The Ascension
occurs 40 days after the celebration of Christ’s Resurrection on Pascha.
The Ascension is
when Christ ascended into Heaven to be glorified on the right hand of the
Father. The Ascension of Christ is His final physical departure from this world
after the Resurrection. It is the formal completion of His mission in the world
as the Messianic Saviour. The Ascension also indicates the glorification (theosis) of human nature in the risen
Christ and anticipates the gift of the Spirit on Pentecost, ten days later.
Christ’s
blood
From the region of
Northern Eipros is the tradition of emptying
the red egg-dyed water from Holy Thursday on dead or dying plants (ensure it is
a place where animals or people do not tread). As the dye represents Christ’s
blood, this tradition signifies Christ’s departure from this world to Heaven.
Although the
pouring of the dye on plants is a practical & respectful means of disposal,
yet additional symbolism can be attached: it is hoped the plant will be given a
second chance at life, just as Christ heals and gives us life abundantly.
Another custom is
taking the used Paschal candles to
Church to be lit as an offering.
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