Assumption of Mary: the dogma of 1950

# Assumption of Mary: The Dogma of 1950## IntroductionThe **Assumption of Mary** is the fourth and final Marian dogma defined by the Catholic Church. On November 1, 1950, Pope Pius XII solemnly proclaimed in his Apostolic Constitution *Munificentissimus Deus*: “Mary was assumed body and soul into heaven.”## Foundations of the DefinitionThe Assumption is not explicitly mentioned in the Bible. Its foundation lies in consistency with other revealed truths: the **Immaculate Conception** (Mary was free from original sin, thus exempt from the corruption that follows sin), **Maternity Divine** (Mary is the Mother of God), and her association with Christ’s redemptive work.## Body and SoulThe dogmatic definition explicitly states “body and soul,” distinguishing the Assumption from simple “dormition” (peaceful death) or a purely spiritual elevation. Mary fully participates in Resurrection, the eschatological destiny shared by all humanity redeemed by Christ.## Feast and DevotionThe Assumption is celebrated on August 15, one of the most significant days for Marian devotion worldwide. In Portugal, Spain, Italy, and Latin America, August 15 is a national holiday in many countries, reflecting the deep cultural significance of this belief. For further details, see the article: **Assumption of Mary: Dogma and Spirituality**.## Further StudyExplore **Mariology**, **Marian Dogmas**, **Theological Marian Studies**, and **Post-Graduate Studies in Mariology**.## Church Magisterium> We declare, define, and proclaim that the dogma revealed by God is that the immaculate Mother of God, Mary, having completed her earthly life, was assumed body and soul into heaven. > > — Pius XII, *Munificentissimus Deus*, n. 44 (November 1, 1950)📚 **Literal Translation:** We declare, define, and proclaim as divinely revealed dogma that the Immaculate Mother of God, Virgin Mary, having completed her earthly life, was assumed body and soul into heavenly glory.