What Catholics Believe About Mary

The Catholic belief that Mary, the mother of Jesus, was taken into heaven is known as the Assumption. This belief has been a core part of Catholic faith for centuries, though it wasn't officially declared a required belief until 1950.

Here's a quick summary of the key points:

• Not in the Bible, but an old belief: The Bible doesn't mention Mary being taken to heaven, but this idea appeared in early Christian writings and became widely accepted over time.

• Like mother, like son: Catholics believed that since Jesus rose to heaven, it was natural for his mother to also be taken there, either before or after her death.

• Role of women: For many Catholic women, Mary was a relatable figure who experienced childbirth, motherhood, and grief. Praying to her provided a sense of comfort and a connection to an empathetic, feminine figure within a predominantly male-led church.

• Hope for everyone: Ultimately, the feast of the Assumption is a celebration of hope. It's meant to show Catholics that after life's struggles, they can also find happiness and be with God, just as Mary is believed to be.

Religious Education and Sacramental Team