The Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, which we celebrate today, is a dogmatic pronouncement of the Church’s Magisterium. Hence, it is a belief binding on all Catholics. The doctrine states that, ‘Mary, the Immaculate Mother of God and ever virgin, after finishing the course of her life on earth, was taken up body and soul into heaven’. This doctrine is one which is fitting to her, whom God has honoured with such favours and graces above all created beings. Apart from being a revealed teaching, Mary’s assumption also appeals to human reasoning; for as the Virgin Mother of Christ, who was spotless throughout her entire life, it is befitting that she be the first to enjoy the rest which her Son, our Lord Jesus Christ promised to all those who follow him. The assumption of Mary gives us the assurance that the human body is not sinful in itself again, since it has been sanctified by the resurrection of Christ. So, from the Blessed Virgin, who has gone before us, let us ask intercession today, that we too may experience the glorification of our bodies when our days in the world are ended.

PRAYER: Lord Jesus, through the merits of your Blessed Mother, may we be granted the grace to experience your beatific vision in heaven. Amen