Hymns for the Feast of the Ascension of the Lord, Year C

A selection of  hymns and songs suggestions, based on themes from the Roman Catholic lectionary for the Feast of the Ascension of the Lord, Year C.

Most are free-to-use  (ie public domain or copyright-free),so the words can be copied and sung to at least one tune with no concerns about copyright or performance licensing - sometimes in a limited setting.  Many of these hymns are old/traditional - but where possible a variety of styles and genres are included.

A small selection of particularly-appropriate hymns that are still copyright may also be included.

See lectionary art for this Sunday for suggested pictures and art-works based on today's readings.

Seasonal Note

In some countries, the Ascension is celebrated on a Sunday, while in others it is a mid-week feast and the 7th Sunday of Easter is also observed.  See your local liturgical calendar for details.

Readings

First: Acts - Paul recalls how Jesus tolds the disciples that they will receive power once the Holy Spirit comes - and then he was lifted up into the sky, and the angels promised that Jesus will return the same way.

Psalm: 46 - God goes up with shouts of joy, the Lord goes up with trumpet blast / All peoples clap your hands / God goes up with shouts of joy / God is king of all the earth.

Second: 
Ephesians - Paul asks God to give the believers a spirit of wisdom and discernment so they can see the immenseness of God's power, used to raise Christ from the dead and then ascend to God's right hand in heaven, and sit as the head of the church.
OR
Hebrews - Christ has entered heaven itself - and opened up a way for us to do the same.

Gospel:   Luke - Jesus shows the disciples how his life fulfils scriptures, promises that they will be "clothed from on high", blesses them and then withdraws and is taken up to heaven.

Themes

Christ's ascension to his eternal glory in heaven.   Hope that we will follow, living forever in the kingdom.

Suggested free-use hymns

A Hymn of Glory Let us Sing

All Hail the Power of Jesus Name

Alleluia, Sing to Jesus

At the Name of Jesus

Hail the Day that sees Him Rise

Hail Thee, Festival Day

He is Lord

In Christ there is no East or West

Look ye Saints!   The Sight is Glorious

Lord Enthroned in Heavenly Splendour

Psalm 46 - God Goes up with Shouts of Joy (Music for Mass setting)

Rejoice the Lord is King

See the Conqueror Mounts in Triumph

Sing we Triumphant Hymns of Praise

The Head that Once was Crowned with Thorns

We Walk by Faith

Suggested hymns which may still be copyright

Suggestions about hymns that could be included are welcome: leave a comment below.

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