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It took some time for Father Joshua J. Whitfield to understand the significance of the ascension of Jesus. Initially, he viewed it as an outdated mythological concept that modern Christians might dismiss in favor of a more rational understanding of faith. However, his perspective shifted when he began engaging deeply with the Bible and liturgy.
Father Whitfield described this change as almost mystical, occurring when scripture and worship became intertwined in his life. He realized the importance of believing in Jesus' ascension and its connection to all aspects of faith.
While studying at seminary during the Easter season, Father Whitfield found himself drawn to Jesus through daily prayer and reading John's Gospel. He longed for a closer relationship with Christ but acknowledged that such closeness could not be achieved physically since Jesus had risen. This longing was pivotal in leading him to grasp the significance of the Ascension.
He emphasized that understanding the Ascension requires more than academic study; it involves participating in church prayer and liturgy. As he read passages about the "Paraclete" or "Counselor," he recognized that these spiritual teachings aligned with his own feelings of wanting to be with Jesus.
The realization struck him during Easter: while waiting for Pentecost after Easter, he understood that these feasts represent Jesus' departure and the coming of the Spirit. The church's scripture helped him find his desire for Christ, while its liturgy fulfilled it.
Father Whitfield discussed how Luke's Gospel describes waiting for power from on high—the Holy Spirit—after Jesus' Ascension, given at Pentecost. This same Spirit enables believers to connect with God as their Father and is central to Christian life.
He concluded by asserting that the feast of Ascension matters because it helps Christians map their spiritual reality as children in Christ. It teaches prayer and encourages engagement with a Catholic community through worship, Bible reading, and prayer.
Father Joshua J. Whitfield serves as pastor at St. Rita Catholic Community in Dallas and is an author known for works like “The Crisis of Bad Preaching.”
