The Ascension of Christ means that Jesus “was lifted up, and a cloud took him out of their [the disciples’] sight” (Acts 1:9). His glorified body and soul, which had risen from the dead, now ascended into Heaven.

The two distinctive aspects of the mystery of the Ascension are: (1) the fullness of the glorification of Jesus’ victorious humanity in Heaven and (2) the completion of His visible ministry on earth.

Through His Ascension, Christ has claimed for us a participation in His divine life. He has ascended into Heaven to prepare a place for us. However, He has not abandoned us here on earth.

Christ is present with the Church through God the Holy Spirit. It is through the Holy Spirit that Christ is present to us in the sacraments, especially in the Holy Eucharist. He is also present in the souls of all who love Him and who are striving to do His will.