Ascension Day: Christians commemorate Jesus’ ascension to heaven, await his return

Millions of Christians in Cameroon and other countries around the world today celebrated Ascension Day, otherwise called the Solemnity of the Ascention, which commemorates the lifting of Jesus Christ, body, and soul into heaven.

Based on the Christian calendar, Ascension Day is commemorated 40 days after Easter, the day Jesus is believed to have resurrected from the dead body and soul.

Cameroon President Paul Biya, on his Twitter, sent a brief message wishing Christians a happy celebration of the day.

Christian denominations who celebrate Ascension Day say it is explained in the Biblical book of Acts 1: 1-11, which records that Jesus spent 40 days appearing to his disciples after his resurrection, teaching them, and preparing them for their mission.

Jesus also told his disciples he will come back again to redeem the righteous in the same manner in which he ascended into heaven.

Before his return to heaven on the 40th day after his resurrection, Jesus also promised to send the Holy Spirit to his disciples before he was then “lifted up … out of their sight”.

As such, 10 days after Ascension Day comes Pentecost Day, the day the holy spirit descended on Jesus’ first converts and gave them the power to preach the gospel.

In Cameroon, Government declared Ascension Day a public holiday, paving the way for Christians to commemorate the day in their various denominations.