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Most Rev. Robert J. CarlsonFeast of the Assumption of Mary (Rite of Candidacy) - Aug. 15, 2006Today is the Feast of the Assumption of Mary and the patronal feast of our diocese. The celebration of this feast dates back to before the year 500 in Palestine and the Doctrine of the Assumption is found in the writings of the early Church Fathers. There are two places that claim to be the place where this took place – Jerusalem and Ephesus – although there is no mention of the feast being celebrated in Jerusalem in early Church writings. Pius XII declares in a doctrine of the Church in 1950. One women reflected on the feast with these words: "Mary – the bearer of God who was the first and best disciple of her Son – lived a long life in the presence of God. She experienced a resurrection after falling asleep in death (called Dormitian) and a transport to heaven. This is the joy that awaits all the disciples of Jesus whose bodies will rise at the end of time." As you know, Mary being taken into heaven is also the fourth Glorious Mystery of the Rosary. Popular piety in Marian art frequently represents the Virgin in the midst of clouds aloft with angels. Mary, who in response to the Angel Gabriel said, "Be it done to me according to your word," is the perfect example for those who will receive Candidacy today as they cultivate more fully their vocation in preparation for Ordination to the (transitional) Diaconate and Priesthood for the service to the Church of Saginaw. Compelled by the love of Christ and strengthened b the Holy Spirit this demands theological training but even more importantly growth in pastoral sensitivity and spiritual growth. The words of the Blessed Mother at Cana comes to mind: "Do whatever he tells you." It is this way we respond daily and ever anew to the invitation to follow Him. In a special way this day, you are invited to ask the Blessed Mother to intercede for you before the throne of God. Mary, in a special way, is the mother of priests and certainly for those preparing for priesthood leading us to the love of Jesus Christ. In your future priestly lives as you strive for holiness, may you pray for the grace that your whole being proclaims the greatness of the Lord. - Given at St. Stanislaus Kostka Parish in Bay City. Also celebrated was the Rite of Candidacy for six diocesan seminarians: Richard Budd, Christopher Comen, Nicholas Coffarro, Denis Heames, Thai Hung Nguyen, and William Spencer. | ||||||
