How Many Days Until Ascension Day?
Ascension Day 2025 is on Thursday, May 29, 2025.
(Often observed on Sunday, Sunday, June 1)
About Ascension Day
Ascension Day (also known as the Feast of the Ascension or Holy Thursday) is a significant Christian feast commemorating the bodily ascension of Jesus Christ into heaven. It is traditionally celebrated on the 40th day after Easter Sunday (counting Easter itself), which always falls on a Thursday. However, in many places, its observance is transferred to the following Sunday.
The Event of the Ascension (Acts 1:1-11)
The primary biblical account is found in the Acts of the Apostles. After his resurrection, Jesus appeared to his disciples over a period of 40 days, teaching them about the Kingdom of God. On the 40th day, he led them out to the Mount of Olives near Bethany. There, he commissioned them to be his witnesses, promised the coming of the Holy Spirit, and then:
Lifted Up
While he was blessing them, Jesus was lifted up from the ground before their eyes.
Hidden by a Cloud
A cloud received him out of their sight, symbolizing the divine presence and mystery.
Angelic Message
As the disciples gazed into heaven, two angels appeared and assured them that Jesus would return in the same way he had ascended.
Promise of the Spirit
Before ascending, Jesus instructed the disciples to wait in Jerusalem for the promised Holy Spirit, who would empower them for ministry (fulfilled at Pentecost).
Theological Significance
The Ascension holds deep theological meaning:
- Christ's Exaltation: It marks the culmination of Jesus' earthly work and his glorification, taking his place at the right hand of God the Father in heaven.
- Kingly Rule: Signifies the beginning of Christ's reign as King over all creation from heaven.
- Opening Heaven: Jesus' ascension opens the way for humanity to enter into God's presence.
- Intercession: Christ continues his work from heaven, interceding for believers before the Father.
- Foundation for Pentecost: The Ascension prepares for the sending of the Holy Spirit upon the Church.
- Hope of Return: It reinforces the promise of Christ's eventual return in glory.
How Ascension Day is Observed
Special Church Services
Services focus on the biblical accounts of the Ascension, Christ's exaltation, and the mission given to the Church. White or gold, symbolizing glory and divinity, are the liturgical colors.
Scripture Readings
Key readings often include Acts 1:1-11, Ephesians 1:15-23 (Christ seated at God's right hand), and parts of the Gospels mentioning the Ascension (Luke 24:50-53, Mark 16:19).
Extinguishing the Paschal Candle
In some traditions, the large Paschal (Easter) candle, lit throughout the Easter season, is extinguished after the Gospel reading on Ascension Day, symbolizing Christ's departure from earth.
Focus on Mission
The day emphasizes the Great Commission – the call for Christians to spread the Gospel throughout the world.
Holy Day of Obligation / Public Holiday
In some denominations and countries, Ascension Day is a Holy Day of Obligation (requiring church attendance) and may be a public holiday.
Novena to the Holy Spirit
The period between Ascension Thursday and Pentecost Sunday is often observed as a time of focused prayer (a novena) for the coming of the Holy Spirit.
Ascension Day marks the end of Jesus' post-Resurrection appearances and precedes Pentecost by ten days.