Acts 1:1-11; Psalm 47; Ephesians 1:17-23 or Ephesians 4:1-13; Mark 16:15-20

The Significance of the Ascension — The theological unity, or perhaps even the temporal experience of the early community, made it seem that Jesus' resurrection and his ascension were inseparable aspects of a single mystery. Only in the later writings of Luke and John has further theological reflection helped the Christian community to distinguish different dimensions of the mystery. Liturgical tradition has followed the forty-day chronology formulated by Luke. We would miss the point, however, if we were to demand a precise historical chronology of events such as the Resurrection - Ascension that are primarily spiritual in nature and that clearly surpass the bounds of time and space as we knows them. What is important for us to grasp is the significance of the Ascension. For Luke, it is the decisive turning point that marks the end of Jesus' earthly ministry and the beginning of the disciples Spirit-led ministry and thus the ministry of the whole church down to our own day.

Treasures From Our Tradition — Today's celebration varies from place to place. In some parts of the United States, people gather for the Seventh Sunday of Easter, while other places celebrate the Ascension of the Lord. Several years ago, regions of bishops were permitted to decide whether to retain Ascension Day on Thursday, the fortieth day after Easter, or to move the celebration to the nearest Sunday. This new flexibility in the Christian calendar has to do with the desire to gather the Church to celebrate its central feasts fully, and with the Eucharist. Increasingly, as priests serve remote and scattered parishes, this is not always possible mid-week. The Ascension is a key moment for grasping what life in Christ is all about. It is not about a departure, but rather a plan for presence. We who are nourished by the Lord's body and blood in the Eucharist are transformed to be his abiding presence in the world. That is a truth so worth celebrating that we can adjust our calendar in order that the fullest possible gathering of the Church can be achieved.

Reflection — "Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved." - Mark 16:16

Sundays - 7:30 am, 9 am, 11 am and 1:00 pm en español
(Children's and Youth Choirs sing first Sunday of the month.)

Saturdays -  4 pm [vigil]  
First Saturdays - 8 am