Catechist Background and Preparation
To prepare for this session, read all the readings.
Revelation 11:19; 12:1-6, 10
1 Corinthians 15:20-26
Luke 1:39-56
Spend a few minutes reflecting on what these readings mean for you today. Is there a particular reading that appeals to you? Is there a word that engages you?
Read the following Word in Liturgy and Catholic Doctrine sections. These give you background on this session. Read over the session outline and make it your own. Check to see what materials you will need.
The Word in Liturgy
The book of Revelation was written to encourage the early Christian community during a time of persecution. The section read today starts with a vision of the Ark of the Covenant in heaven, and then shifts immediately to a woman “clothed with the sun.” For the Christian reader, this was a coded tale of God’s ultimate triumph over the demonic forces at work in the world, especially those persecuting the Christian community.
Scholars are in agreement that the infancy narratives in Luke’s Gospel are profound theological reflections on the identity and mission of Jesus, not mere historical remembrances. Today’s reading casts the spotlight on the great blessings enjoyed by Mary by virtue of the identity of her offspring. Hers is a reflected glory, but a glory nonetheless. Ultimately, what we celebrate today in Mary is a proclamation of our faith in “God who is mighty [and who] has done great things.”
Catholic Doctrine
What is the meaning of this feast? We believe that Mary’s assumption is a unique participation in Christ’s resurrection. This doctrine declares that the resurrection we hope for Mary now enjoys completely. The Mother of God anticipates that which will be our destiny—she has been taken up fully into the life of God which awaits us all. In a sense, this teaching of the Church says that one of us has made it and is therefore a sign for us.
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