Assumption of the BVM
Opening Comment
On this late summer feastday, we worship God who brought the Virgin Mary into glory. She entered heaven because of the victory over death won by Jesus: we hope to share this destiny. Penitential Rite: To prepare ourselves to celebrate Our Lady’s Assumption, let us call to mind our sins: (pause) Lord Jesus, you are mighty God and Prince of Peace … you are Son of God and Son of Mary …. you are Word made flesh and splendour of the Father: Lord, have mercy
Introduction to the Scripture Readings (Vigil Mass)
1 Chronicles 15:3-4, 15-16; 16:1-2— Describes David honouring the ark of God, the tangible sign of God’s covenant with the faithful people. Mary, a child of the House of David, gave the world the sign of the New Covenant in her son Jesus..
1 Corinthians 15:54-57 — The sting of death is banished by Jesus’s victory: Mary is the living proof of this.
Luke 11:27-28 — Mary is exalted because she heard God’s word and kept it.
Introduction to the Scripture Readings (Mass during the Day)
Apocalypse 11:19 and 12:1-6, 10 — The book of Revelations uses symbolic language to convey powerful truths. In this section we learn that Christ was born into a dangerous world as Mary’s child, to win victory over evil.
1 Corinthians 15:20-26 — Christ’s resurrection will be shared by all who are his: we believe Mary shares in it already.
Luke 1:39-56 — Mary is the model Christian, visiting her pregnant cousin and singing God’s praises..
BIDDING PRAYERS
Introduction (by the Presider) Sisters and brothers, let us bring present our needs to the King of Kings.
- For all who celebrate Mary’s Assumption today, that they may never doubt that life continues even after the body dies (pause for silent prayer). Lord, hear us.
- For musicians and all who sing God’s praises in the presence of the Lord, that they may be gathered in to the liturgy of heaven (pause for silent prayer). Lord, hear us.
- For our friends who are sick, at home, in hospital or in nursing homes, that they and their carers may have every grace and blessing (pause for silent prayer). Lord, hear us.
- For women preparing for the birth of their child, that, like Elizabeth, they have the help and support they need (pause for silent prayer). Lord, hear us.
- For our friends whose life in this world is over (especially N & N), that they may join Mary and the saints in the glory of heaven (pause for silent prayer). Lord, hear us.
Conclusion (by the Presider) Almighty God, you come to the help of your servants in their need, hear the prayers we make in faith, through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Liturgical Suggestions: Penitential Act II (page 1385). Preface given with Mass texts, page 833. Eucharistic Prayer 2. Solemn Blessing 15 (The Blessed Virgin Mary, page 556). Songs : ‘A Mhuire Mháthair’; ‘When Creation Was Begun’; ‘Hail Queen of Heaven’; any version of the Magnificat.