Solemnity of the Ascension of the Lord

And he gave some as apostles, others as prophets,
others as evangelists, others as pastors and teachers,
to equip the holy ones for the work of ministry,
for building up the body of Christ,
until we all attain to the unity of faith…
—Ephesians 4: 11-13

This passage comes from the second reading of the feast of the Ascension of Jesus to the right hand of the Father in heaven. It sets a course for us as we embrace the message of Easter and live our lives as people of resurrection. Living as Alleluia people comes with many joys and the graces needed fulfill the mission of Jesus on our earthly pilgrimage.

As Alleluia people, we live with the promise of eternal life and the knowledge that the glory of heaven is the reality for all of us. Alleluia people are those who embrace life creatively and are filled with love for themselves and others. They seek people to empower and to raise up. They do not push aside the needs of others—but put those needs ahead of their own. They excel in joy and triumph in sorrow.

As we celebrate the Ascension, let us pray that we find joy in the ministries that God has empowered us to follow:

Heavenly Father, You call all of us to be Apostles to your son, Jesus. Help us to be the best followers that we can be. Inspire us to be Prophets who teach that Your will is the only way to peace. Empower us to be effective Evangelists who preach Your good news to all we encounter. Remind us of the importance of being Pastors who model after the Good Shepherd and to be mindful that Teachers lift up and inspire, and that all Ministers put other's needs ahead of their own. We ask this through Your son, Jesus, whose love unites us all. Amen.




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