On December 8, we celebrate the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary. This week, on August 15, the Catholic Church celebrates the Assumption of Mary. Mary lived free of sin from the moment of her own conception. At the end of her life, God assumed Mary—body and soul—directly into Heaven where she now lives eternally with her son, Jesus. On this feast day, Catholics are required to participate in the celebration of the Mass. This day is one of six Holy Days of Obligation celebrated in the United States. Find out more about which feast days hold this special importance and how the calendar of Holy Days of Obligation may change depending on the year, the country in which you live, and the diocese in which you worship.
Photo credit: P.RAZZO/CIRIC
