Throughout October, Ascension associates came together to celebrate the ministry’s founding legacy, strengthen connections with colleagues and communities, and put personal well-being at the forefront.
Guided by the theme Serve Boldly, this year’s Mission Month brought Ascension’s Mission, Vision, and Values to life through reflection, wellness activities, and community events. From honoring the historic Sponsors who shaped the ministry to recognizing the everyday actions that make a difference, associates celebrated the people and purpose behind Ascension’s healing ministry.
Reflecting on our shared Mission
Ascension’s historic Sponsors have shaped the ministry’s commitment to serving others for generations. During Mission Month, Nourish sessions invited associates to explore the stories of the Daughters of Charity, Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondelet, Sisters of St. Joseph of Nazareth, Sisters of the Sorrowful Mother, and Alexian Brothers.
These bite-sized Formation experiences connected the Sponsors’ examples of courage, innovation, and service to the care Ascension provides today. They also offered associates a meaningful pause in the workday to reconnect with their purpose and one another.
Huddle cards and video reflections from associates across the ministry provided additional opportunities to find inspiration, share perspectives, and bring bold service into everyday work.
Connecting through well-being
The 2026 Ascension 5K invited associates to make time for their well-being while connecting with colleagues, family, and friends. Whether walking, running, biking, swimming, or choosing another activity, participants could make the 5K their own.
The celebration continues with the Community Finish Line, Oct. 30 through Nov. 1, bringing associates together to recognize participation and celebrate the many ways they prioritize well-being.
Our Mission in action
Mission Month also shines a light on the many ways associates bring Ascension’s Mission to life through community service, investments in healthcare, and ideas that help shape the future of care. Across our ministry, associates found meaningful ways to Serve Boldly. Here are just a few examples:
In Middle Tennessee, teams blessed therapy dogs in honor of the Feast of St. Francis and joined Blessing of the Hands ceremonies across 15 medical clinics.
At St.Vincent’s in Florida, associates made commitments to live out their Mission during an in-person star activation and gathered for a Formation Program Reunion event.
In Wisconsin, associates at Elmbrook Hospital collected 362 clothing items for a local shelter and volunteered to serve meals to shelter guests.
Clinical Innovation Tournament: Associates submitted ideas to address healthcare challenges and explore potential ways to improve care for patients and families. Winners will have their projects sponsored into implementation.
Mission Month offers a dedicated opportunity to celebrate the people, shared purpose, and everyday actions that sustain Ascension’s healing ministry. While October creates space for reflection, celebration, and connection, the Mission continues throughout the year in the ways associates care for patients, support one another, and serve their communities.
