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.