The Feast of the Assumption

Today is the feast of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary. The mother of Jesus, having completed the course of her earthly life, was assumed body and soul into heavenly glory (Munificentissimus Deus). Today is also a Holy Day of Obligation for Catholics so this means go to Mass as if it were a Sunday. Now do not confuse this with the word 'ascend.' Mary did not ascend into heaven for the term ascend would imply that she did it by her own power. Nah. She was 'assumed.' The word 'assume' would imply that she went up into heaven by the power of someone else (God).

Now, we're not restricted by the bible nor are we confused. We have it all, just like a mall. We are integrated and complete. That is the Catholic Church.

And so it will be difficult to explain the Assumption of Mary through the Bible. The assumption has more of the oral tradition flavor. It is only fitting for she is the mother of God. Why would Jesus let her rot? One who, in the first place, is immaculate, conceived without sin?

In the Eastern Catholic church as well as the Easter Orthodox Church, August 15th is when they celebrate the "Dormition of the Theotokos" or the Falling Asleep of the Mother of God. This is preceded by a two week fast from meat and dairy products. They believe that Mary died a natural death and was resurrected on the third day and was taken up into heaven, body and soul.

Whether she died or not is completely unknown and has not been infallibly stated. However, the most important part is that she was taken up to heaven both body and soul. This is our ultimate end. The assumption is an example of what is to come for the faithful. Do not forget that it is not only our souls that will be in heaven. Our (glorified) bodies will be there too.