Ascension Day is one of the most significant events in the Christian calendar. It is celebrated on the 40th day of Easter, which marks the day that Jesus Christ ascended into heaven. This article is a brief overview of the history, significance, and details of how the feast of the ascension is celebrated around the world.
What is Ascension Day?
Ascension Day is the celebration of Jesus Christ’s ascension into heaven. According to the New Testament, forty days after His resurrection, Jesus ascended to heaven from the Mount of Olives in the presence of his disciples. The event is significant because it marks the end of Christ’s earthly ministry and the start of His heavenly one.
History of Ascension Day
The history of the day Jesus ascended to heaven can be traced back to the early Christian church, where it was celebrated as one of the major events in the Christian calendar. The apostles of Jesus Christ were the first to witness the event of His ascension into heaven. Since then, it has been celebrated with respect and devotion by Christians across the globe.
Why is it Celebrated?
Ascension Day is celebrated to honour the ascension of Jesus Christ into heaven. It is believed that He ascended into heaven to take His rightful place at the right hand of God. The day is also associated with the resurrection of Christ, and it reflects the Christian belief that death is not the end but the beginning of eternal life.
How is it Celebrated?
Ascension Day is observed as a public holiday in many countries around the world. Christians usually attend church services on this day to reflect on the significance of the event and give thanks for the gift of eternal life.
When is Ascension Day in 2023?
Ascension Day always falls on a Thursday, forty days after Easter Sunday. In 2023, this commemoration day will be on the 18th of May.
Facts About Ascension Day
The ascension of Jesus Christ into heaven is one of the most significant events in the Christian faith. Here are some facts about Ascension Day:
The Ascension of Jesus Christ
The ascension of Jesus Christ marks the end of his earthly ministry and the start of his heavenly one. It is an event that is celebrated with respect and devotion by Christians all over the world.
The Disciples Witness
The disciples of Jesus Christ were witnesses to his ascension into heaven. It is believed that he ascended to heaven in their presence, and they were left staring up into the sky after he was gone.
The Mount of Olives
The Mount of Olives is the site where Jesus Christ ascended into heaven. According to the New Testament, he told his disciples to wait in Jerusalem until they received the Holy Spirit.
Ascension Day Celebrations
The feast of the ascension of Jesus Christ is celebrated in various ways by Christians around the world. Here are some of the common ways it is celebrated:
Pentecost
Pentecost is a celebration that is closely linked to the day. It is celebrated ten days after the ascension and marks the day when the Holy Spirit descended upon the apostles of Jesus Christ.
The Role of the Holy Spirit
The Holy Spirit is seen as playing a significant role in the ascension of Jesus Christ. It is believed that he ascended into heaven to take his rightful place at the right hand of God and that the Holy Spirit is the one who guides the church in his absence.
Easter Sunday and Good Friday
This day is closely linked with Easter Sunday and Good Friday, which are two of the most significant events in the Christian faith. Easter Sunday is celebrated as the day of Christ’s resurrection, while Good Friday marks the day of his crucifixion.
Ascension Day around the World
This 40th day after Easter commemoration is celebrated in different ways around the world. Here are some of the common ways it is observed:
Countries that Observe Ascension Day as a Public Holiday
Many countries around the world observe the day as a public holiday. These include France, Germany, the Netherlands, and Sweden, among others.
Ascension Day Observance in Indonesia
In Indonesia, it is observed as a national holiday and is known as ‘Hari Kenaikan Yesus Kristus.’ It is celebrated with church services and other local traditions.
How Christians Celebrate Ascension Day
Christians celebrate the day by attending church services, reflecting on the significance of the event, and giving thanks for the gift of eternal life. Some churches also organize processions and other events to mark the day.
FAQ:
Q: What is Ascension Day and when is it celebrated?
A: Ascension Day is a Christian holiday that commemorates Jesus Christ’s ascension into heaven. It is celebrated 39 days after Easter Sunday, which means it falls on a Thursday.
Q: Why is it significant?
A: The day marks the end of the Easter season and it commemorates Jesus Christ’s return to heaven after he met with his disciples following his resurrection. According to the New Testament in the Bible, Jesus Christ ascended to heaven on the 40th day after Easter.
Q: What is the history behind it?
A: Its history can be traced back to the day when Jesus Christ left his disciples for the last time and ascended into heaven. The day is associated with a number of religious rituals and hymns that celebrate the risen Christ.
Q: Is Ascension Day a public holiday?
A: Yes, in many countries around the world, including Indonesia, Ascension Day is a public holiday.
Q: How is Ascension Day observed?
A: Many Christians observe the day by attending church services and reflecting on the significance of this holy day. It is also common for families to spend time together and celebrate the day as a time of joy and thanksgiving.
Q: Can people work on Ascension Day?
A: In some countries, such as Indonesia, the holy day is a public holiday, which means many businesses and government offices are closed. However, in other countries, people may need to work on this day, depending on where they live.
Q: Is Ascension Day only celebrated in Western churches?
A: No, it is celebrated by Christians all around the world, regardless of their denomination or location.
Q: How does Ascension Day relate to Easter?
A: The day is related to Easter because it marks the end of the Easter season, which begins on Holy Thursday and ends on Easter Sunday.
For more knowledge about things to commemorate in Indonesia, check out the other Indonesia Guide articles from Social Expat!
