From the Desk of Fr. Schaller - August 15, 2021

The Solemnity of the Assumption of Mary into Heaven falls on a Sunday this year. This solemnity is always observed on August 15 and is a Holy Day of Obligation. Celebrating it on a Sunday allows for more Catholics to become familiar with the mystery which we celebrate. Mary, the Mother of the Redeemer, is rightfully honored by the Church because she was first honored by God. She was preserved from the stain of original sin from the very beginning of her life (which we commemorate on the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception on December 8). By the power of the Holy Spirit she conceived the Savior of the world within her womb. She was the first and most perfect disciple of the Lord. She stood at the foot of the Cross at His crucifixion. Today’s feast acknowledges and celebrates the fitting end of her life on this earth: namely, that at the end of her life on earth she was assumed body and soul into heaven by the power of God. The Orthodox and other eastern Christians refer to this feast as the Dormition of Mary, that is, her “falling asleep”. The belief of the Catholic Church is that Mary never suffered the corruption of her body, but that she was taken to heaven while still alive (or perhaps, at the very moment of death). This feast of Mary, like all the Marian Feasts, is another way of recognizing the saving work which God has brought about through His (and Mary’s) Son Jesus Christ. Mary, as the best disciple - as the one who cooperated most perfectly with God’s Grace - fittingly should be the first to enjoy everlasting life in heaven.

I’m very much looking forward to our second year of Family Faith Formation. Last year – in the midst of the covid shut-down – we transitioned from the CCD model of religious catechesis to the current family model. This year the FFF model extends from Kindergarten through Confirmation age (10th Grade). Registration for the new year is this Wednesday, August 18 at 6pm in the Church Hall (basement). We will be providing dinner for all. See you Wednesday!

May God bless you!
Fr. Schaller 

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