Ascension Day
May 9, Thursday
Biblical basis
The event of the Ascension is described in the New Testament, in particular in the Gospel of Luke (24:50-53) and the Acts of the Apostles (1:9-11). After the resurrection, Jesus appeared to his disciples for 40 days, taught them, strengthened their faith and gave instructions. On the day of the Ascension, He gathered his disciples on the Mount of Olives near Jerusalem, where He blessed them, and, having ascended into heaven, disappeared from their sight. The angels told the apostles that Christ would return in the same way as He ascended into heaven.
Holiday Traditions
Ascension of the Lord is celebrated on the 40th day after Easter, which makes this holiday moveable. It always falls on Thursday.
Divine Services. On this day, solemn liturgies and prayers are held in churches. In Orthodox churches, excerpts from the Gospel describing the event of the Ascension are read, and special prayers are said. In the Catholic Church, solemn masses are also held, at which sublime hymns are proclaimed.
Traditions among the people. In some countries and cultures, folk customs associated with the Ascension have been preserved. For example, in some regions it was customary to decorate houses and churches with greenery and flowers, which symbolized joy and renewal.
Preparation for Pentecost. Ascension also opens the period of waiting for Pentecost - the day when the Holy Spirit descended on the apostles. This is a 10-day period of prayer and reflection on the meaning of the descent of the Holy Spirit.
Ascension Day is a feast that highlights important aspects of the Christian faith: Jesus' victory over death, His glorious ascension into heaven, and the hope of His second coming. This day fills Christians with faith in eternal life and the promise of the Holy Spirit, who sustains and guides the Church in her mission.
Ascension Day in other years
Ascension Day in other countries
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