Dear St. Charles Parishioners...
- ASCENSION OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST
Within the account of Acts 1:3, the risen Jesus appeared for 40 days prior to his Ascension. Ascension Day is traditionally celebrated on a Thursday, the fortieth day of Easter. In 2024 it is tomorrow - Thursday, May 9th. However, many dioceses in the United States, including the Diocese of Oakland, celebrate it on the following Sunday; sometimes called Ascension Sunday. This year Ascension Sunday is on May 12th.
The Ascension of our Lord Jesus Christ is a solemn feast for Christians, marking his return to heaven. According to biblical accounts, forty days after his resurrection, Jesus ascended bodily into heaven in the presence of his disciples. This event symbolizes Jesus’ victory over sin and death and his exaltation to the right hand of God. It is a cornerstone of Christian belief, signifying hope, redemption, and the promise of eternal life. The Ascension invites us to reflect on Jesus’ continued presence and intercession on behalf of humanity, inspiring faith and devotion for generations to come.
“Mother’s Day, as a celebration of maternal bonds, is a poignant reminder of a mother’s unwavering love and sacrifices. It’s a day to honor the nurturing figures in our lives, whether biological, adoptive, or maternal figures. From the tender moments of childhood to the guiding hands in adulthood, mothers shape our lives profoundly. It’s a time to express gratitude through gestures, gifts, and heartfelt words. Yet, beyond the flowers and cards, it’s a chance to reflect on the immeasurable impact of maternal love. Mother’s Day serves as a beautiful tribute to the extraordinary women who enrich our world with their unconditional love.”
Happy Mother’s Day to all the mothers in our parish, Saint Charles Borromeo Church. At all of the Sunday Masses we will have a special flower for each mother who joins us at Mass.
It is also an opportunity to revere and thank God for Mary, our heavenly mother. She intercedes for us through prayer. As the mother of Jesus, she holds a special place in the hearts of us all, who turn to her in times of need. Through her prayers, Mary is seen as offering comfort, guidance, and protection to those who seek her intercession, embodying the compassionate and nurturing qualities of a mother in heaven.