FACT FILE: The Feast of the Ascension
Observed in
Countries with Christian populations
Observed on
The fortieth day after Easter
(Acts 1:3 notes that Jesus appeared to His disciples for “forty days” after His resurrection)
Observed by
Christians—especially Roman Catholics, Eastern Orthodox Christians, Anglicans, and many Protestant traditions
Introduction
The Feast of the Ascension commemorates the moment when Jesus Christ ascended into heaven, forty days after His resurrection (Acts 1:9–11). It always falls on a Thursday, though some regions—such as the United States, Australia, and Poland—celebrate it on the following Sunday for practical reasons.
According to Scripture, during the forty days between His resurrection on Easter Sunday and His ascension, Jesus appeared to His disciples many times:
- He ate with them (Luke 24:42–43)
- He taught them about the kingdom of God (Acts 1:3)
- He invited them to touch His resurrected body (John 20:27)
- He opened their understanding of the Scriptures (Luke 24:45)
Christians believe that the Ascension was the final moment Jesus was physically seen on earth before His promised return. The angels declared:
“This same Jesus… shall so come in like manner as ye have seen Him go into heaven.”
—Acts 1:11
Doctrinally, the Ascension is essential because it affirms:
- Jesus’ divine authority (Ephesians 1:20–23)
- His exaltation at the right hand of the Father (Hebrews 1:3)
- His triumph over Satan and death (Colossians 2:15)
- His ongoing heavenly ministry as our High Priest (Hebrews 4:14–16)
The Apostle Paul connects the Ascension with resurrection hope:
“But now is Christ risen from the dead, and become the firstfruits of them that slept…
For as in Adam all die, even so in Christ shall all be made alive.”
—1 Corinthians 15:20–22
Origins and History
Although the earliest origins of the feast are not fully documented, St. Augustine described it as an apostolic tradition, meaning it was observed by the earliest Christians.
By the fourth century, the feast was celebrated with a procession symbolizing Jesus’ journey to the Mount of Olives, the location of His ascension (Luke 24:50–51).
Historical records describe:
- Banners of Christ at the front of the procession
- Banners of Satan at the rear
These symbolized Christ’s victory over the powers of darkness (Colossians 2:15).
Some medieval churches dramatized the event by lifting a figure of Jesus through an opening in the church roof, symbolizing His rising into heaven. In some traditions, a figure representing Satan was lowered at the same time, emphasizing Christ’s triumph.
Orthodox Christians also celebrate the Ascension as one of the Twelve Great Feasts, though their date falls later because they follow the Julian calendar.
Fun Facts
1. Eastern Orthodox Names
- Analepsis — “the taking up”
- Episozomene — “the salvation”
Both express the belief that Jesus completed the work of salvation by ascending to the Father (John 20:17).
2. One of the Earliest Christian Feasts
The Ascension was first celebrated around 68 C.E., making it one of the oldest Christian festivals in church history.
Events Leading to the Ascension
