Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary

Feast Day: August 15

“Arise, O Lord, into Your resting place: You and the ark of Your sanctification.” – Psalm 132:8

Mary Taken Body and Soul into Heaven

The Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, celebrated on August 15, is one of the greatest feasts of the Church. It honors the truth that Mary was assumed body and soul into heavenly glory, sharing fully in the Resurrection of her Son and reigning as Queen of Heaven and Earth.

A Dogma Rooted in Ancient Tradition

From the earliest centuries, Christians believed that because of her sinless nature and unique role as the Mother of God, Mary was preserved from the corruption of death. While Sacred Scripture does not explicitly describe the Assumption, the Church has always seen this event prefigured in passages such as Revelation 12 and in the honor given to the Ark of the Covenant, a foreshadowing of Mary.

On November 1, 1950, Pope Pius XII solemnly declared the dogma of the Assumption in the apostolic constitution Munificentissimus Deus, affirming that “the Immaculate Mother of God… was assumed body and soul into heavenly glory.”

A Sign of Hope for All the Faithful

The Assumption reminds the faithful that where Mary has gone, we hope to follow. Her Assumption is not only a unique privilege but also a promise of the resurrection for all who remain faithful to Christ. It proclaims that the body itself is sacred, destined for eternal glory when united to Christ.

Honored as Queen of Heaven

Following her Assumption, the Church celebrates Mary’s coronation as Queen of Heaven and Earth, recognizing her role as a powerful intercessor, mother, and advocate for all the faithful. She is the perfect model of discipleship, leading us always to her Son.

Patronage of a Happy Death and Eternal Life

Mary’s Assumption is a source of comfort, especially for those preparing for death or praying for loved ones. As one who was brought directly into heavenly glory, she is the patroness of a happy death and of the hope of eternal life.

A Witness to Victory, Glory, and the Power of God’s Grace

The Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary reminds the faithful that death does not have the final word, and that those who follow Christ with faith and humility will share in His victory. Mary’s life is the shining example of what God’s grace can accomplish in a soul fully surrendered to Him.

Holy Mary, assumed into heaven, pray for us!