Assumption of Mary: A Guide to Celebrate the Holy Day

The Assumption of Mary is a dogma of the Catholic Church that states that Mary, the mother of Jesus, was taken up body and soul into heaven at the end of her life. This means that she did not experience death or decay, but was preserved from sin and its effects by God's grace. The Assumption of Mary is also known as the Dormition (falling asleep) in Eastern Christianity, which emphasizes that Mary died a natural death before being assumed into heaven.

The Assumption of Mary is celebrated on August 15 every year in most countries. However, some countries may transfer the feast day to a different date if it falls on a Saturday or a Monday. For example, in 2023, the Assumption of Mary will be celebrated on Monday, August 15 in Canada, but on Sunday, August 20 in Australia.

No, the Assumption of Mary does not change every year. It is always celebrated on August 15, unless it is moved to another date by the local bishops for pastoral reasons.

The belief in the Assumption of Mary has its roots in the early Christian tradition and writings. The earliest evidence of this belief can be found in apocryphal texts from the 4th and 5th centuries, such as the Transitus Mariae (The Passing of Mary), which describe Mary's death and assumption into heaven. The feast day of the Assumption was also established in some churches by the 6th century.

However, it was not until 1950 that Pope Pius XII officially defined the dogma of the Assumption in his apostolic constitution Munificentissimus Deus (The Most Bountiful God). He declared that "the Immaculate Mother of God, the ever Virgin Mary, having completed the course of her earthly life, was assumed body and soul into heavenly glory." He based his declaration on the unanimous consent of the bishops and faithful, as well as on the scriptural and theological arguments that support this doctrine

If you want to celebrate the Assumption of Mary with your loved ones, you might want to consider giving them some thoughtful and meaningful gifts that reflect your faith and devotion. Here are some of the best gift ideas for this holy day:

Rosary

A rosary is a traditional Catholic prayer tool that consists of beads and a cross. It is used to meditate on the mysteries of Christ's life and Mary's role in salvation history. A rosary can be a beautiful and personal gift for someone who loves to pray or wants to grow closer to God and Mary.

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Statue or icon of Mary

A statue or icon of Mary is a visual representation of her image and attributes. It can be a source of inspiration and comfort for those who venerate her. You can choose a statue or icon that depicts Mary in her various titles and apparitions, such as Our Lady of Lourdes, Our Lady of Fatima, or Our Lady of Guadalupe.

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Book or DVD about Mary

A book or DVD about Mary can be a great way to learn more about her life, teachings, and miracles. You can find books or DVDs that cover various aspects of Marian theology, spirituality, history, and culture. Some examples are Hail Holy Queen by Scott Hahn, The World's First Love by Fulton Sheen, and Mary of Nazareth by Ignatius Press.

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Bouquet of flowers

A bouquet of flowers is a simple and elegant gift that can express your love and admiration for Mary. Flowers are often associated with Mary, as they symbolize her beauty, purity, and grace. You can choose flowers that have a special meaning or connection to Mary, such as roses, lilies, marigolds, or carnations.

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Scapular

A scapular is a sacramental that consists of two pieces of cloth joined by strings that are worn over the shoulders. It is a sign of consecration to Mary and a pledge of her protection and intercession. There are different types of scapulars, such as the brown scapular of Our Lady of Mount Carmel, the green scapular of the Immaculate Heart of Mary, or the blue scapular of the Immaculate Conception.

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Medal or pendant of Mary

Medal or pendant of Mary is a simple but meaningful way to express your love and trust in her. You can find medals or pendants that feature her image or symbols, such as the Miraculous Medal, the M de Maria, or the Marian Cross.

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Candle or incense

A candle or incense can create a peaceful and prayerful atmosphere in your home or office. You can choose one that has a fragrance or color associated with Mary, such as rose, lily, blue, or white.

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Music CD or playlist

Music CD or playlist can fill your ears and heart with songs that praise and honor Mary. You can find music from different genres, languages, and cultures that express devotion to her, such as hymns, chants, folk songs, or contemporary songs.

Pilgrimage or retreat

Pilgrimage or retreat is a great way to deepen your relationship with Mary and experience her presence and guidance in your life. You can visit a shrine or sanctuary dedicated to her, such as Lourdes in France, Fatima in Portugal, or Guadalupe in Mexico, or join a retreat that focuses on her spirituality and teachings.

Donation to a charity

Donation to a charity is a generous and noble gift that reflects Mary's compassion and service for others. You can support a cause that aligns with her values and mission, such as helping the poor, the sick, the unborn, the elderly, or the oppressed.

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What is the difference between the Assumption and the Ascension?

The Assumption is the belief that Mary was taken up body and soul into heaven at the end of her life. The Ascension is the belief that Jesus ascended into heaven forty days after his resurrection. Both events are celebrated as feast days in the Catholic Church, but they are not the same.

Why is the Assumption of Mary important?

The Assumption of Mary is important because it shows the dignity and destiny of Mary as the mother of God and the queen of heaven. It also shows the hope and promise of our own resurrection and glorification at the end of time. The Assumption of Mary is a sign of God's love and mercy for his faithful people.

How do Catholics celebrate the Assumption of Mary?

Catholics celebrate the Assumption of Mary by attending Mass, praying the rosary, honoring Mary with flowers and candles, participating in processions and pilgrimages, and giving gifts to their loved ones. Some countries also have cultural traditions and customs that mark this feast day, such as fireworks, parades, dances, and festivals.

What are some symbols of the Assumption of Mary?

Some symbols of the Assumption of Mary are:

• Moon: The moon represents Mary's immaculate conception and perpetual virginity. It also symbolizes her role as the reflection of Christ's light in the world.
• Stars: The stars represent Mary's coronation as the queen of heaven and earth. They also symbolize her virtues and merits that shine brightly in the sky.
• Crown: The crown represents Mary's sovereignty and authority over all creation. It also symbolizes her glory and honor that God bestowed upon her.
• Palm branch: The palm branch represents Mary's victory over sin and death. It also symbolizes her martyrdom and fidelity to God's will.

What are some prayers for the Assumption of Mary?

Some prayers for the Assumption of Mary are:

• Hail Mary: This is the most common and popular prayer to Mary. It consists of three parts: the angelic salutation, the Elizabethan salutation, and a petition for intercession.
• Magnificat: This is the prayer that Mary uttered when she visited her cousin Elizabeth. It is a song of praise and thanksgiving to God for his mighty deeds.
• Litany of Loreto: This is a series of invocations to Mary under various titles and attributes. It is a prayer of petition and devotion to Mary.
• Memorare: This is a prayer that expresses confidence and trust in Mary's powerful intercession. It is attributed to St. Bernard of Clairvaux.

The Assumption of Mary is a doctrine that affirms the bodily taking up of the Virgin Mary into heaven at the end of her earthly life. It is based on the belief that Mary, as the mother of Jesus Christ, was preserved from sin and corruption, and therefore did not undergo the decay of death. Join with RetailCoupons.com for more information.