DÉDOUGOU, MOUHOUN — The Sainte Trinité parish in Dédougou vibrantly celebrated the Feast of the Assumption on Thursday, August 15, 2024, with special prayers for peace, security, and family well-being across Burkina Faso.
According to Burkina Information Agency, the parish priest, the celebration began with a procession featuring the statue of the Virgin Mary, accompanied by dance steps and large attendance by the parishioners. The Feast of the Assumption, marking the Virgin Mary’s ascent into heaven, is an annual event celebrated on August 15, representing a significant solemnity in honor of Mary. This year’s observance was especially focused on invoking Mary’s intercession for peace and social cohesion within families and throughout the nation.
Father Ala emphasized that the Feast of the Assumption is not only a celebration of Mary’s entry into heaven but also a time to reflect on her life of humility, faith, and love. He highlighted that the solemnity commemorates Mary’s bodily assumption into heaven, a belief held by the faithful for centuries and declared a dogma of the Church by Pope Pius XII in 1950. Father Ala encouraged the faithful to emulate Mary’s virtues and to approach her with prayers as she represents humanity in the divine plan of salvation.
During the mass, approximately twenty children were baptized, adding a layer of communal joy to the celebrations. The event was also marked by personal milestones, with parish member Mr. René Vimboué expressing gratitude for his 81st birthday, 61 years of baptism, and 58 years of marriage during this special feast day.
The ceremony featured performances by the women’s choir and continued with a procession with the statue of the Virgin Mary, allowing the faithful to express their joy through dance. The day concluded with popular celebrations in the parish courtyard, where the community gathered to enjoy the festive atmosphere.
