Thursday, May 5, is the 40th day after Easter, when the Church celebrates the Solemnity of the Ascension – when Jesus ascended bodily into heaven in the sight of the apostles.

Since the year 2000 in our diocese and the province of Florida, this holy day of obligation is transferred to the Seventh Sunday of Easter (this year it is on May 8).

Therefore, attending Mass on May 5 is not required (although it is wonderful to do so if you are able).