Assumption of Mary: Traditions and their meaning for the community

Assumption of Mary: Traditions and their meaning for the community

On August 15, 2025, the Catholic Church celebrates the important feast of the Assumption of Mary, which is traditionally celebrated in late summer. This festival has a long history and was founded in 1950 by Pope Pius XII. proclaimed as a dogma that says that at the end of her earthly life Mary was taken body and soul into heaven. So reported my-kirchenzeitung.de.

As part of these celebrations, many old traditions and folk beliefs come together, illustrating the festive atmosphere surrounding the Assumption of Mary. The focus is particularly on the herb consecration, during which children, mothers and grandmothers collect fresh herbs such as St. John's wort, yarrow, chamomile and dill and tie them into a herb bush. These bouquets are then blessed in the church and often have their place of honor in the Lord's Corner or in the stable, where they are kept for a whole year. This ritual symbolizes the bridge between heaven and earth as well as the interplay between eternity and transience.

Culture in the slipstream of traditions

In a completely different context, but still extremely interesting, the cinema has also created a significant film about a much-admired female icon - Maria Callas. Directed by Pablo Larraín and starring Angelina Jolie, this work is about the last days of the legendary opera diva. The film “Maria” will be released in cinemas on January 1, 2025 in Italy and on February 6, 2025 in Germany Wikipedia reported.

The story follows Maria Callas in the week before her death in 1977. She reflects on her life, her career and the challenges she experienced. The leading actress, Angelina Jolie, prepared intensively for her role and even trained for seven months for her performance as an opera singer. The film received an eight-minute standing ovation when it premiered at the Venice Film Festival, but it also has some weaknesses, as critics note. The lip-syncing in particular was found to be inadequate, which would be disappointing for a biopic about a singer. According to a review on IMDB Jolie is described as a beauty, but she doesn't do justice to Callas' drama and expression. Comparable to Marion Cotillard in “La Mome,” Jolie falls short of expectations.

A celebration of opposites

Both themes, the solemn Assumption of Mary and the film about Maria Callas, illustrate the deep-rooted connection between culture and faith. While one clings to the great traditions and the connection between heaven and earth, the other addresses the fleeting nature of celebrity and artistic creation. On August 15, 2025, not only spiritual but also cultural trends will meet - a beautiful occasion to reflect and celebrate both aspects of life.

Whether in the church at the consecration of herbs or in the cinema at the story of the life of a great singer - this day has many facets that need to be experienced.