Christians at the Regina Mundi Cathedral in Regina Mundi joined other worshippers globally in celebrating the Feast of the Ascension on Thursday, May 14, 2026. This significant event saw Christians of the Regina Mundi Cathedral unite with other Christians worldwide in observing this important day in the liturgical calendar. Abbé Stève Mike Niyonkuru, addressing the congregation, stated that heaven is prepared while one is still on Earth, emphasizing the continuous spiritual journey believers undertake throughout their lives. Niyonkuru showed the profound spiritual call, stating, "We are called to enter into this mystery of God which manifested itself in the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ." He further elaborated on the active role of believers, adding, "We are called to proclaim this word of God in order to convert from any sin. Announcing the word of God is not simply saying that Jesus Christ is alive; it is also showing the light to those in darkness, who do not know love, showing the word of God to all the injured and despairing." This proclamation, he stressed, is a vital part of living out one's faith.
Living God's Will
Jesus Christ recommends preaching God's word throughout the world, teaching every human being, and baptizing in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, as written in the Gospel of Saint Luke. This divine mandate forms the core of Christian evangelism and discipleship. Announcing God's word, according to Abbé Niyonkuru, involves showing light to those in darkness, to individuals who do not know love, and to the wounded and desperate, extending compassion and guidance to those in need. He cautioned that while some Christians praise God, their actions can be considered null before God if they do not eliminate evil practices such as killing and stealing, noting the critical importance of aligning one's conduct with divine principles. The word of God calls Christians to live as 'Theophile,' a term signifying one who loves God, implying a deep and active commitment to God's will. This requires active commitment beyond mere verbal praise, demanding that faith be demonstrated through righteous living and ethical choices.
The Role of Preaching
Abbé Stève Mike Niyonkuru emphasized the necessity of introspection while Christians preach God's word to others, urging believers to examine their own lives and ensure their actions align with their message. He stated that being "Theophile," a term meaning one who loves God, requires Christians to serve as witnesses and to truly preach God's word, not just verbally but through their very lives. This commitment involves more than verbal praise, calling for actions that reflect divine teachings and a deep personal examination alongside public proclamation. To effectively convey God's message, he explained, one must first embody it. He further clarified that being 'Theophile' also requires Christians to be witnesses and to genuinely convey God's message, ensuring authenticity in their evangelistic efforts.
Observing the Ascension
The Feast of the Ascension, a significant observance in the Christian calendar, is celebrated annually. This event occurs precisely forty days after Easter, commemorating Jesus Christ's bodily ascension into heaven. The timing allows believers to reflect on the post-resurrection period, during which Christ appeared to his disciples, providing further teachings and preparing them for the Holy Spirit's descent. The celebration shows the transition of Christ's earthly ministry to his heavenly reign, a foundational tenet for Christians globally. It serves as a powerful reminder of Christ's triumph over death and his ultimate return to the Father, promising a future hope for believers.
Spiritual Preparation
The Feast of the Ascension marks the ascent of Jesus Christ to heaven, signifying the completion of his earthly mission and his enthronement at the right hand of God. To enter heaven, the word of God exhorts Christians to fulfill divine will, emphasizing that salvation is not merely a belief but also a commitment to living according to God's commandments. Christians are called to enter the mystery of God, which was manifested in the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, embracing the profound truth of redemption and new life. To inherit the kingdom of God, where Jesus Christ ascended, Christians must manifest their love for God through their actions, demonstrating their faith through obedience and service. This preparation, as Abbé Niyonkuru noted, is a lifelong process that begins on Earth.