REFLECTION FOR THE SOLEMNITY OF ASSUMPTION

"The Immaculate Mother of God, the ever-virgin Mary, having completed the course of her earthly life, was assumed body and soul into heaven". These are the words with which, on November 1, 1950, in the Apostolic Constitution *Munificentissimus* *Deus* , Pope Pius XII proclaimed the Assumption of Mary a dogma of the Catholic Church. With that, an ancient belief became Catholic doctrine and the Assumption was declared a truth revealed by God. 

   The first reading (Rev. 11: 19, 12: 1-6, 10), speaks about the woman who gives birth to a Son through Whom salvation and power come into the world. We also hear that God has prepared a place for her. This whole account links Mary as the one who gives birth to the Saviour of the world. 

   In the gospel (Luke 1: 39-56), we are presented with Mary's visit to Elizabeth and Mary's proclamation of her magnificat. "God who is mighty has done great things for me, holy is his name" (Luke 1:49). 

   Dear friends, today's celebration is associated with the ultimate victory: Jesus' victory over death and our victory over death through faith in Jesus Christ. Mary is among the "first fruits" of faith in Jesus (1 Cor. 15: 20-23). The Lord wishes through faith in Him, to transform us from victim to victor, free from sin, bitterness, resentment, unforgiveness, self-hatred and most importantly, to enjoy beatific vision in heaven with Him. 

   I pray as we journey in life today, we will be filled with the Holy Spirit as did Mary and Elizabeth through the power of the Word, and enjoy the freedom it gives. May we be victorious in all we encounter today. May Mary, assumed into heaven intercede for us. Have a glorious Feast of Assumption.