| Reflection by Canon Michael Dolman, Rector of St Mary’s College, Oscott The Assumption: Hope for Humanity Visitors to Oscott College are often captivated by the beauty of the Chapel, designed by Augustus Pugin. Each day the seminary community gathers here in the splendid light of Mary Queen of Heaven, beautifully depicted in stained glass above the reredos. The Feast of the Assumption invites us to contemplate not only the glory of the Blessed Virgin Mary, but also the destiny that God desires for all humanity. In Mary, assumed body and soul into heaven, we see the fulfilment of God’s promise that human life is created for communion with Him. Her Assumption is a powerful proclamation that the fulfilment of our human dignity finds its completion in Christ. In Pope Leo XIV’s first encyclical, Magnifica Humanitas, he reflects upon the challenges of our technological age, and the Holy Father reminds us that every person possesses an inviolable dignity because each is created in the image and likeness of God. While technology offers remarkable opportunities for us, it must never diminish what is uniquely human: our capacity to form authentic relationships, to love, and to respond freely to God’s grace. The true greatness of humanity, the Pope writes, is not found in surpassing our human nature through technology, but in allowing ourselves to be transformed by divine love. Mary embodies this truth perfectly. Her greatness lay not in power or achievement, but in her humble “yes” to God. Through her faith, she became the dwelling place of Jesus, and through her Assumption she now shares fully in His resurrection. She reminds us that holiness, not efficiency, productivity, or worldly success, is the measure of a life well lived. As we celebrate this feast, may we renew our commitment to honour the dignity of every person—the unborn, the disabled, the poor, the prisoner, the refugee, and the dying. In a world that is often captivated by the human advancement afforded by technological innovation, Mary points us instead towards the beauty of compassion, fidelity and hope that we discover in our relationship with the living God. Her Assumption assures us that God has not abandoned His creation but calls each of us, even now, to share in the joy of His eternal life. With Mary, we can confidently sing the Magnificat, trusting that the Lord continues to “lift up the lowly” and reveal the magnificent destiny prepared for all who walk faithfully with Him. |
