“The most Blessed Virgin Mary, when the course of her earthly life was completed, was taken up body and soul into the glory of heaven, where she already shares in the glory of her son’s resurrection, anticipating the resurrection of all members of his body.” (Catechism of the Catholic Church 974)
This coming Saturday, August 15th, we celebrate the Assumption of Mary. The celebration of this feast goes back to at least the 5th century and has been a part of the official calendar of the church since the 9th century. Yet, it wasn’t until 1950 that this belief was declared a dogma of the church. Why is it so important? Is it simply an honor we give to Mary? Perhaps a reflection on the holy day will help us appreciate its meaning more deeply.
First of all, the Assumption does honor Mary. Of all the saints, Mary’s role is most unique. There are many martyrs, bishops, missionaries, religious, etc., but there is only one mother of Christ. Mary’s connection to Jesus is not just spiritual, but also physical since he took his human form from his human mother. The body that gave Christ his human body is thus, first to share his resurrection.
Secondly, the Assumption honors all Christians. Our belief is in the resurrection of our bodies. All will rise on the last day. The body and soul are so essential and so connected to each other that they cannot be separated. Mary’s assumption points to ours; for resurrection is the destiny of all believers.
Thirdly, the Assumption honors all humanity. When Jesus united his divine nature to our human nature he gave all humanity a dignity unlike all other. Simply by being united to Christ in a shared humanity, we share the hope of resurrection. The assumption of Mary is a sign of that hope.
Fourthly, the Assumption honors God. The celebration reminds us of God’s desire for creation and the effort God has made to achieve it.
Where all of this may sound academic, the feast we celebrate and the belief we proclaim is a sign of hope. It is God’s desire that all may share in His kingdom, body and soul. Mary points the way. Her obedience to God teaches us to do the same. As we mark this holy day may we understand and appreciate more fully its meaning.
This year the Assumption of Mary is not an obligated holy day since it falls on Saturday. Furthermore we are all dispensed because of the health and safety measures in place during this time. Mass of the Assumption will be at 8:00 am on Saturday morning.
Father Jeff
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