The UK movement, which grew from French roots, was inspired, from the first translation of the French "Vie Montante" handbook in 1979, to enable those in later life to meet, enjoy one another's friendship, to value their wisdom and knowledge and to spiritually nourish them.
The main 3 aims of the movement, Mission, Spirituality and Friendship are outlined below and on their relevant pages:
The Ascent is for all retired people regardless of age, ability, culture, and circumstances..Our whole lives, our experiences, talents, interests are a means of enriching the group meetings and beyond, as well as comforting the sick, helping the lonely and those without faith. The movement encourages members to consider ways to put their experiences and skills to good use. The friendship within groups is much valued and cherished by the members.
An Ascent group meeting celebrates both our mutual faith and the sharing of common experiences of life. It encourages friendship between retired men and women, stimulates thoughts and discussion and enables them to reflect on the purpose of their life. We find that this strengthened spitituality helps provide our members with great peace and happiness.
The Christian friendship within the group is something very precious that builds as members share the Word of God and love of God pray and listen to each others experiences, their joys and sorrows, real bonds of friendship are formed. It is not just a Christian prayer group but far more. By sharing the love of God members share their love for one another. Through discussion and listening, anxieties can be dispelled and joy kindled in the heart.
The development of the Ascent Movement in the United Kingdom is a sign of vitality in the Church, which is made up of all kinds of people and is for all peoples. Within the Church there are many groupings and it is right that each group be recognised, be helped and be able to contribute to the Church. As more and more men and women retire, and on average we are all living longer, there is an increasing number of retired, elderly, senior citizens, who have their own needs, who can support one another and who have a wealth of experience to offer all. They also need help to develop their praying in line with their state of life and look for guidance and help. The Ascent Movement offers to assist them to make their contribution and advance in the knowledge and love of God. May God bless you all Bishop Howard Tripp of Southwark in his foreword to the 1989 Ascent handbook.
Friendship