The month of May has two secular dedications, both important at this time. Since 1949, May has been designated to highlight Mental Health Awareness. As one in five U.S. adults experience mental illness annually and less than half receive treatment, it's worth raising consciousness in the parish.

At the beginning of the Acts of the Apostles Jesus did not ascend immediately; he spent a highly symbolic 40 days—reminiscent of his 40 days in the wilderness at the beginning of his ministry—speaking to the apostles “about the kingdom of God.”

The narratives about Jesus by Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John fit nicely into a classic American genre: the road story.

“And again. . . . Five, six, seven, eight!” the director yelled.

One of the very first homilies that I was supposed to preach as a newly ordained priest was the Solemnity of the Ascension. I was to preach at the children’s liturgy.

To the one who fills all things in every way we turn to acknowledge our sins, and so prepare ourselves to celebrate the sacred mysteries.

My humanity is bound up in yours, for we can only be human together.

Browse our library for additional Solemnity of the Ascension of the Lord, Cycle B material.

Click here to view the Take Five weekly for May 12, 2024.