The Dormition of the Theotokos

Our obligatory call to re-dedication, the “Dormition Fast”, ends on August 14 and is followed by a feast! The Feast of the Dormition of the Theotokos, the most ancient feast of the Mother of God, directs our gaze towards what we are all called to as Christians: communion with the Lord for all eternity. On August 15, we commemorate the passing of the Virgin Mary from earthly life to eternal life with God. Your parish may bless herbs and flowers on this day.

According to tradition, Mary was taken up to heaven by the angels after her death, without experiencing bodily decay. This event is seen as a source of hope and inspiration, as it demonstrates the possibility of attaining eternal life through faith and devotion.

This day, along with last week’s feast, the Transfiguration of Christ, reveal the truth of the human person, how we were intended from the beginning and how we will be in Heaven forever for those who are saved. Our body and soul were always meant to be intact together and glorious.  It was only because of Original Sin that we experience the separation of body and soul.  Christ came into the world to redeem our bodies which experience sickness, death and separation  from  with our soul.  Now, as we see in the Transfiguration and in the Dormition, for those who are saved, our bodies and souls will be reunited and gloriously transfigured in Heaven forever. 

The Chancery will be closed on August 15 in liturgical observance of the Dormition of the Most Holy Theotokos.