The Feast of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary is always a day of joy, but this year’s celebration deeply impacted me with graces I felt called to share.

The Joy of the Entrance Antiphon

Mass began with the words:

“Let us all rejoice in the Lord, as we celebrate the feast day in honor of the Virgin Mary, at whose Assumption the Angels rejoice and praise the Son of God.”

This reminded me that the angels honor Mary in unity with her Son, Jesus, and we, too, are invited to rejoice in the mystery of her Assumption — her being taken body and soul into Heaven.

Revelation’s Imagery of Mary

The first reading, from Revelation 12, describes a woman clothed with the sun and a dragon waiting to devour her child. The dragon’s jeweled crowns struck me as a symbol of the false values our society often elevates. Just as God protected Mary and Jesus, we can “protect” their honor by standing firm in faith, prayer, and witness.

Why Catholics Honor Mary

The psalm reminded me of the question Catholics often face: Why do we honor Mary? The answer is simple — she is the Mother of God and played a unique role in salvation history. We do not worship her, but we honor her, asking her to intercede for us. As women, especially, we can look to Mary as an example of humility, courage, and devotion to God’s will.

The Magnificat: Mary’s Humility

Hearing the Magnificat proclaimed was the highlight for me:

“My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord; my spirit rejoices in God my Savior. For he has looked with favor on his lowly servant.”

Mary’s first instinct in her exaltation was humility and praise. I long to imitate her in this, recognizing that all my gifts, talents, and blessings are from God.

A Personal Grace

This year, I was blessed to bring up the gifts with my mom during Mass. As we processed, the song The Hail Mary was sung, and a baby’s gaze met mine — it felt like Jesus himself was looking at me. Later, John Michael Talbot’s musical Magnificat echoed through the church during my prayer after Communion, sealing the graces I had received.

Final Reflection

The Feast of the Assumption reminded me of God’s closeness through Mary’s example. She is our mother, our intercessor, and our model of humility. My prayer is that Mary will bestow her graces upon you as she did for me during this beautiful feast.