Dear members of Mount Lilydale Mercy College community,
This week we, as a College, were lucky enough to celebrate the Feast of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary which is one of two non-Sunday Holy days of Obligation that still exist within the Catholic Church. The second being The Feast of the Nativity of our Lord Jesus Christ (Christmas Day). A Holy day of Obligation, as against a holiday of obligation, requires us to attend Mass and we were privileged to be led in Mass by Father Dean Bradbury.
In the tapestry of religious observances, the Feast of the Assumption stands as a beacon of spiritual significance and historical resonance. Celebrated annually on 15 August, this solemn feast commemorates that the Virgin Mary, at the end of her earthly life, was assumed, body and soul, into heaven. Beyond its theological importance, the feast also holds a unique place in our hearts due to its rich historical background and enduring cultural impact.
The roots of the Feast of the Assumption can be traced back to early Christian traditions, although the feast wasn't formally established until much later. The earliest references to the assumption of Mary can be found in very early texts, whose writings did not all become part of the official canon of scripture.
One of the key figures in the development of the feast's significance was St John of Damascus, a theologian from the eighth century. His writings greatly contributed to the understanding of Mary's role in salvation history, and his contributions laid the foundation for the eventual establishment of the Feast of the Assumption.
In 1950, Pope Pius XII officially defined the Assumption as a dogma of the Catholic faith through the apostolic constitution ‘Munificentissimus Deus’. This declaration solidified the belief in the Assumption as an essential tenet of Catholic doctrine. The Pope's proclamation marked a significant moment in the Church's history and further elevated the importance of Mary's role within our faith.
The Assumption of Mary holds deep theological importance within Catholic doctrine. The belief that Mary was assumed into heaven underscores her unique role in salvation and her intimate connection with her son, Jesus Christ. This event highlights the sanctity of Mary's life and her unwavering faithfulness to God's divine plan.
Moreover, the Assumption is a testament to the resurrection of the body and the hope of eternal life. It is a celebration of the victory over death and a reminder of the promise of salvation for all believers. The feast emphasises the physicality of human existence and the ultimate destiny of believers to be reunited with God in body and soul.
Even in today's rapidly changing world, the Feast of the Assumption continues to hold its significance. Amid the challenges and uncertainties of life, the feast offers a message of hope, reminding believers of the eternal rewards that await them. It encourages reflection on the spiritual journey and the importance of living a life dedicated to faith, virtue and service to others.
As we commemorate the Feast of the Assumption this year, let us reflect on its historical origins, its theological profundity, and its enduring impact on our culture. The Feast of the Assumption also highlights for the me the very special nature of the relationship between Jesus and his mother along with her enduring support of his ministry. It reminds me how dedicated mothers are to their children and the sacrifice that mothers make on a daily basis. The Feast highlights a life of service. I often wonder how Mary must have felt as she watched her son Jesus go about his life and ministry. Can you imagine the conversations, both private and public, that must have occurred? I imagine the strength that she provided to Jesus at those times when he wavered.
May this feast serve as a source of inspiration and a reminder of the transformative power of faith and love in our lives. May we continue to celebrate it for the very special day that it is.
May we hold the service of all women in our lives so very close to our hearts and encourage them to continue it in strength, knowing that difficulty will always await.
Personal Pars
In the last fortnight we have become aware of the passing of several community members. May their families find strength and love at this time. May Erminio Iacobucci (nonno to Jessica P in Year 10) and Warren Hoiles (grandfather to Cody H in Year 9) rest in peace.
God bless
Philip A Morison
