The Assumed Role of Mary in the Communion of Saints ๐๐น
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Mary, the beloved Mother of God, holds a special place in the Communion of Saints. As Catholics, we believe that she was assumed body and soul into Heaven at the end of her earthly life. This glorious event is known as the Assumption of Mary.
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The Assumption of Mary is not explicitly mentioned in the Bible, but we find hints of it in Scripture. In the book of Revelation, we read about a woman clothed with the sun, with the moon under her feet, and a crown of twelve stars on her head. This woman is commonly understood to be Mary, who is exalted in Heaven.
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The Catechism of the Catholic Church teaches us that Mary's Assumption is a sign of hope and a reminder that we too, by the grace of God, can hope to be united with Him in Heaven. It states, "The Assumption is a singular participation in her Son's Resurrection and an anticipation of the resurrection of other Christians" (CCC 966).
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Mary's role in the Communion of Saints goes beyond her assumption. She is considered the Queen of Heaven and Earth, a title bestowed upon her by God. Just as the Queen Mother played a significant role in the Old Testament, so does Mary in the New Testament as the Mother of Jesus, the King of Kings.
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Mary's intercession is powerful and has been witnessed throughout history. At the wedding at Cana, she interceded for the couple and prompted Jesus to perform His first miracle, turning water into wine. This demonstrates her role as a compassionate and caring mother, always advocating for her children.
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The saints themselves recognized Mary's importance in the Communion of Saints. St. Maximilian Kolbe, a Polish Franciscan friar, said, "Never be afraid of loving the Blessed Virgin too much. You can never love her more than Jesus did." Mary is a beacon of love and devotion, guiding us towards her Son.
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The Rosary is a powerful prayer that deepens our relationship with Mary and Jesus. Through the Rosary, we meditate on the significant moments in the life of Christ, accompanied by Mary's loving presence. This devotion brings us closer to the Communion of Saints and strengthens our spiritual journey.
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In the Gospel of Luke, Mary's cousin Elizabeth proclaims, "Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb!" (Luke 1:42). This affirmation acknowledges Mary's unique and blessed role as the Mother of God, highlighting her significance in the Communion of Saints.
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The early Church Fathers also recognized Mary's exceptional role. St. Athanasius, one of the great theologians of the Church, stated, "The Word of God became man and the Son of God became the Son of man, so that man, by entering into communion with the Word and thus receiving divine sonship, might become a son of God." Mary, as the Mother of God, played a vital role in the Incarnation.
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Mary's assumption into Heaven reminds us of the hope we have in Christ's victory over death. She experienced the fullness of God's grace and is now glorified in Heaven. As Catholics, we honor Mary as our spiritual mother and seek her intercession in times of need.
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The saints often turned to Mary in their spiritual journeys. St. Louis de Montfort, a prominent Marian theologian, said, "The more the Holy Spirit finds Mary, His dear and inseparable spouse, in any soul, the more active and mighty He becomes in producing Jesus Christ in that soul." Mary leads us closer to Christ, guiding us on the path to holiness.
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Mary's role in the Communion of Saints extends to the present day. Apparitions such as Our Lady of Fatima and Our Lady of Lourdes have brought immense spiritual graces to countless believers, reminding us of Mary's love and concern for her children.
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The Catholic Church honors Mary with various feast days throughout the liturgical year. The Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception (December 8th) celebrates Mary's conception without original sin, and the Solemnity of the Assumption (August 15th) commemorates her assumption into Heaven.
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Mary's role as the Mother of God and Queen of Heaven reminds us of the importance of cultivating a personal relationship with her. Through prayer, we can seek her guidance and intercession, knowing that she always leads us closer to her Son.
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As Catholics, it is essential to reflect on the role of Mary in the Communion of Saints and the impact she has on our spiritual lives. What are your thoughts on Mary's assumed role? How has devotion to Mary influenced your faith journey? Share your insights and experiences in the comments below. ๐น๐
Hashim (Guest) on October 22, 2015
Mother of Divine Grace, pray for us, that we may receive God's blessings in abundance.
Andrew Mchome (Guest) on October 13, 2015
At Cana, Maryโs faith in Jesusโ power to save was revealed, as she urged Him to perform His first miracle, foreshadowing His work of redemption.
Rose Lowassa (Guest) on October 8, 2015
In Mary's soul, God found a dwelling place pure and holy, where He could take on human flesh for our redemption.
Nancy Akumu (Guest) on September 30, 2015
Walk by faith, not by sight
Maimuna (Guest) on September 19, 2015
In Mary, the Holy Trinityโs love for humanity is revealed, as she carried the fullness of Godโs presence in her womb.
Grace Wairimu (Guest) on September 9, 2015
God's promises are always true
Violet Mumo (Guest) on September 2, 2015
God's promises are always true
David Kawawa (Guest) on August 19, 2015
As the new Eve, Maryโs obedience to God contrasts with the disobedience of the first Eve, bringing life where there was death.
Salima (Guest) on August 18, 2015
Maryโs appearance in places like Lourdes, Fatima, and Guadalupe has brought countless people closer to God.
Lydia Wanyama (Guest) on August 12, 2015
God timing is perfect
Andrew Odhiambo (Guest) on August 10, 2015
St. Bonaventure: โMary seeks souls who abandon themselves entirely to her to conform them to the image of her Son.โ
Peter Mbise (Guest) on August 3, 2015
St. Peter Julian Eymard: โWhen I am in a time of trouble, I run to my mother Mary, and she comes to my aid.โ
Daniel Obura (Guest) on July 28, 2015
The Holy Spirit sanctified Mary from the moment of her conception, preparing her to bear the Son of God.
Hellen Nduta (Guest) on July 22, 2015
The Holy Trinity crowned Mary as Queen of Heaven, recognizing her role in bringing the Savior into the world.
Salima (Guest) on July 2, 2015
St. Faustina: โThe Blessed Mother is always with me, though I do not see her with my bodily eyes.โ
Dorothy Nkya (Guest) on June 28, 2015
His mercy is a constant reminder of His love
Benjamin Kibicho (Guest) on April 18, 2015
In His mercy, God forgives and restores
Mary Mrope (Guest) on April 16, 2015
Even a mustard seed of faith can move mountains
James Kimani (Guest) on April 9, 2015
In our weakness, God's mercy gives us strength
Peter Mugendi (Guest) on April 9, 2015
In her Assumption, Maryโs participation in salvation is complete, as she is taken body and soul into heaven, where she continues to intercede for us.