Every 15 August, Christians around the world gather to celebrate the Assumption of the Holy Mary. This event, rich in meaning, recalls Mary's ascent to heaven, a celebration of her purity and her unique role in the divine plan. In this article, we explore the different facets of the Assumption, its meaning, how it is celebrated in Lourdes and elsewhere, and how it differs from the Ascension of Christ.
What is the meaning of the Assumption?
The Assumption of the Holy Mary, celebrated on 15 August, is one of the four Marian dogmas of the Catholic Church. This dogma, proclaimed by Pope Pius XII in 1950, affirms that Mary, at the end of her earthly life, was taken up body and soul into heaven. The Assumption symbolises Mary's victory over sin and death, and her direct entry into divine glory.
In contrast to the Ascension of Jesus, who ascended by his own divine power, the Assumption is an elevation by God. It is an act of divine grace, in which Mary is assumed into heaven, in recognition of her unique role as Mother of God.
Difference between the Assumption and the Ascension
It is important to distinguish between the Assumption of the Holy Mary and the Ascension of Christ. Although both terms evoke an ascent to heaven, their nature is different. The Ascension of Jesus, celebrated 40 days after Easter, is the act by which Jesus ascends into heaven by his own divine power. In contrast, Mary's Assumption is a divine action in which she is taken to heaven by God himself.
This distinction underlines the difference between the divine nature of Christ and the human nature of Mary, while at the same time highlighting the exceptional grace granted to the Mother of Jesus.
Celebration of the Assumption on 15 August
15 August is a public holiday in many Catholic countries, marked by processions, solemn masses and pilgrimages. Lourdes, the place where the Holy Mary appeared, is one of the most important pilgrimage centres for this feast. Believers gather to honour Mary, implore her intercession and celebrate her ascent to heaven.
The day is also an opportunity to celebrate the Virgin Mary's pilgrimage to Lourdes.
This day is also an opportunity to celebrate all those with the first name of Mary, adding a festive and community dimension to this religious event. Torchlight processions, particularly in Lourdes, illuminate this festival with a spiritual light and strengthen the faith of those taking part.
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Biblical verses and the Assumption
Although the Assumption of Mary is not explicitly mentioned in the Bible, it is based on the tradition and faith of the Church. Certain verses, such as Revelation 12:1, which speaks of the "woman clothed with the sun", are interpreted by theologians as a reference to Mary and her Assumption. Other passages, referring to Mary's royalty and purity, support this belief.
To deepen your understanding of the Assumption, we invite you to read our previous article on What is the Assumption?.
Lourdes, shrine of the Assumption
Lourdes, with its rich history of Marian apparitions, is a place of pilgrimage par excellence for celebrating the Assumption. The shrine, located at the foot of the Pyrenees, attracts millions of pilgrims from all over the world every year. The unique atmosphere of this place, combining devotion, healing and natural beauty, makes it a privileged place to recharge one's spiritual batteries.
The Assumption celebrations in Lourdes
On 15 August, Lourdes vibrates to the rhythm of the celebrations in honour of the Holy Mary. Among the highlights of these days are:
- The solemn mass celebrated at the Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary.
- Time for prayer and meditation at the grotto of Massabielle.
- Activities for families and young people.
Why choose Lourdes for your pilgrimage?
The Assumption pilgrimage to Lourdes is a unique experience that will enable you to:
- Meet other pilgrims and share your faith.
- **Book your accommodation** in advance, especially if you come during the Assumption period.
Prepare your pilgrimage to Lourdes
To make the most of your pilgrimage to Lourdes, here are a few practical tips:
Set of 5 procession candle torches in French, Italian, Spanish 1€
Lot of 5 Lourdes procession candles 40 x 1,5 cm 2€
Lot of two Lourdes Apparition candles 18cm 2,70€
Come and experience the Assumption at Lourdes!
Lourdes welcomes you with open arms to celebrate the Assumption of the Holy Mary. Book your pilgrimage now and let yourself be carried away by the faith and devotion of thousands of pilgrims.
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