The congregation of the Ascension is holding an auction of art, a benefit for Syrian newcomers who will soon be arriving in Durham. Silent auction bids are ongoing, culminating at an evening of Wine and Cheese at the Ascension on Friday October 19th.
The Auction
Up for auction are four pieces of art: two large abstract acrylic paintings, a sculpture and a reduction linoleum print. We are very grateful to our artists, Michael Black, Lynne McIlvride and Wynn Walters for their generous donations. These art pieces are available for viewing in the historic Church of the Ascension sanctuary. Ascension is at 266 North St, at the corner of John St. in downtown Port Perry.
Wine and Cheese
The auction will culminate in an evening Wine and Cheese, and everyone is invited. Beginning at 7:00 pm on Friday, October 19th, the public is welcome to join us at the Ascension. Enjoy a glass of wine and selection of fine cheeses as you peruse the art and consider making a bid on one of these beautiful pieces before the auction closes around 9:00 pm. There will also be an Art raffle as well. Proceeds from the auction will be given to the sponsorship of a new Syrian family arriving soon in Whitby. Please bring cash or cheque.
The Benefactees
A Syrian family of 7 were recently sponsored by five churches in Durham and arrived to begin a new life in Whitby. Originally the father was a farmer with his own olive groves, but due to the conflict he chose to uproot his family and flee to Turkey where he worked in factories to provide for his children. When their sponsorship went through, the eldest daughter in the family stayed behind with her husband and child. They are currently living in a refugee camp, in a container, with her husbands family of 5 and just had another daughter born to them. The plan is that this family of four will be brought to Whitby to reunite with the others under this new sponsorship bid.
Auction proceeds will be given to the sponsorship of this new Syrian family arriving in Whitby. Seven Durham region entities (churches, mosque) are working together to make this happen. They now are waiting for the UN stamp of approval to complete the refugee process. Ascension is helping to raise funds through this art auction, and used book table sales.
For more information about this or any other outreach initiative please contact the Ascension office at 905-985-7278.