Why Bethany?
Homily for the Solemnity of the Ascension of the Lord: Fr Stanley Antoni
Why did Jesus choose Bethany as the place to ascend into heaven?
Why not the Grand Temple in Jerusalem or the well-known Mount of Olives or Bethlehem?
Why Bethany—a small, humble village?
In the Gospels, Bethany reveals something important about the heart and spiritual journey of Jesus.
Bethany was the home of Mary, Martha, and Lazarus.
In their home, Jesus didn’t just find followers—He found true friends.
He shared meals with them, had quiet conversations, and experienced real companionship.
In a world that was often hostile or formal, Bethany was a place where He was known, welcomed, and loved.
It was also in Bethany that Jesus raised Lazarus from the dead.
This was one of His most powerful miracles, showing His authority over death. Bethany became a symbol of ultimate hope—a reminder that death is not the end.
Bethany is also where Mary anointed Jesus’ feet with expensive perfume. Her act of love and devotion was more than generosity—it was worship.
It showed a deep, intuitive understanding of what Jesus was about to go through. It was a way of preparing Him for His sacrifice.
And let’s not forget—Jesus began His triumphal entry into Jerusalem from Bethany.
From this quiet village, He began His final walk to the cross. His mission to save the world started from this place of love and friendship.
So, why did Jesus choose Bethany for His Ascension?
Because Bethany represents intimacy, rest, power, devotion, and mission.
It’s a place where Jesus was cared for, worshipped, and known.
It’s also the place where He showed His power and began His final journey.
That’s why His disciples had to wait in Jerusalem for the coming of the Holy Spirit—but their experience of Bethany would shape how they waited.
They had to wait in Jerusalem with the memories and convictions of Bethany:
Knowing Jesus has power over death.
Remembering deep, personal friendship with Him.
Holding on to a spirit of worship and devotion.
Being ready for the mission ahead.
So here’s the question for us today:
Where is our Bethany?
Where is that place—or that state of heart—where we
Spend quiet time with Jesus in prayer and honesty
Find true Christian friendship and support
Witness God lifting us out of darkness and despair
Pour out our love and devotion, even if it costs us something
Begin to sense the mission God has for our lives
Our time in "Bethany" isn’t the destination.
It’s the preparation.
It’s where we are reminded of His power and love.
It’s where we are renewed and made ready to go out into the world.
Bethany is the foundation for Jerusalem.
Bethany is where our mission begins.
