Ascension Thursday, observed on May 9, 2024, marks a significant celebration in the liturgical calendar for Catholics around the world.
This day commemorates the bodily Ascension of Jesus Christ into heaven, which occurred 40 days after his Resurrection on Easter Sunday. This event is vividly described in the New Testament, where Jesus is taken up from his disciples into heaven.
"When he had said this, as they were looking on, he was lifted up, and a cloud took him from their sight. While they were looking intently at the sky as he was going, suddenly two men dressed in white garments stood beside them. They said, “Men of Galilee, why are you standing there looking at the sky? This Jesus who has been taken up from you into heaven will return in the same way as you have seen him going into heaven " (Acts 1:9-11).
Ascension Thursday is not only a day of reflection and celebration, but also a Holy Day of Obligation. This designation means that all Catholics are required to participate in Mass, unless excused for a serious reason such as illness or substantial hardship. The Ascension marks the conclusion of Jesus' earthly ministry and signifies the beginning of His sovereign rule from His heavenly throne. It is a day for renewing faith, participating in the sacraments, and reflecting on His promise to remain with humanity always, until the end of time.
By Andrea DePaola