Assumption of Mary
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On August 15, Catholics in France celebrate the Assumption of Mary (L'Assomption de Marie), an event that marks the assumption of the Virgin Mary into heaven. L'Assomption de Marie is a national holiday in France—and, as such, businesses and public services close across the country as believers observe the holiday and others enjoy time off from work.
Many towns and cities host Assumption of Mary processions, with pilgrims carrying a statue of the Virgin Mary through the streets. In Paris, a procession takes place along the Seine, with a silver statue of the Virgin Mary—rescued from the Notre Dame Cathedral after a devastating fire—carried by priests and pilgrims.
Some also travel to Lourdes, a village in southwest France along the border with Spain, to visit the Grotto Massbielle—the site where, in 1858, a girl reported seeing the Virgin Mary. Visitors touch the stone and drink from the spring water at the Grotto, which many believe to be restorative. And in the city of Quimper, bagpipes sound and bonfires are lit in dedication of the Virgin Mary—an event they also call the “Feast of the Soul."
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In honor of the Assumption of Mary, our offices will be closed for the holiday. Please turn on your away message before leaving the office.
