RBWords

     In 1988, I traveled with a group of pilgrims to the Holy Land.  One of the sites we visited was Nazareth.  A huge basilica has been built over what tradition considers the site of the home of the Holy Family.  In an exterior courtyard and around the interior walls of the basilica are images of Mary as patroness contributed by countries around the world.  The variety is quite fascinating.  The image from the United States is that of the Woman Clothed with the Sun, based on the scripture from the Book of Revelation, quoted above, in the first scripture for today's feast.  Some traditions have applied this image to Mary at the time of her death (although its symbolism is related more to the Old Testament).  Our faith teaches us that she was preserved from the effects of death that we will experience.  We do hope to share eventually what she experienced immediately.

     St. Paul's reflections on the resurrection body in 1 Corinthians 15 tell us that what happens at death and at the final resurrection remains a mystery except that we are all changed.  The final judgment will bring all creation together, but Mary will not be subject to it.  She is at the head of the communion of saints and intercedes for us.  The celebration of the feast of the Assumption is a reminder of her importance in our faith and in our efforts to live it day by day.  AMEN

[Note to the Beloved Congregation.  Beginning tomorrow, August 15 through Friday, August 24, I will be at the Queen of Peace cloistered monastery of Dominican nuns at Squamish, British Columbia, Canada (about 2 hours north of Vancouver), to give some talks.  I will do the best I can to get these reflections done, but I cannot predict at what time of day I'll be doing it.  There is wi-fi there but cell phone reception is poor.  So, don't be alarmed if there is interruption.  I'll make up for any missing ones when I get back.  Pray for a safe journey