Questions and Answers

664. What does the Ascension add to the Resurrection? (CCC 659) The Ascension adds to the Resurrection the entry of Christ’s humanity into divine glory.
665. In what words does Christ tell Mary Magdalene of His Ascension? (CCC 660) Christ tells Mary Magdalene of His Ascension in the words: “I have not yet ascended to the Father; but go to my brethren and say to them, I am ascending to my Father and your Father, to my God and your God” (Jn 20).
666. Why is Christ’s Ascension closely linked to His descent from heaven? (CCC 661) Christ’s Ascension is closely linked to His descent from heaven, because only the One who descended from heaven, proving thus to be the Son of God, had the power to return to heaven, while this is impossible to man if he is left to his own natural powers.
667. Which event of the Passion symbolizes Christ’s later Ascension into heaven? (CCC 662) Christ’s being lifted up on the cross symbolizes His later Ascension into heaven.
668. Where is Christ placed in heaven? (CCC 663) In heaven Christ is placed at the right hand of the Father.
669. What does Christ’s sitting at the right hand of the Father signify? (CCC 664) Christ’s sitting at the right hand of the Father signifies the inauguration of the messianic kingdom.
Sitting” means Christ’s possession of glory and “at the right hand of the Father” means that He holds the place of honour among all creatures.