June 1, 2025 – 7th Sunday of Easter – Solemnity of the Ascension of the Lord

Our Great Journey

This week our theme is “The Promise of the Father” based on Luke 24:46-53/ Lucas 24:46-53

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Opening Prayer:

All pray the Sign of the Cross

Almighty God, we give you thanks for the glorious Ascension of your Son, Jesus Christ. May the joy of his heavenly glory fill our hearts and minds, and may we be reminded of the hope of eternal life. Amen.

Using the Bible, invite a family member to read the Gospel aloud. Luke 24:46-53/ Lucas 24:46-53

Things to talk about:

In today’s Gospel, we learn that Jesus is taken up to heaven. Where is Jesus today? Is he near or is he far away?
Why is Jesus’ ascension an occasion for joy?
What does it mean to be “clothed with the power from on high”?
We are all called to be witnesses of Christ. What are some ways you can do that?

Things to do:

In the Gospel, Jesus raises his hand and blesses people. Watch how many times the priest raises his hand to bless the congregation at Mass this Sunday.
Pray the Nicene Creed or the Apostles Creed at home with your family this week.
Make cupcakes and top with “Cloud Frosting”
- Cloud Frosting Recipe

Catholic Insights

Today is our liturgical celebration of the Ascension of the Lord, when Jesus was taken to heaven on the 40th day after Easter. Our Gospel is taken from the conclusion of the Gospel of Luke.

After his resurrection, Jesus appeared to his disciples, teaching them about the Kingdom of God and giving them instructions. He told them to wait in Jerusalem until they receive the “promise of the Father” that is the Holy Spirit, so that it would empower them to be witnesses for him. When they asked about his return, Jesus stated it was not for them to know the timing of such events.

Did you know….In some places, the feast of the Ascension of the Lord is celebrated on the Thursday of the sixth week of Easter. In many dioceses, including the Archdiocese of Atlanta, the feast is moved to the seventh Sunday of Easter.

Resources adapted from 52Sundays.com, Celebrating the Lectionary, At Home with the Word, Celebrating Families, Sunday Connection

Closing Prayer

Collect Prayer for Ascension Sunday

“Gladden us with holy joys, almighty God, and make us rejoice with devout thanksgiving, for the Ascension of Christ your Son is our exaltation, and, where the Head has gone before in glory, the Body is called to follow in hope. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, God, for ever and ever.”
Name those who need our prayers. Close with the Sign of the Cross.