The dogma of the Assumption of Mary and All Saints' Day

On November 1, 1950, Pope Pius XII issued the Apostolic Constitution "Munificentissimus Deus"[1] proclaiming the dogma of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary. This happened on All Saints' Day (November 1), which gave great significance to the destiny of all the elect.

The year was 1950, shortly after the end of World War II, with the horrible track record of Auschwitz and the many other Nazi camps where the human body had been so severely demeaned and desacralized.

“The dogma of the Assumption of Mary proclaims the supernatural destiny and dignity of the human body, called by the Lord to become an instrument of holiness and to participate in his glory."[2]

[1] H. Denzinger - A. Schönmetzger, Enchiridion Symbolorum, § 3900-3904

[2] Cf. John Paul II, Catechesis (audience) of July 9, 1997

Excerpts from: Françoise Breynaert, A l'écoute de Marie, volume II (Le Ver Luisant, Brive, 2007 published by  Mediaspaul)