Ascension Day is this year on May 9, 2024
Kristi himmelfärdsdag, or Ascension Day, is a Christian holiday celebrated in Sweden and other Christian countries. It falls 40 days after Easter Sunday and commemorates the belief that Jesus ascended into heaven.
According to the story in the New Testament, Jesus ascended to heaven in the presence of his disciples after his resurrection, promising to send the Holy Spirit to them. Kristi himmelfärdsdag therefore symbolizes the culmination of Jesus' earthly life and the beginning of the presence of the Holy Spirit in the world.
In Sweden, Kristi himmelfärdsdag is a national public holiday when many people have a day off from work and school. Many choose to spend the day outdoors, enjoying the springtime nature.
Traditionally, Kristi himmelfärdsdag is also a time for church ceremonies and worship services. Many churches hold special masses to honor the day and reflect on its significance.