The Assumption of Mary – the belief that Mary was taken body and soul into heaven – has been celebrated since the early centuries of Christianity.
AmericanCatholic.org explains: “We find homilies on the Assumption going back to the sixth century. In following centuries the Eastern Churches held steadily to the doctrine, but some authors in the West were hesitant. However, by the 13th century there was universal agreement. The feast was celebrated under various names (Commemoration, Dormition, Passing, Assumption) from at least the fifth or sixth century. Today it is celebrated as a solemnity.” (Read more here.)
As the Patronal Feast Day of our Basilica, the Solemnity of the Assumption has special significance in the life of our parish.
ROSARY PROCESSION
The Annual Eucharistic Rosary Procession will take place at 8:30 PM in St. Mary Cemetery.
The Holy Eucharist will be carried in a candlelit procession and the Rosary will be prayed in several languages.
Benediction will be given following the Rosary.
PLENARY INDULGENCE: One of the privileges of a Basilica is the granting of a plenary indulgence on seven feast days throughout the year. Those who visit the Basilica on pilgrimage this day can receive a plenary indulgence under the usual conditions.