In 1999 the bishops of the United States transferred the celebration of Our Lord’s Ascension to Sunday.
The Scripture readings all revolve around the great mystery of faith that is at the heart of the Ascension: Jesus’ return to heaven signals the start of the Church’s mission to all the world.
Acts 1:1-11
The First Reading destroys the naïve expectation of the disciples that the Lord would employ his authority on earth to set up a worldly reign with all of them receiving privileged positions. Something far better is intended for them: they are to advance God’s Kingdom and will be equipped for mission by the power of the Holy Spirit.
Mark 16:15-20
The Gospel Reading reports that after the Ascension of Our Lord, the disciples did exactly as they were told. They boldly went forth and preached the Gospel of Christ Jesus everywhere. The continuing presence of Jesus is experienced in the preaching and sacramental life of the Christian Church. Although Jesus may no longer be present to us in the same way when He walk the earth, our Blessed Lord continues to be with us and to work with us.
