Assumption of Mary

This article is about the theological concept. For churches with this dedication, see Church of the Assumption. For works of art on this subject, see Assumption of Mary in art.

The Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary
A famous treatment in Western art, Titian's Assumption, 1516–1518
Also called
  • The Assumption
  • Falling Asleep of the Blessed Virgin Mary
Observed by
TypeChristian
SignificanceThe bodily taking up of Mary, the mother of Jesus into Heaven
ObservancesAttending Mass or service, blessing of herbs
Date
FrequencyAnnual

The Assumption of Mary is a Catholic dogma that Mary, at the end of her earthly life, was taken body and soul into heaven, defined by Pope Pius XII on 1 November 1950 in his apostolic constitution Munificentissimus Deus. It is celebrated on 15 August.

It leaves open the question of whether Mary died or whether she was raised to eternal life without bodily death.

The equivalent belief in the Eastern Christianity is the Dormition of the Mother of God or the "Falling Asleep of the Mother of God". In the Lutheran Churches, 15 August is celebrated as the Feast of St. Mary. A number of Anglican denominations observe 15 August under various titles, including the Feast of Saint Mary the Virgin or the Falling Asleep of the Blessed Virgin Mary.

The word 'assumption' derives from the Latin word assūmptiō, meaning 'taking up'.

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