Conception Abbey

Next Sunday, May 16, we celebrate the Solemnity of the Ascension. This feast was formerly celebrated on Thursday and was frequently called "Ascension Thursday." Now, at least in the U.S.A., it is celebrated the following Sunday in most parts of the country. With this feast we also approach the conclusion of the Easter Season in the Church. The following Sunday, May 23, will be the Solemnity of Pentecost and that feast marks the conclusion of the Easter Season as we return the following day to Ordinary Time.

As we reflect on this feast of the Ascension many of us think of Jesus saying "goodbye" to his disciples. At the Last Supper and after his resurrection he gave them many instructions. Some of us as human beings find it difficult to say "goodbye." When our chances are slim of seeing that person again in this life, it is more difficult. Sometimes it is interesting to see how different people deal with this. Sometimes a person will laugh about it, sometimes a person will just avoid saying "goodbye." I personally have always found it rather difficult to say goodbye.

How did the disciples feel when they observed their Lord and Master ascending into heaven? On one hand they had some reason to feel sad and to fear. Jesus was returning to the Father, and while he had told them he would continue to be with them, they probably found it difficult. However, they also were very much aware of the mission Jesus had given them and that they were to preach the Gospel to the whole world. They did not yet understand so many things. But, after the Ascension, we are told they went back to Jerusalem full of joy to await the coming of the Holy Spirit.

We too sometimes would like for Jesus to be with us in the flesh. We want to see him to touch him and have him answer our questions, and give us all we need. But, hopefully, we, like the disciples, realize we must stop looking into the sky and must go to our villages, towns, and to the whole world, to spread the Good News. We now must carry on the mission initiated by Jesus Christ. We must continue to try to make the kingdom of God a reality in our world.

Jesus sent the Holy Spirit and that Spirit gave the apostles and disciples a new strength and new energy to preach the word of God. May we, too, then prepare ourselves to receive that Spirit so that by our example, our lives and our words may bring the Gospel message to all we meet.

To read Fr. Kenneth’s person blog click here.

To view Fr. Kenneth’s photos on his web site click here. You will find oblate pictures here under the album "oblates 2010," or a couple earlier years.

God bless all of you.