The Assumption of Mary is a Christian doctrine that relates to the belief that Mary, the mother of Jesus, was taken up to Heaven, body and soul, at the end of her earthly life. Although the Assumption is not mentioned in the Bible, it is an ancient belief that has been held by the Catholic Church and several Orthodox and Oriental Orthodox churches for centuries. According to tradition, Mary was assumed into Heaven by God's power, without experiencing death, and remains the first and most exalted creature in Heaven after Christ.