The Ascensiontide Octave

For those who still observe or are aware of the liturgical calendar of past years we are on the eve of the Octave Day of the Ascension. Gregory DiPippo has a good study of the traditional Gospel readings in the Roman and other ancient Rites for the Masses of the week on the New Liturgical Movement which can be read at Other Gospels for the Ascension

The artivle also gives a useful outline of the pattern in other Octaves, and how they evolved liturgically.

This season of the year one is reminded all the more of the loss of these Octaves for both the Ascension and for Pentecost. Such a prolongation of the day of celebration and with time to reflect over the succeeding days on its significance and meaning is surely a good idea in terms of encouraging the faithful to greater understanding. That was what was claimed as part of the case for liturgical change as “renewal”. As it is Ascension and Pentecost come and go with little time for such reflection and growth.