Almighty God, whose blessed Son our Savior Jesus Christ ascended far above all heavens that he might fill all things: Mercifully give us faith to perceive that, according to his promise, he abides with his Church on earth, even to the end of the ages; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, in glory everlasting. Amen (BCP p. 226)

This is one of the two Collects appointed for Ascension Day, one of the seven Principal Feasts of the Church. Ascension Day always falls on the Thursday between the 6th and 7th Sundays of Easter, or forty days after the resurrection. This year it is next Thursday, the 14th. It is the day on which we celebrate Jesus ascending into heaven, leaving the disciples on their own to build the Church. Before ascending, Jesus promises them that he will not leave them comfortless, meaning the gift of the Holy Spirit will be coming soon. We have the good fortune of knowing just how soon that gift came as we prepare to celebrate Pentecost on Sunday, May 24. Ascension Day, then, begins a ten-day time period of waiting, praying, and giving thanks for the gift we know will come soon. Let us all be thankful that the Holy Spirit did descend upon the disciples then and continues to descend on us now.

While we’re giving thanks, many thanks go out to Mtr. Clare and all the young people who prepared for and participated in a wonderful Youth Sunday. It was great to see so many involved and taking an active role in our worship, and wonderful to share in ministry with all of you. I look forward to having our young members participate on a more regular basis in our Sunday services.

Don’t forget to grab your Zinnia seed packets this Sunday as we give thanks for all the mothers in our lives.

Next week will be my last “From the Desk” for a while as I prepare to take my sabbatical leave. Please continue to pray for one another, for our Cathedral family, for our mothers, our nation, and the world.