One of the oldest traditions associated with the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary on Aug. 15 is the blessing of fruits and herbs. The custom coincided with harvest time and arose from Germanic countries as an opportunity to give thanks to God for the bountiful harvest while also celebrating Mary’s Assumption, body and soul, into heaven. Some churches still hold these blessings on this feast, instituted by the Venerable Pope Pius XII. Another great way to celebrate is to eat fruits and herbs like the ones in this heirloom tomato salad with basil, capers and feta cheese from www.flavourandsavour.com.
The faithful also have Pope Pius XII to thank for the institution of the Feast of the Queenship of Mary on Aug. 22. He believed everyone should go to Mary, the queen of our hearts, and beg for her assistance.Her motherly help is very effective for starting a new chapter in your life. Honor the Queenship of Mary by attending Mass or checking out TAN Books’ stunning “Queen of Heaven” series by Rick Rotundi and Brian Kennelly (both parishioners in our diocese), which includes a book, group study edition and videos for growing closer to Mary.