No evening Masses will be held throughout the Archdiocese of Accra from August 12-15 as part of guidelines put in place by Archbishop John Bonaventure Kwofie as the Archdiocese commences its first-ever Feast of the Assumption celebrations today, Monday, August 12, 2024.
The celebration is themed “We Wish to See Jesus, the Son of Mary” (John 12:21).
The Archdiocese encourages all faithful to partake in the festivities, which include a series of significant events designed to deepen their faith and devotion.
Leading up to the main celebration, a novena ran from August 6 to 11, featuring prayerful reflections and preparations at various parishes.
Additionally, deanery-level penitential processions took place on August 10, and a day of Parish adoration followed on August 11.
Starting this evening, special Masses will be held at selected grottos throughout the Archdiocese, providing ample opportunities for participation and devotion. The featured grottos include:
- Christ the King Catholic Church, Cantonment
- St. Margaret Mary Catholic Church, Dansoman
- St. Mary Catholic Church, Koluedor
- St. Joseph the Worker Catholic Church, Tema Comm 8
- Our Lady of Assumption Catholic Church, New Achimota
- St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, Adenta
The Feast of the Assumption celebrates the belief that the Virgin Mary, the mother of Jesus, was taken up body and soul into heavenly glory at the end of her earthly life. This feast is one of the major Marian feasts in the Catholic Church and has its roots in the early Christian tradition.
The earliest references to the Assumption can be traced back to the 4th century. The idea that Mary was assumed into heaven was widespread in the Eastern Christian traditions by the 5th century. The feast was celebrated under various names, such as the “Dormition” (falling asleep) in the East, reflecting the belief that Mary died and was then assumed into heaven.
The Feast of the Assumption was officially established by Pope Leo IV in the 9th century. However, it was Pope Pius XII who, in 1950, solemnly defined the doctrine of the Assumption as a dogma of the Catholic faith. This was done through the apostolic constitution Munificentissimus Deus, which declared that Mary was “assumed body and soul into heavenly glory.”
The Feast of the Assumption is celebrated on August 15 each year. It is a Holy Day of Obligation in many countries, meaning that Catholics are required to attend Mass on this day.
Significance
The Assumption of Mary is a way for Catholics to honor the Blessed Virgin as the mother of Jesus and a model of holiness. It underscores her unique role in salvation history and her special relationship with God. The Assumption is seen as a confirmation of the dignity of Mary and her place in heaven, reflecting her purity and the divine favor bestowed upon her.
The belief in the Assumption highlights the Catholic teaching on the sanctity of the human body and its ultimate destiny. By being assumed into heaven, Mary’s body is given a foretaste of the resurrection promised to all the faithful. It serves as a sign of hope and encouragement for Catholics, affirming the belief in the resurrection of the body and eternal life.
The Feast of the Assumption invites Catholics to reflect on their own journey towards holiness and their ultimate destiny. It encourages the faithful to emulate Mary’s virtues, such as humility, faithfulness, and devotion. The feast is also a time for Catholics to renew their commitment to living a life in accordance with God’s will.
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