Ascension Day
Thursday, May 14, 2026
Ascension Day is a holiday in Central African Republic to commemorate Jesus Christ’s ascension to heaven as recorded in the Bible. It is observed on the fortieth day of Easter – 39 days after Easter Sunday – and always fall on a Thursday. In 2027, Ascension Day falls on Thursday 6 May. The holiday will be on Thursday 25 May in 2028. The Central African Republic is 80 to 90 percent Christian, with some 29 percent being Roman Catholic. Traditionally, Catholics celebrate Ascension Day more than Protestants, but here, it is a national holiday that all can observe. Many take the time to attend church for Ascension Day and reflect on the meaning of Christ’s Ascension to Heaven and reign at His Father’s right hand. Since this is the day when the ascending Jesus gave the Great Commission, people also focus on the mission of the church in the world. Ascension Day comes on a Thursday. Some will take off the intervening Friday in order to form a four-day weekend. Many have the day off and go out and about or just relax at home with family and friends.
History
Traditionally, Catholics celebrate Ascension Day more than Protestants, but here, it is a national holiday that all can observe. Since this is the day when the ascending Jesus gave the Great Commission, people also focus on the mission of the church in the world
How It's Celebrated
Ascension Day is a holiday in Central African Republic to commemorate Jesus Christ’s ascension to heaven as recorded in the Bible. It is observed on the fortieth day of Easter – 39 days after Easter Sunday – and always fall on a Thursday. The holiday will be on Thursday 25 May in 2028. The Central A