Ascension Thursday

Today, May 13th, 2021 is Ascension Thursday and commemorates Jesus Christ’s ascension into heaven, exactly 40 the day after his resurrection. On the 40th day of the resurrection, Jesus and his disciples went to Mount Olive. Jesus then promised his disciples, that they would receive the Holy Spirit and asked them to wait in Jerusalem until the Spirit arrived. 

Ascension Thursday is quite meaningful to Christians as it signifies the end of Jesus Christ’s work on earth and allowed him to prepare a place for followers in heaven. On Ascension Thursday and the days to follow, Catholics are asking for God’s mercy. In many Churches there may be a procession of torches or they may use banners to symbolize Christ’s journey to Mount Olive, his entry into heaven, and an all-night vigil. 

Below is one of the Gospel readings you might hear or have heard on Ascension Thursday:
 

Gospel – Luke 24:46-53 

46 Jesus said to his disciples: “Thus it is written that the Christ would suffer and rise from the dead on the third day

47 and that repentance, for the forgiveness of sins, would be preached in his name to all the nations, beginning from Jerusalem.

48 You are witnesses of these things.

49 And behold I am sending the promise of my Father upon you, but stay in the city until you are clothed with power from on high.”

50 Then he led them out as far as Bethany, raised his hands, and blessed them.

51 As he blessed them, he parted from them and was taken up to heaven.

52 They did him homage and then returned to Jerusalem with great joy,

53 and they were continually in the temple praising God.