The Ascension of the Lord

The Lord is Near to the Brokenhearted

This Sunday we celebrate the Solemnity of the Ascension of the Lord. “Jesus Christ, having entered the sanctuary of heaven once and for all, intercedes constantly for us as the mediator who assures of the permanent outpouring of the Holy Spirit” (Catechism of the Catholic Church 667). Jesus, no longer confined to one place on earth, can now be near to the brokenhearted everywhere because of his Ascension. We mourn with the community in Uvalde, Texas over the recent heartbreaking loss of innocent human life. Even amidst this tragedy, however, Jesus’ Ascension shines a bright light in the darkness. “Jesus Christ, the head of the Church, precedes us into the Father’s glorious kingdom so that we, the members of his Body, may live in the hope of one day being with him for ever” (Catechism of the Catholic Church 666).

The victims of the shooting in Uvalde are now in the place Jesus has prepared for them in God’s kingdom. May perpetual light shine upon them, and may they rest in peace. And may our mother, Mary, who stood at the cross of her dying son, intercede for all who are grieving and bring them comfort.

Fr. Tony offered this prayer during his homily the day after the shooting at Robb Elementary School on May 24, 2022.

The tragedy of frequent mass shootings is placing a spotlight on violence in general and school shootings in particular. NFCYM has resources available at https://nfcym.org/resources/topics/resources-on-violence/ to assist in the conversations, reflections, and prayers for the victims of violence in our society.