All around town in the Amish businesses, I’ve been seeing signs that read: “Closed May 17 for Ascension Day.”
I finally asked Chris, one Amish businessman, what the significance of the holiday is and how the Amish observe it.
Chris said the holiday represents the day Jesus ascended into Heaven after He was resurrected.
He also said Ascension Day falls on the 40th day from Easter Sunday. The number “40” represents, according to Biblical Theology, the idea of “completeness.” In this context, Jesus’ work was completed on the earth. After instructing His disciples to spread the Good News of the Gospel, beginning in Jerusalem, He went up into Heaven.
I asked Chris how the Amish observe this holiday.
“Most businesses close for the day,” he replied. “A few businesses might stay open, but I don’t know of many that do.
“Mainly it’s a day of rest for us. We think about the meaning of the day. We spend time with the family. Some districts might have church.”
In Shipshewana and LaGrange County, you will find those shops and businesses owned by the Amish indeed closed on this revered holiday. This year, like most, even the manufacturing facilities where a substantial number of Amish work will even close.
Other shops and businesses not owned by the Amish will have normal business hours. All businesses will re-open on Friday.
The idea that a person could slow down and ponder the significant beliefs that shape a worldview is a thoughtful, meaningful concept. Once again, we learn from the Amish community’s simple ways of life, their religious observances, and their dedication to family.
For more information on this blog or other area information, call the LaGrange County Convention & Visitors Bureau at:
Toll-Free Phone: (800) 254-8090
Direct Phone: (260) 768-4008
The CVB is located at 350 S. Van Buren St. (SR 5), Shipshewana, IN 46565
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Thank you for this very informative and enlightening website, and post. I am now and always have been, respectfully in awe of the simplistic but Faith-based beliefs of the Amish and Mennonite faiths. I sometimes think that they are living much closer to God’s plan for Believers than are us of Southern Baptist, [ or for that metter, Methodist, Nazarene or other Christian or Protestant religions]!!!!!!!!!! ASCENSION DAY will now be observed with respect and reverence in my home—God Bless and I thank you from His love amd grace!!!!!!!!!!