Hey there,
We’re fascinated with rising up. Maybe it’s because it’s so easy to get knocked down.
Coach Vince Lombardi famously said,“It’s not whether you get knocked down, it’s whether you get up.”
We love a good Cinderella story and root for the underdog.
We all know the ancient story of the phoenix that rises from the ashes. It reminds us that it’s possible to come back even stronger after failure.
Jesus Christ provides the ultimate example for us with His resurrection and His ascension into heaven.
This week we’ll celebrate His ultimate comeback story with the Solemnity of the Ascension of the Lord. Some parishes will celebrate it on Thursday, with most celebrating it on Sunday. It is a Holy Day of Obligation so check with your church to see when your celebration is.
This week’s issue of Genuflect strives to help us appreciate Jesus’ ascension more. We look at what happened and what it means, why it happened, what Pope Francis wants us to know about it, why Jesus is at God’s right hand, how He’s always with us even though He’s no longer on earth, how the Ascension differs from Mary’s Assumption, and how we can meditate on the Ascension.
We have lots of inspiring stories to keep us motivated in life, but none are as important as that of our Lord who overcame death and took His place in heaven … providing the ultimate motivation for our afterlife.
Keep Believing-
Katy Barrilleaux
Founding Editor, Genuflect
P.S. May is also a popular month for First Communions. If you need a special gift, take a look at these First Communion gift ideas for a girl or a boy.
genuflect: sponsor
genuflect: resources
What is The Ascension?
The Ascension of Jesus is a fairly well known event that we mention in the Creed at Mass, and we celebrate with a Holy Day of Obligation each year. If you’re in need of a quick refresher as to just what it entailed, check out this brief overview.
What Is The Ascension? | Busted Halo
The Meaning of The Ascension
After His resurrection, Jesus spent 40 days on the earth. And then he ascended into heaven, never to be seen again. Here’s the significance of that event and why it should bring us all great hope.
Jesus Ascended Into Heaven | Catholic Education
Why Ascend?
Have you ever wondered why Jesus ascended into heaven? Why didn’t he just stay with us on earth forever … teaching, blessing, performing miracles. The Catechism of the Council of Trent provides the answer.
Why The Ascension? | The American Catholic
Reflections on The Ascension
You may be like Cecily Lowe and never really stopped to consider the Ascension of Jesus that much. His earthly mission was done so he returned home. It’s easy enough to understand. But Miss Lowe took a closer look into this solemnity. And thank goodness she did!
Reflections on The Ascension | Catholic Stand
Ascension According to Pope Francis
“Whether your diocese celebrates the Ascension of Christ on Thursday or Sunday, the time is upon us. In 2013, Pope Francis gave an explanation of the Ascension, what it means, and how it affects our lives. Here are 7 things he wants you to know.”
7 Things Pope Francis Wants You to Know About Jesus’ Ascension | National Catholic Register
God’s Right Hand
We say it every Sunday: “He ascended into heaven and is seated at the right hand of the Father.” How can Jesus be at the right hand of God? Does that mean God has a form? Here’s what it means.
What Is Meant by “God’s Right Hand” | Catholic Answers
Always With us
Jesus ascended into heaven, and yet we are taught He is always with us. How is this possible? Here are 7 ways.
Seven Ways God Is Always With Us | Catholic Exchange
Meditating on Jesus’ Ascension
One way to meditate more deeply on the Ascension of Jesus is to use Fr. John Procter’s method while praying the Rosary. He breaks down the events into bite-sized pieces we can add to our Rosary prayer to focus our attention more deeply. Give this a try next time you’re praying the Rosary.
A Brief And Simple Way to Meditate on Jesus’ Ascension | Aleteia
Ascension vs. Assumption
Jesus was not the only one who went to heaven body and soul. We also celebrate Mary, but for the Blessed Virgin, we refer to her Assumption. So what’s the difference between the Ascension of Jesus and the Assumption of Mary? Here’s what you need to know.
Why Was Mary “Assumed” While Jesus “Ascended”? The Answer Matters | ChurchPOP
About Holy Days
The Ascension of Jesus is one of our Holy Days of Obligation, meaning we are obligated to go to Mass on this day. Here’s a list of each of these days and how they were established.
Where Are The Holy Days of Obligation in The Bible? | Busted Halo
genuflect: prayer
Pray The Novena to The Holy Spirit
On May 23rd we will celebrate Pentecost, when the Holy Spirit descended on the Apostles and their followers. It marks the beginning of their public ministry, which we continue today! In preparation, begin praying the Novena to the Holy Spirit on May 14th.
genuflect: bonus
Heaven on Earth Inspiration
Click below to download this week’s free Feast of the Ascension inspirational wallpaper for your desktop and your phone.
Download for Desktop Download for Phone
Visit the site to download one of our previous wallpapers
genuflect: sharing
Please use these buttons to share this issue of Genuflect with your friends, family, and followers who may be interested. Thank you!
Photo by Willian Justen de Vasconcellos on Unsplash
