The Ascension And Pentecost

The Feast of the Ascension reminds us, without doubt, of Christ’s ascent into heaven. At the same time, however, we must not forget Christ’s commandment to become the light of the world: “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations…” (Matthew 28).

Forty days after the Resurrection of Christ, each of us is granted the privilege of becoming an apostle in God’s vineyard, proclaiming the Gospel of Christ. In our faith, the Ascension holds a special significance, calling us to transform our lives and to join the company of the Apostles. This feast serves as an intermediate celebration between the Resurrection of Christ and Pentecost, for it is the moment to hear Christ’s final commandment and to respond in obedience and humility to the grace entrusted to us—namely, to become apostles of Christ. Ten days later comes Pentecost, when we receive the gifts of the Holy Spirit.

If the Resurrection of Christ is the victory over death and sin, then the Ascension and Pentecost open the door to a radiant and transfigured life through the reception of the gifts of the Holy Spirit. Therefore, let us open the doors of our souls in prayer and begin a new life.

Following the Resurrection of Christ, the Ascension and Pentecost symbolize for us the birth of the Church. The laws are no longer the commandments of the Old Covenant inscribed on stone, but rather the love of God imprinted upon human hearts. After His Resurrection, and in anticipation of the events of the Ascension and Pentecost, the Apostles were filled with confusion. Through these feasts, we too become witnesses of Christ, bearing within us His presence, for we hear His command given in preparation for the Ascension, and we are strengthened by the outpouring of the gifts of the Holy Spirit.

With blessings,
Archbishop Hovnan Derderian
Primate
Western Diocese of the Armenian Church of North America

Feast of the Ascension
2026