On this quiet morning, when most people were still asleep, others made their way to church to observe Ascension Day.

Those who nbc News team spoke to described Ascension Day as a time of hope as they await the return of Jesus Christ.

According to Christian belief, today marks the 40th day after Jesus Christ's resurrection.

The feast of the Ascension ranks with Christmas, Easter, and Pentecost in the universality of its observance among Christians.

Churchgoers at The Universal Church sang songs of praise.

The day is also known as the Feast of Ascension or Holy Thursday, as it always falls on this day of the week.

Bishop Luis Valle says the day is important because it shows that Jesus overcame death.

"For us who are Christians, it is a very important date. It is a reminder for us as well of his response that he went to heaven. Ascension Day is the day of hope, the day that gives us hope that he went to prepare a place for us."