From the Friars: The Truth About the Mother of God

On November 4th the Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith published a Doctrinal Note entitled Mater Populi Fidelis (MFP, Mother of the Faithful People). Its main point is to state that it is not appropriate to use the titles Co-Redemptrix and Mediatrix of All Graces for the Blessed Virgin Mary. Most Catholics are likely unfamiliar with the long history of these titles and the theology behind them. The first point to highlight is that they are not condemned but are recognized as legitimate if understood correctly. Ironically, MFP outlines Our Lady’s unique but subordinate role in God’s plan which is the point of the very titles it criticizes.

It was very painful and sad for me, and many others, to read this document. It dangerously minimizes Mary’s role. My theology studies for the priesthood were mainly done with the Franciscan Friars of the Immaculate. This religious order is probably the main promoter of Our Lady as Co-Redemptrix and Mediatrix of All Graces in the Church. They were always careful to explain them correctly, avoiding the abuses and misunderstandings that MFP repeatedly points out as possible dangers.

To say that if something needs to be explained then it should not be used is not a convincing argument. This could be said of many doctrines of our Faith, especially Marian dogmas. Abusus non tollit usum, the abuse does not negate the right use. The definition of Mary as Mother of God at Ephesus in 431AD is a prime example. It always must be explained correctly to avoid the danger of thinking that Our Lady is somehow the source of God Himself, which is obviously impossible.

St. John Paul II, the great Marian Pope, used Co-Redemptrix at least seven times. Pope Benedict XVI, the brilliant theologian, was opposed to the titles but never forbade their use. Even the greatest minds of the Church are limited and do not always see the full picture. For example, Saint Thomas Aquinas and St. Bonaventure were both opposed to the Immaculate Conception.

May the full truth about Our Lady’s unique participation in the Redemptive Sacrifice of her Son, and in the distribution of the graces that He merited, be made clear and proclaimed with joy and boldness, for the greater glory of God and the good of His people.

Fr. Peter