The Ascension marks a new era in the Church: Jesus is gone. He tells Mary Magdalene, “Don’t hold on to me.” The time has come for Jesus to take his place at the right hand of the Father and to reign in the Heavenly Kingdom that will have no end. Our Lord does this on our behalf, to intercede for us and prepare a place for us. In Heaven, Christ permanently exercises his Priesthood and continues his fight for our souls.