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Munificentissimus Deus
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Munificentissimus Deus

apostolic constitution
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Munificentissimus Deus is the title of an apostolic constitution issued by Pope Pius XII on November 1, 1950. This document formally declared the dogma of the Assumption of Mary into heaven, body and soul, for Roman Catholics. The constitution solidified a belief that had developed over centuries, drawing on various theological interpretations and Marian devotions. While the New Testament does not explicitly mention the Assumption, its imagery is related to Jesus' Ascension. The doctrine signifies Mary's complete redemption and anticipates the future state promised to humanity. The feast of the Assumption, celebrated on August 15, replaced earlier commemorations of Mary's dormition (falling asleep) in the West, emphasizing the glorification of her body and soul. This declaration is considered a revealed doctrine in Roman Catholicism but not in Eastern Orthodoxy.12

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3 Britannica Sources
  1. Assumption
  2. Immaculate Conception
  3. Why Do Catholics Pray to Mary?

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