May 21, 2020: Solemnity of the Ascension of the Lord

“Christ’s Ascension marks the definitive entrance of Jesus’ humanity into God’s heavenly domain, whence he will come again (cf. Acts 1:11); this humanity in the meantime hides him from the eyes of men (cf. Col 3:3).  Jesus Christ, the head of the Church, precedes us into the Father’s glorious kingdom so that we, the members of his Body, may live in the hope of one day being with him for ever. Jesus Christ, having entered the sanctuary of heaven once and for all, intercedes constantly for us as the mediator who assures us of the permanent outpouring of the Holy Spirit.”

 CCC 665-667

The Solemnity of the Ascension of the Lord is on Thursday, May 21, 2020. Due to the pandemic, there is no obligation to attend Mass on Sundays and Holy Days of Obligation; but the faithful is encouraged to celebrate this feast at home. Here’s a guide to a prayer service at home on Ascension Thursday by Fr. Joseph McLaughlin. Mass will also be live streamed on Vimeo and Facebook from the Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul at 5:00 PM.