Ascension

Today is 'Ascension Day' in the Western Church.  Following Jesus' death by crucifixon he spasmodically appeared in a form people could see, hear and touch for forty days. Then, while with close friends in a village, a cloud hid him and he vanished from their physical sight for ever. Before disappearing he promised that he would always be with them and would send his Spirit upon many people.

The message to pagans, Buddhists, Hindus and materialists is, in the words of the late Pope Benedict, that behind this universe is a face.  Even in our darkest times the moon still shines. It reflects not its own light but the sun's light.  You and I have the infinite privilege of reflecting the light of the Cosmic  Christ, the Son of God and the Sun of suns.

Now a human heart lives in the heart of God and in our prayers today we cry 'lift us up'.

See Liturgies from Lindisfarne page 176.

I spent May 15 on Holy Island with Christians Aware, giving them a guided tour and speaking about the links between the churches in the East and in Celtic lands. Our Advisor Prof Ian Bradley joined us for the evening who spoke about the resurgence of republicanism in UK.   I have been thinking out a letter to Republicans on the following lines.

How can a President foster a sense in all home nations, races and income groups that we are one family, a royal priesthood, worthy of honour and respect?  How may a President foster continuity with the best values and spirit of the past, that ensures  a great future that is not ruined by mass selfishness, or by brainwashing through algorithms ,but which is animated by the sacredness of every human life, and which is lifted above the sordid with a vision of our highest destiny girded by great values that put a glory in to our every day lives?

The answer, whether we are monarchists or republicans, is to enthrone the Ascended Christ as King of kings, and president, and of the poorest homeless person sleeping on the street.

May we be animated by this Ascension Day vision.