17/08/2025
Story Time....
The Heavenly Birthday Party:
Why Catholics Celebrate the Assumption of Mary
Once upon a time, in a humble village, there lived an old grandmother named Lucia who loved telling stories about the saints. One summer evening, her grandchildren gathered around her and asked, "Grandma, why do we celebrate the Assumption of Mary? Did she really go to heaven without dying?"
With a twinkle in her eye, Lucia began her tale.
The Secret God Kept for Mary
Long after Jesus had ascended into heaven, the Blessed Virgin Mary lived a quiet life in Ephesus, cared for by the Apostle John. She spent her days praying, comforting the early Christians, and remembering her Son’s promise: In my Father’s house, there are many rooms… I am going to prepare a place for you.(John 14:2)
One day, an angel appeared to Mary with joyful news: The time has come for you to be reunited with your Son. Mary, filled with peace, gathered the apostle miraculously transported from their missions around the world to say goodbye.
As she closed her eyes for the last time, something extraordinary happened. Instead of her body remaining in the tomb, God lifted her body and soul straight into heaven! The apostles opened her tomb and found only fragrant flowers where she had lain.
Why Does It Matter?
Lucia paused, watching the children’s wide eyes. "You see," she said, "Mary was the first to receive what God promises all of us: a glorified body in heaven. Just as Jesus rose, Mary the Ark of the New Covenant was too holy to decay. Her Assumption is a preview of our own hope!"
One grandchild, little Mateo, gasped. "So heaven is like… the biggest family reunion ever?"
Lucia laughed. "Exactly! And Mary, our loving Mother, is already there, cheering us on!"
Celebrating the Assumption
Every year on August 15th, Catholics worldwide throw a spiritual "birthday party" for Mary’s entrance into heaven. We process with flowers, sing hymns, and remember: Death doesn’t get the last word God’s love does!
So next time you see a beautiful sunset or smell fresh roses, think of Mary’s Assumption and remember: Heaven is waiting for you too.
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." — Pope Pius XII (1950)
