Why on August 15 is a holiday in France: origin and meaning of the assumption

Assumption: a millennial religious holiday – Why august 15 holiday france:

August 15 is dedicated to the Assumption of the Virgin Mary. Therefore, a belief that the Mother of Jesus was “assumed” in heaven, that is to say raised body and soul with God. Similarly, This celebration finds its roots in the Christian tradition. Similarly, although it has not become an official dogma of the Catholic Church in 1950, under the pontificate of Pope Pius XII.

In France, the Assumption has been celebrated since the Middle Ages. However. it was not until 1638 that King Louis XIII devoted the Kingdom of France to the Virgin Mary and established on August 15 as a national day. This date symbolized divine protection on the kingdom. Later, in 1802, Napoleon Bonaparte officially made August 15 a holiday throughout France, thus reinforcing its importance in the national tradition.

Do not confuse Assumption. Ascension

It is why august 15 holiday france: important not to confuse the assumption, celebrated on August 15, with the ascent, which is another Christian celebration celebrated in May, forty days after Easter. The ascent commemorates the elevation of Jesus in heaven. while the Assumption concerns the rise of the Virgin Mary to heaven. Although these two festivals are marked by important religious celebrations. are both public holidays in France, they have different meanings and contexts.