The last Sunday before Pentecost is the Sunday within the Octave of Ascension. With the Feast of the Ascension, the Church celebrates the reality of Christ as true God and true man.
During the forty days after His resurrection from the dead, Jesus revealed Himself to those who loved Him and believed in Him. On the fortieth day they saw Him ascend into heaven. This vision was necessary, not for Jesus Himself, but for His disciples so that they might know that He is with His Father.

The Latin name Rogate for the Fifth Sunday after Easter or Rogation Sunday means “Pray!” This name derives from tradition of the Rogation Days, celebrated with prayer processions on the three days before Ascension Day.