This Thursday we celebrate the feast of the Assumption of Mary. Our Catechism states that “…the Immaculate Virgin, preserved free from all stain of original sin, when the course of her earthly life was finished, was taken up body and soul into heavenly glory, and exalted by the Lord as Queen over all things, so that she might be the more fully conformed to her Son, the Lord of lords and conqueror of sin and death. The Assumption of the Blessed Virgin is a singular participation in her Son’s Resurrection and an anticipation of the resurrection of other Christians.”
The feast of the Assumption is a Holy Day of Obligation, and Catholics are obliged to attend Mass. Here, at our Parish, The Mass celebrations are : Wednesday, August 14 Vigil at 7:00 PM, and Thursday, August 15 at 6:30 AM, 9:00 AM, 12:00 Noon and 7:00 PM in the Sanctuary. Confessions will NOT be held this Wednesday evening this week due to the Holy Day Vigil Mass.
The Catholic publication “Vatican News” reported that Pope Francis, commenting on the Assumption, stated that Mary was taken body and soul into heaven and her body “did not know the corruption of the grave.” He said that this was a special privilege granted to the Mother of God due to her unique corporal and spiritual union with her Son, Jesus. Pope Francis further stated that this privilege “gives us confirmation of our own glorious destiny.” He reminded the faithful that “If we have lived…in joyful service of God, which is expressed in the joyful service to our brothers and sisters, our destiny, on the day of the resurrection, will be like that of our heavenly Mother.”
The following “Prayer for Mary Assumed into Heaven” on the right, from the “New Saint Joseph People’s Prayer Book” reflects the sentiments of Our Holy Father.
O Blessed Virgin Mary, united to the victorious Christ in heaven,
you are the image and first-flowering of the Church as she is to be perfected in the world to come.
You shine forth as a sign of sure hope and solace for the pilgrim People of God.
In your Assumption,
you manifest the fullness of redemption
and appear as the spotless image of the Church responding in joy to the invitation of the Bridegroom,
your Son, who is the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep.
Grant that we may follow your example on Earth thereby imitating your Son
as well and being enabled to share your glory,
with Him for all eternity. Amen
Encouraged by the Assumption of Mary, we are challenged by Our Holy Father to keep our focus on loving and serving Jesus as we continue on our journey of faith.
Mary, Our Lady of the Rosary, intercede for us.
Mary, Our Lady of the Assumption, pray for us.