Orthodox Ascension Day 2023: Orthodox Ascension Day is observed annually on the first Thursday of June, which falls on June 1 this year. It commemorates Jesus Christ’s ascension and is observed by all members of the Orthodox Church. The Orthodox Church emphasises the significance of worshipping Christ in the correct (orthodox) manner, which has been handed down since the early days of Christianity, when Jesus traversed the Earth preaching the gospel. Consequently, Orthodox Ascension Day, also known as the Feast of Ascension, is one of the most significant festivals for members of this church. Christians observe a special period of reflection and gratitude to commemorate the ultimate sacrifice of the Messiah.
Orthodox Ascension Day 2023: History
The Eastern Roman Church is the source of the customs and traditions of the Orthodox Church. It is comparable to other Christian churches in many ways. Certain aspects of its theology, as well as its liturgy and manner of life, are distinctive. They believe that the Holy Spirit is present in all Church members, guiding them through pastors, bishops, and the entire Church body. What caused the “Great Schism” between the Orthodox Church and the Roman Catholic Church was the papal claim to supreme authority and the doctrine of the Holy Spirit.
The Eastern (Orthodox) and Western (Roman Catholic) churches gradually separated as eastern and western Rome gradually fragmented. In 1204, during the Fourth Crusade of the Western Church, the destruction of Constantinople accelerated the Orthodox and Roman Catholic factions’ separation. In 1453, more than a century after the Crusaders’ destruction of the city, the Muslim Ottomans seized the capital.
Ascension Day is one of the Twelve Great Feasts celebrated by the Church. ‘Mark’ (16:19) and ‘Luke’ (24:50–53) mention it. In Acts 1:13–11, it is also mentioned. On this date, forty days after His resurrection, Christ made His final apparition on Earth. He appeared to His apostles and commanded them to remain in Jerusalem. Jesus commanded his disciples to baptise all nations in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Then, Christ ascended to Heaven.
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Orthodox Ascension Day 2023: Facts
Orthodox is synonymous with straight doctrine’
The term ‘Orthodox’ is derived from the Greek words ‘orthos,’ which means straight,’ and ‘doxa,’ which means ‘teaching’ or ‘worship.’
There are millions of members across the globe.
There are an estimated 200 to 300 million Orthodox Christians in the globe, including 5.6 million Americans and over 70 million Russians.
Orthodox clerics may marry.
In the Orthodox Church, males who are married can become deacons and then priests. However, once consecrated, Orthodox clerics cannot marry.
The Orthodox Church lacks a leader.
In contrast to the Catholic Church, which recognises the Pope as its paramount spiritual leader, the Orthodox Church recognises the Ecumenical Patriarch of Constantinople as its supreme spiritual leader.
It is among the earliest religious organisations.
The Orthodox Church was founded more than two thousand years ago, making it one of the world’s earliest extant religious institutions.
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Orthodox Ascension Day 2023: Significance
Jesus perished on the cross for our transgressions. On Ascension Day, Orthodox Christians render gratitude to Christ for His ultimate sacrifice in service to humanity.
Christ’s death and resurrection opened the heavenly dominion to all those who believed in Him. Jesus also resisted Satan’s solicitations, demonstrating His worthiness and determination. It is a timely reminder that the triumph of virtue over evil is inevitable.
Christ commanded His disciples on the day of His ascension to “go and make disciples of all nations, baptising them in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit.” This is the ethos with which we observe the holiday. Christians pay homage to His sacrifice by disseminating His message.
Orthodox Ascension Day 2023: Dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2022 | June 2 | Thursday |
| 2023 | June 1 | Thursday |
| 2024 | June 6 | Thursday |
| 2025 | June 5 | Thursday |
| 2026 | June 11 | Thursday |
