Episcopal Church Foundation Vestry Papers - for leading congregations

The stores are closed today.

On my way to a staff retreat in the verdant hills of southern Ohio, I won't be able to make my usual stop at the Amish store to purchase some amazing cheeses and fresh-baked bread.

Today is the feast of Ascension, a time to remember Jesus’ ascension into heaven. Most of us will carry on with our daily obligations. But the Amish shutter their doors in observance of the special day.

Several years ago, I worked as a newspaper reporter in northern Indiana, near a large population of Amish. I spent a lot of time with different Amish families and the area bishops. As with any group, the more time I spent with them, the more three-dimensional and dynamic they became. No longer were they a quaint reminder of olden days.

The Amish face inter-family conflict, economic hardships, and unruly teenagers – just like us (the “English,” as we’re called by the Amish). In fact, the county sheriff makes several arrests each year for drunken (buggy) driving. These are mostly Amish teens experimenting with alcohol during rumspringa or the “running around time” after they turn 16. This is a time for experimentation and exploration before the teens decide whether to be baptized in the Amish tradition. 

(An aside: I asked the sheriff how he could tell if the buggy driver was drunk. In addition to the weaving, sometimes the drivers will simply pass out, allowing the horses to follow the path home. But the horses don’t know to stop when they reach an intersection.) 

I share this story as a reminder that the Amish aren't holier-than-thou or sinless saints who can pray the day away without blinking. They are faithful people who, like us, face every-day struggles -- and who, like all of us, must decide day after day to renew their commitment to living out the Gospel. 

The first time I encountered a closed shop on Ascension Day was an annoyance. I had planned to bring fresh bread to the office. Over the years, I’ve come to appreciate that handwritten sign on the door of the Amish shop: “Closed in Observance of the Ascension of Our Lord.” 

When you put it that way, it seems none of us should be working. The Amish have it right: this is a day to close up shop and to celebrate the risen Christ. 

I wonder: How does your congregation celebrate Ascension Day? What about other feast days? Do you embrace them or do you think they’re a dusty and out-of-date tradition?

I’m anxious to hear your thoughts.