Assumption of Mary

Assumption of Mary History

The Observance of the Assumption of Mary is a significant event in the Christian calendar, particularly for those of the Roman Catholic, Eastern Orthodox, and Eastern Catholic faiths. This holy day commemorates the belief that the bodily and spiritual ascension of the Virgin Mary into heaven occurred at the end of her earthly life. Often seen as a celebration of Mary's close relationship with God and her role as a powerful intercessor for the faithful, this occasion also emphasizes the resurrection of the body and the eternal life promised to those who follow Christ.

In the United States, the Assumption of Mary has a rich history that dates back to the earliest European settlers. Both Spanish and French Catholics established missions and communities that honored the Virgin Mary, and as the country grew, so did the devotion to this aspect of their faith. Celebrating the Assumption of Mary serves as a reminder of the cultural heritage, spiritual beliefs, and connection to a larger global community of faith.

The Observance of the Assumption of Mary in America can take many forms, from formal masses and liturgical services to processions and community gatherings. Church services often include a focus on the themes of humility, resurrection, and eternal life, while public events may highlight the diverse cultural expressions of this important day. In some parts of the U.S., such as Chicago, elaborate feasts and processions are held within Italian, Portuguese, and Polish neighborhoods to honor the occasion. The Assumption of Mary is observed annually on August 15th.

Assumption of Mary facts

• The belief in the Assumption underscores the idea of Mary's special place in the plan of salvation. Because she was the mother of Jesus, it is believed that she was free from original sin and did not undergo bodily decay after death.
• In the Roman Catholic Church, the Assumption is considered a dogma, an official and binding doctrine. This dogma was declared by Pope Pius XII in 1950.
• The Burial of the Virgin, a 12th century apocryphal account by St. John the Theologian, is one of the first known written accounts narrating the death of Mary and her resurrection and assumption, though it's not recognized as canonical by the Church.
• The Assumption of Mary isn't in the Bible. The theology it is based upon is from several early church documents and sermons. The Orthodox Church continued the tradition, but it didn't become doctrine in the Roman Catholic Church until 1950 when Pope Pius XII declared the belief infallible.
• Thomas was the only disciple who purportedly saw Mary's ascension into heaven. In a reversal of his story in scripture, the other disciples didn't believe him at first. Mary dropped her girdle when she reached heaven, and Thomas caught it.
• The Feast of the Assumption of Mary is a high feast Day in the Roman Catholic Church and the Orthodox Church. The day venerates the assumption into heaven of Mary, the mother of Jesus. It is held on August 15. In the Orthodox tradition, the feast, called the Dormition of the Theotokos, is held the same date, although the day may be later for churches that follow the Gregorian calendar.

In the News and Trending in the US for Assumption of Mary

Top things to do in the US for Assumption of Mary

• Attend an Orthodox Church during the Feast of the Assumption to see the blessing of flowers.
• Historically, both flowers and herbs are brought to church as offerings or to be blessed during the Feast of the Assumption. Start an herb garden or plant some bulbs to bloom in spring in honor of Mary.
• The Assumption of Mary is a popular subject in Christian art. One of the most famous is The Assumption of the Virgin, by El Greco and available for viewing in the Art Institute of Chicago. See if your local art museum has paintings of the Assumption.
• Sing or Listen to a rendition of "Ave Maria". One of the more popular renditions is by Luciano Pavarotti - found on YouTube here:
• Many faithful in the Orthodox Church will also be breaking a two-week fast after the service honoring the Assumption of Mary. If you are fasting attend a community meal offered by many Orthodox Churches.