, and co-workers, whether or not they’ve ever set foot inside a church before.

That’s where you come in. Enclosed is a postcard you can use to invite someone to join you—someone who might be looking for hope, for purpose, or just for a reason to turn the page.

Join us this fall as we begin reading the Bible together as a community. We’re calling it a “Bible In A Year-ish” journey… because grace leaves room for real life.

Let’s take this adventure together,
Pastor Scott Hawkins

ADDITIONAL DETAILS

What should I expect over the next Year-ish?
We’ve divided the journey into five distinct seasons, each with its own theme and focus. With each season, we’ll also meditate on a portion of Psalm 32, allowing this single psalm to shape our thoughts as we engage the whole of Scripture.

• Season 1: “Create” begins September 2, 2025.
• Season 2: “Prepare” begins December 2, 2025.
• Season 3: “Renew” begins March 3, 2026.
• Season 4: “Rest” begins June 2, 2026.
• Season 5: “Harvest” begins September 1, 2026.

What are Restoration Days?
At the end of each season, we’ll gather for a one-day retreat that offers time to pause, reflect, and prepare for the next leg of the journey through Scripture. Each retreat will include guided reflection, a summary of the season’s teaching, time for prayer and rest, group discussion and connection, and a beautiful setting to breathe and listen. The cost for each retreat is $55, but scholarships are available. Restoration days will be held at Serra Retreat Center in Malibu on the following Mondays:

• December 1, 2025
• March 2, 2026
• June 1, 2026
• September 14, 2026

Won’t it be hard to read the whole Bible?
In one word: Yes. We know that life happens, and it may be difficult to read some days. That’s why we have intentionally not assigned any readings on Sundays or major holidays. You can also choose to skip the supplemental features that explain context and culture.

What Bible are we using?
We’ll be reading from the NIV Chronological Study Bible, which arranges Scripture in historical order to help make sense of the story as it unfolds. It’s great for new readers and offers a fresh perspective for longtime Bible students. Copies are available at church for a suggested donation of $30, or feel free to purchase your own copy from online booksellers (Amazon, ChristianBook).

How will I know what to read?
The NIV Chronological Study Bible already has a daily reading plan that assumes the reader will begin their journey on January 1, so we have adapted this calendar for our purposes. Each month, we will provide you with a calendar that tells you which “reading day” corresponds to each calendar day. Most readings begin with a brief historical background. 

Besides Sunday services, how can I participate in this journey?
You can follow along on YouTube, Facebook, and Instagram. We encourage you to like, follow, and check back frequently.