Introduction to
the Celebration
The image we have of the Ascension is that of departing,
going away, disappearing; but our belief as Christians is that it represents
the silent presence of Christ everywhere in the universe. He is no longer
limited by earthly conditions — to be in one place at one time in his presence
to his followers — but now dwells in the heavens with the Father: present in
every gathering of his people — so he is present among us now, present whenever
his people are in need, present in hearts calling us to be disciples and to be
his hands, and feet, and voice in our lives. To celebrate this feast today is
not to recall a past event — that day long ago ‘when he went up to heaven’ —
but to rejoice that Jesus is our living Lord, with us now, leading and guiding
us, because he is not tied down to a moment in earthly history.