Pope St. Leo I: "Christ's Ascension"

“SINCE then Christ’s Ascension is our uplifting, and the hope of the body is raised, whither the glory of the Head has gone before, let us exult, dearly beloved, with worthy joy and delights in the loyal paying of thanks. For today not only are we confirmed as possessors of paradise, but have also in Christ penetrated the heights of heaven.”

~St. Leo I, ‘Sermons,’ 73:4.

Ascension of Christ, by Andrea di Vanni d'Andrea.
Tempera on wood, 1355-60; The Hermitage, St. Petersburg.