The Ascension of the Lord Year A

Traditionally the Ascension of Our Lord was held 40 days after Easter, falling on a Thursday. However in most dioceses in the United States, the observance of the Solemnity of the Ascension of the Lord Year A is moved to the following Sunday, superseding the 7th Sunday of Easter.

• First Reading: Acts 1:1-11 – Luke recounts the events that occurred between Jesus’ resurrection and his ascension. Jesus appeared to his disciples, gave them instructions and promises, and was taken up into heaven while they watched.
• Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 47 – A psalm of praise and exaltation to God as the king over all the earth. It describes God ascending to his throne amidst shouts of joy and trumpet blasts, and calls on all peoples to clap their hands and sing praises to him. The psalm also highlights God’s reign over the nations and his holy throne.
• Second Reading: Ephesians 1:17-23 – A prayer from Paul for the Ephesian believers, asking God to give them spiritual wisdom and knowledge so that they may understand the hope and inheritance they have in Christ. Paul also emphasizes the power of God that was revealed when Christ was raised from the dead and exalted to the highest place, above all earthly powers and authorities.
• Gospel: Matthew 28:16-20 – The resurrected Jesus appears to his disciples on a mountain in Galilee. Jesus commissions his disciples to go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything he has commanded.

Lectionary Reference: 58

Upcoming dates: May 17, 2026, May 13, 2029, May 9, 2032

The Ascension of the Lord Year A celebrates Jesus returning to heaven and His ongoing mission through His followers. The readings show His promise to be with us always and the call to share His message with the world.

• Jesus’ mission continues: Before ascending, Jesus tells His disciples to spread His teachings to all people. This reminds believers that His work did not end but continues through them.
• The promise of the Holy Spirit: Jesus assures His followers that they will receive the Holy Spirit. This gives them strength and guidance to carry out His mission.
• Jesus’ authority over all: The Gospel shows Jesus as the risen Lord with authority over heaven and earth. This gives confidence that His power is greater than anything in the world.
• The call to evangelize: Jesus commands His disciples to teach and baptize in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. This call extends to all believers, urging them to share the faith.
• Faith in God’s plan: The disciples watch Jesus ascend and are reminded to trust in God’s plan. Even when they do not understand, they are called to believe and follow.
• Jesus remains with us: Though Jesus ascends, He promises to be with His followers always. This reminds believers that He is still present in their lives.

The Ascension of the Lord Year A is a time to reflect on Jesus’ call to share His message. It reminds believers that His mission continues and that He is always with them.

Litany of the Gifts of the Holy Spirit

The Ascension of the Lord Year A reminds us that Jesus did not leave His followers alone. Before He ascended, He promised to send the Holy Spirit to guide and strengthen them. The Litany of the Gifts of the Holy Spirit is a prayer asking for this help. It reminds believers that they need wisdom, courage, and understanding to follow Jesus’ teachings and share His message.

The Holy Spirit gives strength when faith is tested and guidance when the path is unclear. The Ascension of the Lord Year A calls believers to trust in this help and open their hearts to the Spirit. Praying for these gifts prepares them to live as Jesus taught. With the Holy Spirit, they can walk in faith, share the Gospel, and grow in love for God and others.

What Is the Paschal Mystery?

The Ascension of the Lord Year A is the final part of the Paschal Mystery. Jesus completes His mission on earth and returns to the Father. Before He ascends, He gives His disciples a mission to spread His message to all nations. He also promises to send the Holy Spirit to help them. His Ascension opens the way to heaven for all who believe in Him.

The Ascension of the Lord Year A reminds believers that Jesus is still present. He leads His Church and strengthens His followers through the Holy Spirit. His command to preach, teach, and baptize continues today. Catholics are called to share their faith and live as disciples. The Ascension is not just about Jesus leaving—it is about His mission continuing through His people.

Psalm 47: A Joyful Call to Trust God’s Kingship

Psalm 47 is a song of praise that celebrates God’s rule over all the earth. It fits perfectly with the Ascension of the Lord Year A, as Jesus is lifted up to His place of glory. Just as the psalm describes God’s kingship, the Ascension shows Jesus taking His rightful place at the right hand of the Father.

The Ascension of the Lord Year A is also a call to action. Jesus gives His disciples a mission to share His message with all nations. The psalm reminds believers that God reigns over all people, and His salvation is for everyone. This moment is not just about Jesus going to heaven—it is about His followers continuing His work on earth.

See a Prayer for Trust and Joy based on Psalm 47

Why Did Jesus Ascend to Heaven?

Bishop Robert Barron’s homily for the Ascension of the Lord Year A explains that Jesus does not leave His followers behind. Instead of simply going “up,” He enters a higher state of existence, making Him even closer to believers. His Ascension brings hope because He leads the way for humanity to be united with God.

Bishop Barron emphasizes that Jesus, now seated at the right hand of the Father, continues to guide His Church. He sends the Holy Spirit to strengthen and lead His followers. The Ascension of the Lord Year A is not about Jesus’ absence but about His ongoing presence. Through the Holy Spirit and the Eucharist, He remains active in the world, calling His people to carry out His mission.

The Last Words

Jeff Cavins’ commentary for the Ascension of the Lord Year A highlights Jesus’ final words to His disciples. Before ascending to the Father, Jesus commands them to make disciples of all nations, baptizing and teaching them. He promises they will not be alone, as He will always be with them. This mission is not just for the apostles but for every believer.

Jeff Cavins explains that following Jesus means sharing His teachings with others. Just as a rabbi trains disciples to one day teach, Christians are called to guide others in faith. The Ascension of the Lord Year A reminds believers that faith is not just personal but meant to be shared. Jesus gives the Holy Spirit to help in this mission, ensuring His followers have the strength to carry it out.

The Good News

Scott Hahn’s commentary for the Ascension of the Lord Year A explains that Jesus’ work did not end with His resurrection. He ascends as the great high priest, entering heaven to intercede for His people. His ascension prepares the way for Pentecost, when the Holy Spirit will come to complete salvation. Baptism cleanses believers, making them ready to receive the Spirit and live as God’s children.

Scott Hahn highlights that Jesus’ ascension fulfills Old Testament promises. Like a king taking His throne, He now rules with the Father. Saint Paul speaks of this glory, calling believers to share in it. The Ascension of the Lord Year A is not just about Jesus leaving but about the mission He gives His followers. The apostles are sent to spread the good news, and that mission continues for all believers.

The Map Comes Full Circle

Fr. Richard Rohr’s homily for the Ascension of the Lord Year A highlights the meaning of Jesus’ return to the Father. Jesus completes His journey, coming from God and returning to Him, showing that all believers are meant to do the same. The Ascension is not about Jesus physically rising into the sky but about moving into the fullness of life with God. It teaches that absence creates space for a deeper experience of presence.

Fr. Richard explains that the time between the Ascension and Pentecost is a period of waiting and longing. Just as Jesus’ disciples had to endure His absence before receiving the Holy Spirit, people often do not appreciate what they have until it is gone. The Ascension of the Lord Year A reminds believers that longing and emptiness prepare the heart for something greater. Jesus’ departure makes way for the Spirit, who brings new life and presence in a deeper way.

The Ascension of the Lord Year A is a moment of both departure and promise. Jesus leaves His disciples, but He does not leave them alone. He gives them a mission, assures them of the Holy Spirit’s help, and promises to return. The readings invite believers to trust in God’s power, share their faith, and live as disciples.

Commission, Power, and Promise

The Ascension of the Lord Year A shows Jesus leaving His disciples with a mission. He tells them to go and share His message with all nations. This command is not just for them but for every believer. Jesus calls His followers to be witnesses of His love and truth in the world.

Jesus does not send His disciples out alone. He promises that the Holy Spirit will come to help them. The Spirit gives strength, wisdom, and courage to carry out this mission. The same Spirit works in believers today, guiding them in faith and service.

The Ascension also points to the hope of Jesus’ return. The disciples watch Him rise into heaven, but they are told He will come again. This promise brings joy and encouragement. It reminds believers to stay faithful and focused on living as Jesus taught.

The Ascension of the Lord Year A teaches that faith is active. Jesus calls His followers to share the Gospel, trust in the Holy Spirit, and look forward to His return. His mission continues through every believer who chooses to follow His call.

Answering the Call to Be Disciple Makers

The Gospel for the Ascension of the Lord Year A reminds believers that Jesus is always with them. Though He ascends to heaven, He does not abandon His followers. He gives them a mission to make disciples and spread His teachings.

Being a disciple maker is more than knowing facts about Jesus. It is about loving others and leading them closer to God. Jesus showed this love by sacrificing Himself for others. His followers are called to show the same love in their words and actions.

Sharing faith requires stepping outside of comfort zones. It means listening, guiding, and walking with others on their faith journey. This work is not always easy, but it is full of blessings. Jesus sends the Holy Spirit to help those who take on this mission.

The Ascension of the Lord Year A challenges believers to take their role as disciple makers seriously. By trusting in the Holy Spirit and living out the Gospel, they can bring others to Christ and share His love with the world.

Trusting in God’s Power

The second reading for the Ascension of the Lord Year A speaks about the power of God. Paul prays that believers will understand the strength and wisdom that comes from Him. This same power raised Jesus from the dead and placed Him above all things.

The disciples may have felt uncertain as they watched Jesus ascend. They were used to having Him with them, and now He was leaving. But God’s power would still be at work in them. He would give them what they needed to carry on Jesus’ mission.

God’s power is not just for a few chosen people. It is available to all who trust in Him. He gives wisdom to those who seek it and strength to those who feel weak. He is always working, even when His plans are not clear.

The Ascension of the Lord Year A reminds believers to rely on God’s power. Jesus is not distant; He is still leading His people. Through prayer and faith, they can trust that He is guiding them in their journey.

The Ascension of the Lord Year A reminds us that faith is not passive. Jesus calls His followers to action, trusting in the Spirit’s guidance. His mission continues through each believer who chooses to love, serve, and share the Gospel.

Prayer

Lord Jesus, You have called us to follow You and share Your message. Strengthen us with Your Spirit so we may live as true disciples. Give us courage, wisdom, and trust in Your presence. Help us to love others as You have loved us. May we always walk in Your ways. Amen.

• How does the Ascension of the Lord Year A challenge you to live your faith more fully?
• What does it mean to be a disciple maker in your daily life?
• How have you experienced the Holy Spirit’s guidance in difficult moments?
• Why is it important to trust in God’s power rather than rely only on yourself?
• How can you help others grow in faith through your words and actions?
• What does Jesus’ promise to be with us always mean to you?
• How do you prepare your heart for His return?
• What are some ways you can step out of your comfort zone to share the Gospel?
• Why do you think Jesus chose to leave His mission in the hands of His followers?
• How can you strengthen your relationship with the Holy Spirit?

The music selections for the Ascension of the Lord Year A focus on themes of Jesus’ kingship, His return to the Father, and the call to spread the Gospel. Some songs celebrate Jesus as the risen and exalted Lord, praising His rule over all creation. Others highlight the joy of His ascension and the hope of His return. Some selections call on the Holy Spirit, preparing for Pentecost and reminding believers that Jesus is still present through the Spirit. These songs encourage worship, trust, and a deeper commitment to the mission Jesus left for His followers.

• Alleluia, Sing to Jesus by Rowland H. Pritchard, William C. Dix, Robert E. Kreutz
• Be Lifted High by Josh Blakesley
• Breathe on Me, O Breath of God by Edwin Hatch
• Come, Holy Ghost by Catholic Music Initiative
• Come Holy Spirit by David Mares
• Christ Be Our Light by Bernadette Farrell
• God Mounts His Throne by Curtis Stephan
• God Mounts His Throne to Shouts of Joy by Val Parker
• God, We Praise You by Christopher Idle
• Hail the Day that Sees Him Rise
• Hail, Redeemer, King Divine by George J. Elvey & Patrick Brennen
• He Is Exalted by Twila Paris
• Here Is Our King by David Crowder Band
• High and Lifted Up by Hillsong
• Holy God, We Praise Thy Name by Michael Card
• Holy Spirit by Ken Canedo & Jesse Manibusan
• I Will Rise by Chris Tomlin
• Lord, You Give the Great Commission
• Open Up the Heavens by Meredith Andrews
• Psalm 47: God Mounts His Throne by Paul Inwood
• Rejoice the Lord Is King by John Darwall, Charles Wesley & Randall Debruyn
• Show Us Your Glory by Jennie Lee Riddle, Travis Ryan & Brandon Michael Collins
• The Church’s One Foundation by Samuel S. Wesley & Samuel J. Stone
• The King of Kings, Christ Jesus Reigns by Melvin Farrell SS
• We Walk by Faith by Marty Haugen
• Ye Watchers and Ye Holy Ones by John A. Riley

Music directors and musicians can use these selections to bring the message of the Ascension to life in their communities. Consider how these songs fit with the themes of worship, mission, and the Holy Spirit. Try them in your parish, and share your own recommendations in the comments. Music is a powerful way to celebrate and reflect on the Ascension of the Lord Year A.

What date is the Ascension of the Lord Year A?

Traditionally the Ascension of Our Lord was held 40 days after Easter, falling on a Thursday. However in most dioceses in the United States, the observance of the Solemnity of the Ascension of the Lord Year A is moved to the following Sunday, superseding the 7th Sunday of Easter.

The next date is Sunday May 17, 2026.
For other years see the links below:
Ascension of the Lord Year B
Ascension of the Lord Year C

What are the Mass readings for the Ascension of the Lord Year A?

The Catholic Mass readings for are:
First Reading: Acts 1:1-11: The Ascension of Jesus: Our Commission, the Holy Spirit, and Christ’s Return
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 47: Praise to God, the King Above All
Second Reading: Ephesians 1:17-23: Prayer for Wisdom and Revelation in Christ
Gospel: Matthew 28:16-20: The Great Commission: Making Disciples of All Nations

What does the Ascension mean?

The Ascension is when Jesus returns to the Father in heaven. He completes His mission on earth and leaves His followers with a task to continue His work.

Why is the Ascension important?

It shows that Jesus is not limited by time or space. He is now with the Father but remains present through the Holy Spirit.

Did Jesus really leave His disciples?

Jesus is no longer physically present, but He is still with His followers. He promises to be with them always through the Holy Spirit.

How does the Ascension of the Lord Year A show that Jesus is in charge?

Jesus says that all power in heaven and on earth has been given to Him. He is not just a teacher or prophet but the ruler of all creation.

What does Jesus tell His disciples before He ascends?

He commands them to go and make disciples of all nations. He tells them to baptize and teach people everything He has taught.

How does the Ascension prepare for Pentecost?

Before leaving, Jesus promises the Holy Spirit will come to guide and strengthen His followers. The Spirit arrives at Pentecost, helping them spread the Gospel.

What does the Ascension of the Lord Year A teach about waiting?

The disciples must wait for the Holy Spirit after Jesus leaves. This shows that sometimes faith requires patience and trust in God’s timing.

Why do angels appear after Jesus ascends?

They remind the disciples to focus on their mission instead of just looking up. Jesus will return, but until then, they have work to do.

How does the Ascension of the Lord Year A help believers today?

It reminds them that Jesus is always present through the Holy Spirit. It also encourages them to share their faith with others.

How can we follow Jesus’ command to make disciples?

By sharing faith with others, teaching about Jesus, and living in a way that reflects His love. Even small acts of kindness can help bring people closer to God.

Why does Jesus tell His followers not to be afraid?

He knows they may feel lost without Him, but He reassures them that He will always be with them. The Holy Spirit will give them strength and guidance.

What does the Ascension say about heaven?

Heaven is not just a place above the clouds. It is being fully united with God in love and joy. Jesus shows that believers are called to this life with God.