This summer, a half-century will have passed since man first landed on the moon. In mid afternoon on 16 July 1969, a spacecraft named Apollo 11 was launched from the Kennedy Space Center in Florida, entering earth\u2019s orbit after 12 minutes. Three days later Apollo 11 passed behind the moon and entered the lunar orbit.<\/p>\n
On 21 July, at around the time when Cistercians rise for Vigils, the astronaut, Neil Armstrong, opened the spacecraft\u2019s door and set foot, the first man in history to do so, on the surface of the moon. In a thoughtful phrase, he remarked that his small step was \u201ca giant leap for humankind\u2019\u2019.<\/p>\n
The mission, which has left its mark on our consciousness, was a scientific triumph. But for our theological imagination, it was a disaster. It especially confused our notion of the Lord\u2019s Ascension. The readings set for the liturgical solemnity culminate in these words: \u201cNow, as he blessed them he withdrew from them and was carried up to heaven.\u201d For us, who live in the wake of the 1969 lunar mission, it is almost impossible to hear them without seeing before our mind\u2019s eye the Apollo rocket fired off from Camp Kennedy….<\/p>\n
Read it all<\/a> [registration] (quoted in the morning sermon).<\/p>\n (Tablet) Erik Varden–Understanding the #Ascension<\/a> https:\/\/t.co\/oce1fCDyed<\/a> The 1969 #moonlanding<\/a>, which has left its mark on our consciousness, was a scientific triumph. But for our theological imagination, it was a disaster’ #theology<\/a> #scripture<\/a> #christianity<\/a><\/p>\n \u2014 Kendall Harmon (@KendallHarmon6) May 26, 2019<\/a><\/p><\/blockquote>\n\n