Ascension Day
Celebrated forty days after Easter, marking Jesus being taken up into heaven.
Significance
Forty days after the resurrection, Jesus was taken up into heaven in the presence of his disciples, with the promise that he would return. The Ascension declares that Jesus reigns, that his work on earth was complete, and that he sent his followers out to be his witnesses to the ends of the earth in the power of the Holy Spirit. It is the hinge between the resurrection and Pentecost.
Scripture
Acts 1:9“After he said this, he was taken up before their very eyes, and a cloud hid him from their sight.”
How It Is Observed
Ascension Day falls on a Thursday and is marked by special services in many liturgical churches. Readings focus on the final words of Jesus and the commissioning of the disciples.
Where It Falls in the Christian Year
Ascension Day is one thread in the wider rhythm of the church year. See how it sits alongside the other feasts on the full Christian holiday calendar, or read more about Reformation Day and Christ the King. To understand how these observances shaped the nation, visit our Faith & America hub, and keep the Christian glossary close for any unfamiliar terms.
Other Christian Holidays
Reformation Day commemorates Martin Luther's 1517 posting of the Ninety Five Theses, the spark that ignited the Protestant Reformation.
Learn moreChrist the King closes the liturgical year by proclaiming Jesus Christ as sovereign ruler over all creation.
Learn moreThe Transfiguration recalls the moment Jesus's appearance was transformed with divine glory before three of his disciples on a mountain.
Learn moreHoly Saturday is the solemn day of waiting between Jesus's death on Good Friday and his resurrection on Easter Sunday.
Learn more