Sunday after the Ascension

On June 1, 2025, the Church celebrates the Sunday after the Ascension, a significant moment in the liturgical calendar that marks the transition into the Time after Pentecost. This Sunday serves as a bridge between the joyous celebration of Christ's Ascension, where He is exalted to the right hand of the Father, and the forthcoming outpouring of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost. The absence of specific saints or commemorations on this day allows the faithful to focus entirely on the profound mystery of the Ascension, emphasizing Christ’s authority and the promise of the Holy Spirit, which prepares the Church for her mission in the world.

The readings and prayers for this Sunday invite families to reflect on the call to live in a spirit of love and community, as highlighted in St. Peter's exhortation to mutual charity and hospitality. The Gospel passage reinforces this message by preparing the disciples to bear witness to Christ through the Holy Spirit, encouraging families to contemplate how they can be witnesses of faith in their daily lives. As they gather for Mass, families are encouraged to discuss the importance of prayer, charity, and the gifts they have been given; they should consider how these gifts can be shared within their own homes and communities, fostering a deeper understanding of their role in furthering God’s Kingdom on Earth.

St. Angela Merici: A Beacon of Faith and Education

Historical Background and Life Story St. Angela Merici was born in 1474 in Desenzano, Italy, during a time when education for girls was scarce. After the loss of her parents, she dedicated her life to God and became a member of the Third Order of St. Francis. In 1535, inspired by her deep love for God and her desire to educate young women, she founded the Ursuline Order, the first company of women dedicated to teaching, which would lay the groundwork for Catholic education for centuries to come.

Main Virtues and Spiritual Contributions St. Angela exemplified virtues of compassion, wisdom, and dedication to education. Her spiritual contributions include her emphasis on the importance of nurturing the faith of young girls and empowering them through knowledge and moral guidance. She believed that education was a path to holiness and that the love of Christ could be shared through teaching.

Canonization and Significance to the Church St. Angela was canonized by Pope Pius VII in 1807 due to her exemplary life of service and the profound impact her educational initiatives had on the Church and society. She is significant not only as a patroness of educators but also as a model of how faith can transform lives through learning and community support, inspiring countless women to follow in her footsteps.

Lessons for Catholic Families Today Families today can learn from St. Angela's commitment to education and her belief in the inherent dignity of every child. By fostering a nurturing environment that values learning and faith, families can help their children grow into compassionate and knowledgeable individuals. Emulating St. Angela's example, parents can encourage their children to engage in acts of service and education within their communities.

Closing Prayer Dear St. Angela Merici, intercede for our families that we may embrace the gift of education as a means to deepen our faith and serve others. Help us to inspire our children to live with compassion and diligence in all they do. Amen.

In today’s readings, we find a profound call to live out our faith through the guidance of the Holy Spirit and in mutual love and charity. In the Gospel of John (15:26-27; 16:1-4), Jesus promises the coming of the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, who will empower the disciples to bear witness to Him. This theme resonates with the teachings of the Catechism of the Catholic Church, particularly in CCC 683, which explains that the Holy Spirit is sent by the Father and the Son to "teach" and "remind" us of all that Christ has said. The Spirit’s role is essential in helping us understand our mission as witnesses of Christ in the world.

St. Peter’s letter (1 Pet 4:7-11) further develops this idea by urging the faithful to live in a spirit of charity and service, echoing CCC 951, which emphasizes that all members of the Church are called to contribute their gifts in service to one another. This mutual charity not only strengthens the bonds within families and communities but also honors God through our actions. Families are encouraged to reflect on how they can embody this teaching by being generous and hospitable to one another, fostering an environment where love prevails and God’s grace can flourish.

As families gather for Mass today, they can discuss practical ways to live out these teachings in their daily lives. This could include setting aside time for prayer together, finding ways to serve their community, or simply being more attentive to each other's needs and feelings. By recognizing and valuing the gifts they have received, families can become stewards of God's grace, creating a home that reflects the love and charity that St. Peter calls for. In doing so, they not only deepen their faith but also become active participants in the mission of the Church, ready to witness to the joy and hope found in Christ.