We are happy to celebrate thee Feast of Assumption of Our Lady as well as our Independence Day. While the first one is symbolic of political liberation, the second one is complete liberation from anything that binds us. Since 1947 onwards Indian Church became doubly happy as Aug 15 became the Independence Day and in its liturgy, prayers and hymns for the day a special thanksgiving prayer for the Independence of India was also included.
The tradition of Assumption Day dates back to the fifth and sixth century. Pope Pius XII in Apostolic Constitution of 1950 set forth the Dogma on Virgin Mary “that the Immaculate Mother of God, the ever Virgin Mary, having completed the course of her earthly life, was assumed body and soul into heavenly glory."
Virgin Mary enjoys a special status in the history of Salvation. She was chosen to be the mother of God and conceived Jesus without sin not by natural means but power of the Holy Spirit. Known as ‘Mediatrix” or mediator between God and Man she plays a special role of interceding with Jesus on behalf of human beings.
As Christians we are called to analyze culture, aided by the Spirit, heal, elevate and purify those elements within it which run contrary to the Gospel. But regardless of the strength, duration and outcome of the storm in which we are immersed, as Christians, as men and women informed by the light of faith, we will not lose hope. As St. Teresa of Avila said, God alone suffices. Our hope does not rest on the passing form of this world (1 Cor. 7:31), but on the promises of Christ and the glorious future that awaits us, for "God is faithful, by whom you were called into the fellowship of his Son, Jesus Christ our Lord" (1 Cor. 1:9).
As people of this country in today’s Indian situation we shall keenly observe the moves of Political, religious and social leaders and will support their plans if they are in tune with the Constitution of the country, which preserve the integrity of the nation, which promote communal peace, which take the country to a higher level in the field of education, health – care, economic growth and social peace.
Let us pray for our country India through the intercession of Mary, Queen and Mother of us all! Wish you all a happy Independence Day and feast of our Assumption of Mother Mary!