A Message from Fr. Anthony: Feast of the Assumption

My Dear Parishioners:

As we approach the Feast of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary on August 15th, we reflect on the profound significance of this holy day in our Catholic faith. The Assumption celebrates Mary being taken up body and soul into heavenly glory, a doctrine rooted in the Church’s tradition and officially defined by Pope Pius XII in 1950.

Catholics believe in the Assumption of Mary based on her unique role in salvation history as the Mother of God and the first disciple of Christ. Her immaculate conception and sinless life set her apart, making her assumption into heaven fitting and proper. As we read in the Gospel of Luke, Mary proclaimed, “My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior” (Luke 1:46-47). Her life was a testament to perfect faith and obedience to God’s will.

Scriptural foundations for the Assumption can be seen in passages such as Revelation 12:1, where the woman “clothed with the sun, with the moon under her feet, and on her head a crown of twelve stars” is interpreted by many as Mary, who is assumed into heaven. Additionally, Psalm 132:8 says, “Arise, Lord, and come to your resting place, you and the ark of your might.” Mary, seen as the new Ark of the Covenant, is believed to have been taken up to her resting place in heaven.

The Assumption also signifies the hope of resurrection and eternal life promised to all faithful followers of Christ. This belief is supported by Jesus’ promise in John 14:3, “And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am.” St. Paul also affirms this hope in 1 Corinthians 15:22-23, “For as in Adam all die, so in Christ all will be made alive. But each in turn: Christ, the firstfruits; then, when he comes, those who belong to him.”

Attending Mass on this solemnity is an obligation for Catholics because it is a Holy Day of Obligation, as defined by the Church. This day calls us to honor Mary, our heavenly mother, and to seek her intercession. By participating in the Eucharistic celebration, we not only express our devotion but also renew our commitment to living out our faith with the same humility and trust that Mary demonstrated.

The Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC 2181) reminds us of the importance of attending Mass on Holy Days of Obligation: “The Sunday Eucharist is the foundation and confirmation of all Christian practice. For this reason, the faithful are obliged to participate in the Eucharist on days of obligation, unless excused for a serious reason.” Attending Mass on the Feast of the Assumption is a way to grow in our relationship with God and to receive the grace needed to live out our Christian calling.

Let us come together as a parish family to celebrate this glorious event, honoring Mary and seeking her intercession. By participating in the Eucharistic celebration, we renew our commitment to living out our faith with the same humility, trust, and devotion exemplified by the Blessed Virgin Mary.

Holy Day Masses on August 15, are 12:10 pm & 7 pm.  We will have the room to accommodate everyone!

Father Anthony