THE DOCTRINE OF MARY’S ASSUMPTION INTO HEAVEN

Though not mentioned in the Scriptures it appears in other early Christian writings. It became widespread in the fifth century when a fierce debate about how to account for Christ’s divinity and humanity arose. The description of Mary as the mother of God affirmed both his divinity and the earthy reality of his human life. It also deepened devotion to Mary as mother, as one who was without sin, as someone to whom we could pray, and as example of the Christian life. In this world belief that Mary was taken into heaven, either before or after her death, was natural. Like Son, like mother. In the Western Church Mary was believed to have been taken to heaven before her death. In the Eastern Church she was believed to have died and then to have been taken to heaven. The belief was expressed in devotions, in liturgical celebration, in art and in theological exploration. It was part of Catholic life. ............. The Feast of the Assumption enlivens our hope that we shall be with Christ as Mary now is. It promises that after the struggles and losses of this life that we shall find happiness and companionship with God. (Fr Andrew Hamilton, SJ australiancatholics.org.au) The Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary is a day of obligation. As such the Liturgy Committee has made the time for this Mass for 6pm this Monday to give workers the opportunity to attend. All attending the Mass are invited to stay back for a soup night in the Ned Kenny Centre. Four delicious soups will be on offer. How could you resist?