Earlier this month the Vatican Dicastery of the Doctrine of the Faith issued a document about the use of certain titles to refer to Mary. It has been a concern for many for some time that certain titles might confuse some about the role of Mary vs that of Jesus.
As we all know Mary always leads us to her Son but, like many other things, it’s possible to go too far with something good. I think that’s what has happened here.
Specifically Rome is concerned about referring to Mary as Co-redemptrix and as Mediatrix of all graces.
The document itself is here. It runs about 20 pages plus another 10 for end notes: https://press.vatican.va/content/salastampa/it/bollettino/pubblico/2025/11/04/0829/01462.html#inglese
Here is an article from Vatican News that summarizes the document: https://www.vaticannews.va/en/vatican-city/news/2025-11/doctrinal-note-mother-of-the-faithful-not-co-redemptrix.html
As we’re approaching two very important Marian feast days, Immaculate Conception, and Mary, Mother of God, it’s a good time for us to think about how we view Mary and to make sure we’re not confusing anyone, ourselves or others, with our language about her.
Today’s readings tell us, even if we’re not paying attention to the calendar, that we’re approaching the end of the liturgical year and the beginning of Advent. In Advent, especially near the beginning, we tend to focus on the end times and Jesus’ ultimate return. As we say in the Creed He will “come again in glory to judge the living and the dead…”
It’s a good time for us to take stock in our readiness for that return. None of us likes to think out the end, and sometimes we avoid it through the busyness of our lives. This time of year is the Church’s way of nudging us to give it some thought.
So, as we listen to these readings and the ones to come over the next few weeks let’s remember all things will end and we always need to be alert and prepared.
That’s it for now. Thanks for reading.
I hope you have a great week.
Peace, Bob
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