On August 15 each year, we celebrate the Assumption of Mary at Mass. It’s a joyful holy day of obligation. The Assumption celebrates that Mary was taken body and soul into heaven at the end of her earthly life. This gives us believers hope and joy in many ways, because where Mary has gone, we can follow!
1. Hope in the Resurrection: The Assumption of Mary serves as a powerful reminder of the hope of the resurrection and the promise of eternal life for all believers. Mary's assumption into heaven demonstrates that death is not the end but rather a passage to eternal life with God. This belief gives us that, like Mary, we too will be raised up to be with God in glory after death.
2. Joy in the Triumph of Goodness: The Assumption of Mary is a celebration of the triumph of goodness and the victory of God's grace over sin and death. Mary's assumption into heaven is a testament to her holiness and purity, as well as God's favor and love for her. This event brings joy to us as we witness the fulfillment of God's promises and the exaltation of Mary as the Mother of God.
3. Intercession and Comfort: Mary's Assumption also brings comfort and joy to us through her continued intercession and presence in heaven. As the Queen of Heaven and the Mother of God, Mary intercedes for her children on earth and offer comfort, guidance, and protection to all who turn to her in prayer. Mary's ongoing care and intercession brings hope and joy to us, knowing that we have a loving and compassionate Mother in heaven.
4. Unity with Christ: The Assumption of Mary highlights her unique and intimate union with Christ, as she is assumed body and soul into heaven to be with her Son for all eternity. This unity with Christ brings us hope and joy, as we are reminded of the closeness and connection we have with Jesus through Mary. The Assumption underscores the belief in the communion of saints and the unity of the Church, as all the faithful are united in Christ and share in the hope of eternal life.
Overall, the Assumption of Mary gives us hope and joy by affirming the promise of the resurrection, celebrating the triumph of goodness, offering comfort and intercession, and highlighting the unity with Christ that we share through Mary. Mary's assumption into heaven inspires hope and joy in the our hearts, and reminds us of God's inexhaustible love and mercy, and the His promise of eternal life with Him.
We pray:
Hail, Holy Queen, Mother of Mercy, our life, our sweetness, and our hope.
To thee do we cry, poor banished children of Eve.
To thee do we send up our sighs, mourning and weeping in this valley of tears.
Turn then, most gracious Advocate, thine eyes of mercy toward us,
and after this our exile show unto us the blessed fruit of thy womb, Jesus.
O clement, O loving, O sweet Virgin Mary.
Pray for us, O Holy Mother of God, that we may be made worthy of the promises of Christ. Amen.
John Wright
Director of Worship