Ken’s e-Pistle

May 17, 2023

This Thursday the Church observes the Ascension of the Lord.  Though we won’t have a worship service commemorating the day, it is still important to our faith. 

In the Apostles’ Creed, which we recite every Sunday, we confess that “He ascended into heaven.”  This acknowledges the end of Jesus’ earthly ministry and the beginning of His reign in glory.  From this point we prepare for the coming of the Holy Spirit on Pentecost.  Ascension comes every year on the 40th day after Easter, or on the Thursday of the sixth week of Easter. (I include this for the benefit of those who like to calculate such things.  You know who you are.) 

Presbyterians have always preferred to keep things simple.  There is a quiet dignity about us which is not given to excessive observance or celebration.  Easter, of course, is the exception.  We feel good about breaking out the whoop de doo for Resurrection.  Old School Presbyterians were actually doubtful about Christmas celebrations, feeling that it was an invitation to rum, Romanism and rebellion.  They would probably hang me in effigy, if not in fact, for daring to pen these words! 

Still, lack of celebration should not imply an excuse for ignorance, especially as respects to matters of our faith.  I offer this only for the purposes of instruction. 

Of course, I’m always up for a party.  If we decide to have an Ascension Service and Reception following next year, please count me in!  I’ll bring the barbecue! 

I bid you peace!