The community of St. John the Baptist Orthodox Church in Edwardsville gathered for the celebration of the Great Feast of Our Lord’s Ascension. Father Silouan spoke on how our Lord ascended, taking our human nature back into Paradise. He spoke on how we now have to work at our own ascension - to ascend we need to work at dropping the weight of sin from ourselves which is accomplished through repentance.

Christ is Ascended!
From Earth to Heaven!

Troparion — Tone 4
O Christ God, You have ascended in Glory, / granting joy to Your disciples by the promise of the Holy Spirit. / Through the blessing they were assured / that You are the Son of God, / the Redeemer of the world!
Kontakion — Tone 6
When You had fulfilled the dispensation for our sake, / and united earth to heaven: / You ascended in glory, O Christ our God, / not being parted from those who love You, / but remaining with them and crying: / “I am with you and no one will be against you!”