Catholics commemorate the Ascension as the ending of Jesus’ earthly ministry and the beginning of his reign in Heaven. This celebration begins our preparation for the outpouring of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost.
The Catechism of the Catholic Church states,
“Jesus’ final apparition ends with the irreversible entry of his humanity into divine glory, symbolized by the cloud and by heaven, where he is seated from that time forward at God’s right hand.” (CCC, 659)
Here are four things to remember about the Ascension of Jesus into Heaven, followed by some of our favorite prayers to mark the occasion:
1) What happened in the Ascension?
Marks the moment Jesus returned to His Father in Heaven and took His place at the right hand of God.
2) What is the Bible verse for the Ascension?
Recorded in scripture (Acts 1:9-11)
3) What can we learn from the Ascension?
Reminds us that our ultimate goal as Christians is to be with God in Heaven and that Jesus will come again.
4) When did the Ascension of Jesus happen?
Jesus ascended into Heaven 40 days after Easter and nine days before Pentecost.
Ascension Day Prayer
Let us Pray:
Dear Lord Jesus Christ,
Right before your Ascension into heaven,
you told your apostles to be His witnesses
to the ends of the earth upon receiving the Holy Spirit.
May I be similarly inspired to spread your Gospel message in word and deed, according to your will for me.
And may I do so prudently and joyfully,
with your help, your guidance, and your grace!
And remembering this glorious event,
help me to seek what is above, Heaven,
where you are seated at the right hand of God the Father!
Amen.
Prayer Source: Our Catholic Prayers
And the Ascension novena prayer:
Jesus, I honor You on the feast of Your Ascension into heaven. I rejoice with all my heart at the glory into which You entered to reign as King of heaven and earth. When the struggle of this life is over, give me the grace to share Your joy and triumph in heaven for all eternity.
I believe that You entered into Your glorious Kingdom to prepare a place for me, for You promised to come again to take me to Yourself. Grant that I may seek only the joys of Your friendship and love, so that I may deserve to be united with You in heaven.
In the hour of my own homecoming, when I appear before Your Father to give an account of my life on earth, have mercy on me.
Jesus, in Your love for me You have brought me from evil to good and from misery to happiness. Give me the grace to rise above my human weakness. May Your Humanity give me courage in my weakness and free me from my sins.
Through Your grace, give me the courage of perseverance for You have called and justified me by faith. May I hold fast to the life You have given me and come to the eternal gifts You promised.
You love me, dear Jesus. Help me to love You in return. I ask You to grant this special favor:
(Mention your request).
By Your unceasing care, guide my steps toward the life of glory You have prepared for those who love You. Make me grow in holiness and thank You by a life of faithful service.
Amen.