August 15 – Assumption of Mary: meaning of the Feast

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Today, Catholics worldwide celebrate the Feast of the Assumption of Mary. This feast day refers to the belief that the Virgin Mary, the mother of Jesus, was taken up into heaven, body and soul at the end of her earthly life. This doctrine is a significant aspect of Roman Catholic theology and is celebrated as the Feast of the Assumption on August 15th.

Key Points:

Assumption vs. Ascension: Unlike the Ascension of Jesus, described in the Bible, which involves Jesus ascending to heaven by his divine power, the Assumption of Mary is believed to be an act of God lifting Mary into heaven.
Biblical Basis: The assumption is not explicitly stated in the Bible. Instead, it is rooted in church tradition and theological reasoning. The idea is supported by the Church’s understanding of Mary’s unique role in salvation history and her being free from original sin (the doctrine of the Immaculate Conception).
Dogma: Pope Pius XII formally defined the Assumption of Mary as a dogma on November 1, 1950, in the apostolic constitution Munificentissimus Deus. As a dogma, it is a belief that Catholics are required to accept.
Theological Significance: The Assumption signifies Mary’s full participation in her son’s resurrection and prefigures the future resurrection of all Christians. It also highlights her special status as the mother of Jesus and her close association with His divine mission.

In essence, the Assumption of Mary represents the belief that, at the end of her life, Mary was gloriously assumed into heaven, reflecting her purity and her unique relationship with God.