Hemelvaart, or Ascension Day, is a Christian holiday that celebrates Jesus’ return to heaven after his resurrection. It falls on a Thursday, forty days after Easter Sunday.
Here’s the significance of Hemelvaart:
- Commemoration: Christians remember Jesus ascending to heaven to be with God his Father.
- Not an ending, but a new beginning: Hemelvaart signifies the completion of Jesus’ earthly ministry and the beginning of his ongoing presence as a glorified Christ.
- Hope and promise: For Christians, Hemelvaart represents the promise of eternal life and the hope of one day being reunited with God.
Hemelvaart is a public holiday in the Netherlands, so many people have the day off. While it’s a religious holiday, some people choose to spend the day enjoying outdoor activities or going on short trips.