In a message for the Solemnity of the Ascension, Bishop David M. O’Connell, C.M. writes:

Although the liturgical celebration of the Solemnity of the Ascension has been transferred to this coming Sunday (May 16) in the Dioceses of New Jersey this year, I can’t help but reflect about its meaning on Thursday, May 13, 40 days after Easter. 

This great feast – whenever its placement in the Catholic Church calendar occurs – commemorates our belief that the Risen Lord Jesus, gathered with his disciples on Mount Tabor near Jerusalem, ascended body and soul into heaven, returning to his Father.  

As the Easter season draws to a close, we consider the Solemnity of the Ascension – traditionally called Ascension Thursday – and what it means to the Catholic community of faith.

To read Bishop O’Connell’s full message click here.

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After five years of educational and pastoral formation, eight laymen will advance to the Order of Deacon May 15 when they are ordained by Bishop David M. O’Connell, C.M., in St. Mary of the Assumption Cathedral, Trenton.

The Mass of Ordination will begin at 10 a.m. and will be livestreamed on all diocesan media outlets, including YouTube.com/trentondiocese. Attendance is by invitation only.

The men, who hail from Burlington, Mercer and Monmouth Counties, will serve their parish communities and the Diocese as permanent deacons. All of the men are married with families and have served for many years in their parishes as lectors, catechists, extraordinary ministers of Holy Communion, and in youth and Hispanic ministries.

To learn more about the ordination candidates, click here.