Mary

Mary is the Mother of Jesus — the Son of God made man — and therefore the Mother of God (Theotokos). She is also called "full of grace," the New Eve, Mother of the Church, and Queen of Heaven. Her role in salvation history is unique and surpassed by no other creature (CCC 148, 495, 722).

Her Role in Salvation

By her free "yes" (fiat) at the Annunciation, Mary became the vessel through whom the Son of God entered the world. Her cooperation was freely given — and the Incarnation depended on it. She cooperated in the redemption by offering her Son and uniting her suffering to his beneath the cross (CCC 968).

The Four Marian Dogmas

The Church has formally defined four dogmas about Mary: the Immaculate Conception (preserved from Original Sin from conception), the Perpetual Virginity (virgin before, during, and after the birth of Jesus), the Divine Maternity (truly the Mother of God), and the Assumption (taken body and soul into Heaven at the end of her earthly life) (CCC 490–511, 966).

Veneration, Not Worship

Catholics honor Mary with hyperdulia — a special veneration above all other saints, appropriate to her unique dignity. This is entirely distinct from worship (latria), which belongs to God alone. Catholics pray through and with Mary, asking for her intercession before her Son (CCC 971).

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Mary a co-redeemer? While the Church has used the title "co-redemptrix" in theological tradition, it is not a defined dogma. What is taught is that Mary cooperated uniquely in the redemption through her obedience, faith, and offering — always subordinate to and dependent on Christ, the one Redeemer (CCC 968–969).

Why do Catholics pray to Mary? Catholics ask Mary to intercede as one would ask any holy friend to pray — except that Mary is the Mother of God, uniquely close to her Son. Her intercession is powerful precisely because it is directed entirely toward Christ (CCC 2673–2675).