Assumption

Assumption of Mary History

The Assumption of Mary, also known as the Feast of the Assumption, is a Catholic holiday that commemorates the assumption of the Virgin Mary into heaven. In New Zealand, the Assumption of Mary is celebrated by the Catholic Church, which is a significant religious denomination in the country. The Catholic Church in New Zealand was established by missionaries who arrived in the 19th century. Over time, the Church has grown to become an influential force in New Zealand's society and culture.

The celebration of the Assumption of Mary in New Zealand involves a variety of religious ceremonies and traditions. Many Catholics attend mass on this day and participate in prayers and devotions to the Virgin Mary. Some churches also hold processions and other public events to mark the occasion. The Assumption of Mary is an important festival for Catholic communities around the world, and it holds a special significance in New Zealand due to the significant number of Catholics in the country. While the holiday's roots are based in religious beliefs, it is also celebrated as a cultural and social event that brings people together in celebration and worship. The Assumption of Mary is celebrated on August 15th every year.

Assumption (of Mary) facts

• The belief in the Assumption underscores the idea of Mary's special place in the plan of salvation. Because she was the mother of Jesus, it is believed that she was free from original sin and did not undergo bodily decay after death.
• In the Roman Catholic Church, the Assumption is considered a dogma, an official and binding doctrine. This dogma was declared by Pope Pius XII in 1950.
• The Burial of the Virgin, a 12th century apocryphal account by St. John the Theologian, is one of the first known written accounts narrating the death of Mary and her resurrection and assumption, though it's not recognized as canonical by the Church.
• As of the 2018 Census, around 12.6% of the New Zealand population identifies as Roman Catholic, making it the largest Christian denomination in the country.
• In New Zealand, the Assumption of Mary is not a nationally recognized public holiday. This is primarily due to New Zealand's secular status and the fact that the majority of the population does not practice the Christian faith.

In the News and Trending in NZ for Assumption

Top things to do in NZ for Assumption of Mary

• Attend an Orthodox Church during the Feast of the Assumption to see the blessing of flowers.
• Historically, both flowers and herbs are brought to church as offerings or to be blessed during the Feast of the Assumption. Start an herb garden or plant some bulbs to bloom in spring in honor of Mary.
• Consider visiting St. Patrick's Cathedral in Auckland, the Cathedral of the Blessed Sacrament in Christchurch, or the Old St. Mary's Convent in Halswell.
• If you're Catholic or interested in participating in a religious service on Assumption of Mary day, you can attend Mass at one of the Catholic churches in your area.