Vigil of the Ascension

On May 28, 2025, the Church observes the Vigil of the Ascension, a significant moment in the liturgical calendar that precedes the Feast of the Ascension, celebrated on the following day. This day marks the culmination of the Easter season, commemorating Christ's ascension into heaven after His resurrection, a profound event that signifies His exaltation and the promise of sending the Holy Spirit. The Vigil stands as a preparatory moment for the faithful, inviting them to reflect on Christ's return to the Father and the implications for their own lives, as well as the mission of the Church in the world. Additionally, the day includes a commemoration of St. Augustine of Canterbury, who is celebrated for his missionary work in England and is often regarded as the "Apostle of the English," reminding families of the importance of evangelization and faith-sharing.

The readings and prayers for this Vigil invite families to delve into themes of grace, unity, and mission. The Epistle from Ephesians highlights that each person is gifted by Christ for the building up of the Church, underscoring the call to recognize and nurture the talents bestowed upon them. Meanwhile, the Gospel from John features Jesus' prayer for unity among His followers, emphasizing the importance of community and love within the family and the Church. Families are encouraged to contemplate their own roles in this divine mission, reflecting on how they can use their unique gifts to foster faith and love in their homes and communities. As they prepare to celebrate the Ascension, they are reminded that Christ’s ascension does not mean His absence; rather, it calls them to be active participants in His mission, empowered by the Holy Spirit.

Historical Background and Life Story St. Augustine of Canterbury was a Benedictine monk sent by Pope Gregory the Great in 597 AD to evangelize the Anglo-Saxons in England. He arrived in Kent, where he courageously preached the Gospel and established the foundations of the Church in England, becoming the first Archbishop of Canterbury. His efforts laid the groundwork for a vibrant Christian community that would flourish in the centuries to come.

Main Virtues and Spiritual Contributions St. Augustine exemplified virtues of perseverance and humility, facing significant challenges as he spread Christianity in a land steeped in pagan traditions. His commitment to prayer and dialogue helped bridge cultural divides, allowing him to engage effectively with the local kings and tribes, ultimately leading to widespread conversions. His writings and teachings strengthened the faith of many and encouraged the growth of monastic life across England.

Canonization and Significance to the Church St. Augustine was canonized due to his tireless work in spreading the Gospel and establishing the Church in England, which significantly shaped the spiritual landscape of Western Europe. His feast day is celebrated on May 28, a testament to his lasting legacy as a key figure in the history of Christianity, reminding us of the importance of missionary work and the power of faith in transforming lives.

Lessons for Catholic Families Today Catholic families today can learn from St. Augustine's example of courage and dedication in sharing their faith. His life teaches us the importance of being open to God’s call, fostering a spirit of hospitality and understanding with others, and actively participating in our communities to share the love of Christ. By embodying these virtues, families can inspire future generations to live out their faith boldly.

Closing Prayer St. Augustine of Canterbury, intercede for us as we strive to share the Good News with those around us. May your example guide our families in faith, hope, and love. Amen.

The readings for the Vigil of the Ascension invite us to reflect on the profound themes of grace, unity, and mission as we prepare to celebrate Christ’s return to the Father. In the Gospel of John, Jesus prays for unity among His followers, stating, “that they may be one, even as we are one” (John 17:11). This call to unity resonates deeply with the teachings of the Church, particularly as articulated in the Catechism. The Catechism emphasizes the importance of the Church as the Body of Christ, where each member is vital to the whole (CCC 787). Just as Jesus prayed for His disciples, we are reminded that our unity in faith strengthens our community, allowing us to support one another in our spiritual journeys.

In the Epistle to the Ephesians, St. Paul speaks of the gifts given to each member of the Church for the building up of the body of Christ (Eph. 4:7-13). This aligns with CCC 951, which teaches that through the Holy Spirit, the Church is equipped with various gifts to fulfill its mission. Families can reflect on this teaching by recognizing the unique gifts each member possesses. By fostering an environment where everyone feels valued and encouraged to share their talents, families can become microcosms of the Church, embodying its mission in their daily lives. During this Vigil, families are called to not only pray for unity but also to actively engage in the mission of evangelization, just as St. Augustine of Canterbury did in his efforts to spread the Gospel in England. This can be done by sharing faith stories at home, participating in community service, or discussing how they can support one another in their spiritual growth.

As we prepare for the Feast of the Ascension, let us remember that Christ’s ascension does not signify His absence; rather, it challenges us to live out our faith actively. The Catechism reminds us that the Church is both a gift and a responsibility (CCC 940). Families can take this opportunity to discuss how they can serve their local communities and the Church, using their gifts to witness to the love of Christ. By doing so, they embody the spirit of the Ascension, becoming living examples of unity and mission in a world that desperately needs the hope and love that Jesus offers.