May 14, 2026
The Ascension of the Lord (Mass during the Day)
Gospel: Matthew 28:16–20

Today the Church solemnly celebrates the Solemnity of the Ascension of the Lord. Some dioceses, having sought and received permission from the Apostolic See for pastoral reasons, have transferred the celebration to the Seventh Sunday of Easter. However, many dioceses uphold the ancient tradition of celebrating the Ascension on the fortieth day after Easter, which is today. We provide distinct reflections accordingly.

The Gospel from St. Matthew recounts the final appearance of Jesus to the Eleven before His Ascension. Often, like the disciples who went to the mountain in Galilee as instructed, we worship Christ yet fail to fully comprehend His teachings. This is because we frequently follow the inclinations of the flesh, desiring the fleeting treasures of this passing world rather than the eternal riches of the Kingdom of Heaven.

We often forget that we have been baptized into Christ’s infinite charity. From His pierced side flowed the fountain of mercy, washing away our original sin. When we receive the Holy Spirit in Christ—the “Advocate” promised to His disciples (cf. Jn 14:25–26) and the “Spirit of Truth” (cf. Jn 15:26–27)—He dwells within us. By His power, He will give life to our mortal bodies (cf. Rom 8:11), making us temples of God.

Today, Jesus commands the Eleven to go forth, leaving their comfortable confines, so that His Church might be truly universal. As members of the One, Holy, Catholic, and Apostolic Church, we are called to preach the Word to every creature, so that others may receive the same Baptism, the same Holy Spirit, and the same Body and Blood of Christ, becoming one in Him. Therefore, our lives must embody the spirit of the Word, conforming our thoughts, words, and deeds to the likeness of Jesus Christ. Thus, the Christ dwelling within us becomes present to those He desires to choose through our virtuous words and deeds, fulfilling His promise to remain with us always.

Almighty God, make us rejoice with holy gladness, we pray, and exult in humble thanksgiving, for the Ascension of Your Son is our glory. As the Head has gone before in glory, so the Body is called to follow in hope. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.

©Totus Tuus 2026
Cum Approbatione Ecclesiastica