Bishop Gruss' message on the Solemnity of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary
(Video Recorded 2021)
Audio Recording Below
The Solemnity of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary is a significant feast in the Catholic Church. It commemorates the belief that Mary, the Mother of God, was taken up body and soul into Heaven. This event is seen as the highest fruit of Christ's redemption and a testimony to the effectiveness of His salvific work. The Assumption of Mary is also understood as a pledge of the future participation of all members of the Church in the glory of the Risen Christ. It is a feast that signifies the fulfillment of the final hope of all believers, as they too are destined for glorification.
The Assumption of Mary is closely connected to the Mystery of the Incarnation. When God became man in Jesus Christ, He depended on the freely spoken "yes" of Mary, who consented to be the Mother of God. Mary's "yes" allowed God to enter the world and become incarnate. Thus, Mary is deeply involved in the Mystery of the Incarnation and our salvation. The Incarnation, the sacrifice of Christ on the Cross, and the priesthood are all interconnected, and Mary is at the heart of this mystery.
The Assumption of Mary is a sign of hope and comfort for the pilgrim People of God. It is a reminder that death is not the end and that there is a destiny of fullness and blessedness awaiting believers. Mary's Assumption also serves as a luminous sign of hope in a world that often forgets the spiritual reality of life and the existence of God.
Learn more at the following links:
https://www.nationalshrine.org/blog/why-we-celebrate-the-solemnity-of-the-assumption/