The Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary: History, Meaning, and Why Catholics Celebrate It

Every August 15th, the Catholic Church pauses to celebrate one of the most beautiful mysteries in the life of Mary: The Assumption—the moment our Blessed Mother was taken body and soul into Heaven.

But if you’re anything like me, you might’ve grown up hearing about this feast without really knowing what it meant—or why it’s such a big deal.

Spoiler alert: it is a big deal. The Assumption is a powerful reminder of our future glory, Mary’s unique role in salvation history, and the hope that Heaven is our true home.

So let’s dive into the history, meaning, and celebration of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary—and how it can transform the way you live your faith today.

What Is the Assumption of Mary?

The Assumption refers to the Catholic belief that at the end of her earthly life, the Virgin Mary was assumed—body and soul—into Heaven. Unlike Jesus, who ascended into Heaven by His own divine power, Mary was assumed by the grace of God.

This teaching is dogma—meaning it’s an essential belief of the Catholic faith, proclaimed by Pope Pius XII in 1950 through the apostolic constitution Munificentissimus Deus.

But here's the beautiful thing: although it wasn’t dogmatically declared until the 20th century, the Assumption had been believed and celebrated by the Church for centuries.

The History: Where Did This Belief Come From?

1. Early Christian Tradition

Even though Scripture doesn’t explicitly describe the Assumption, early Christians believed that Mary’s body was not left to decay in the earth. No grave or tomb for her has ever been claimed. Instead, the early Church Fathers spoke of her being taken to Heaven in glory.

Writings from saints like St. John Damascene (8th century) mention the Apostles witnessing Mary being assumed into Heaven. Although these stories aren’t in the Bible, they reflect a long-standing and universal Christian belief.

2. Eastern Christianity’s “Dormition”

In the Eastern Catholic and Orthodox Churches, the feast is known as the Dormition of the Theotokos, meaning “the falling asleep of the Mother of God.” This name emphasizes that Mary didn’t suffer the decay of death, but peacefully transitioned to eternal life.

The East and West both held the same core belief: Mary didn’t stay in the grave—God brought her to Heaven.

3. Declared Dogma in 1950

After centuries of devotion, the Assumption was officially defined as dogma on November 1, 1950, by Pope Pius XII. In Munificentissimus Deus, he declared:

“The Immaculate Mother of God, the ever Virgin Mary, having completed the course of her earthly life, was assumed body and soul into heavenly glory.”

Notice how he doesn’t specify whether Mary actually died—only that she completed her earthly life. This leaves room for theological reflection, but the truth remains the same: Mary is in Heaven, body and soul.

What Does the Assumption Mean for Us?

Now let’s get into the good stuff. Why does this matter in your daily life?

1. Mary Leads the Way

Mary’s Assumption is a preview of our own future. Because of Christ’s Resurrection, we, too, have the hope of bodily resurrection. Mary’s body being glorified reminds us that Heaven isn’t just a spiritual reality—it’s a place where we will be fully ourselves, body and soul, forever.

It’s like God is showing us: This is what I want for you, too.

2. A Triumph Over Sin and Death

Mary was conceived without sin, and she lived her life fully surrendered to God’s will. Because of that, she didn’t experience the corruption of death. Her Assumption shows us what it looks like to live a life of holiness that leads to eternal glory.

She is the perfect model of discipleship—and the Assumption is proof that our “yes” to God has eternal rewards.

3. Heaven Is Real

In a world that constantly tries to make faith abstract or symbolic, the Assumption reminds us that Heaven is real, tangible, and home. Mary’s Assumption gives us the courage to keep going, especially in suffering. If she’s in Heaven, so can we be.

Why Do Catholics Celebrate the Assumption?

Let’s be honest—Catholics love a good feast day. But the celebration of the Assumption isn’t just about tradition. It’s a deeply spiritual and hope-filled moment for the Church.

1. It’s a Holy Day of Obligation

In many parts of the world (including the U.S.), August 15 is a Holy Day of Obligation, which means Catholics are required to attend Mass—just like a Sunday.

Why? Because this feast isn’t optional—it’s central to our understanding of Mary’s role in salvation and our own eternal destiny.

2. It Honors Mary’s Role in the Church

Mary isn’t just Jesus’s mom—she’s our spiritual mother, too. The Assumption honors the truth that God lifted her up because of her faith, humility, and obedience. When we celebrate her, we’re also celebrating the power of a life lived for God.

3. It Unites Heaven and Earth

The Church teaches that Mary was assumed into Heaven and crowned Queen. When we honor her on this day, we join the communion of saints in Heaven—making the Assumption a feast that unites the whole Church.

How You Can Celebrate the Assumption

Whether you’re brand new to this feast or have been celebrating it for years, there are so many beautiful ways to live it out:

🕊️ 1. Go to Mass

This is the most important way to honor Mary on this day. Receive the Eucharist and reflect on Mary’s presence in your life and in the Church.

🕯️ 2. Pray the Glorious Mysteries

The fourth Glorious Mystery is the Assumption! Pull out your Rosary and enter into this mystery with Mary.

🪻 3. Create a Marian Space in Your Home

Decorate a prayer space with flowers, candles, and your favorite Marian statue or icon. Light a candle and spend time in prayer, asking Mary to intercede for you.

💙 4. Wear Marian Jewelry

Wearing a Miraculous Medal necklace or a piece of Marian-inspired jewelry is a beautiful way to stay connected to Our Lady throughout the day. It’s a subtle but powerful way to say, “Mary, be with me.”

👉 Shop the Miraculous Medal Collection

🍇 5. Make It a Feast (Literally)

Prepare a special meal or treat for your family. Incorporate blue and white decor (Mary’s colors), or cook a traditional Assumption Day recipe like fresh fruits and grape dishes—symbols of the harvest and Mary's "first fruits" of Heaven.

📿 6. Consecrate Yourself to Mary

This feast is a perfect day to start or renew your Marian consecration—a devotion where you entrust yourself fully to Jesus through Mary. Consider doing the 33-day preparation leading up to another Marian feast.

Mary’s Assumption and Your Daily Life

You might be wondering: What does all this have to do with my job, my stress, my goals, my struggles?

Everything.

Because Mary’s Assumption reminds you that:

• Your body matters—God created it, and He will glorify it

• Your suffering is not the end of the story

• Your yes to God, even in the smallest things, is seen and remembered

• Your future is Heaven, and Mary is already there, interceding for you

This feast is about hope. And we could all use a little more of that, right?

Final Thoughts: The Assumption as a Foretaste of Heaven

The Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary isn’t just about what happened to her. It’s about what God wants to do in us.

Mary went first so we could follow.

Her Assumption reminds us that holiness is possible. That Heaven is our home. And that saying "yes" to God—over and over again—will never go unnoticed.

So on August 15, light a candle, go to Mass, wear your Marian necklace, and celebrate like the daughter (or son) of the Queen that you are. Because one day, you’ll be in Heaven too—body and soul—just like her.

And that’s a reason to celebrate.