A note from Vatican clarifies her marital titles.
Mary, the mother of Jesus, is a central figure for millions of Christians around the world. She embodies gentleness maternal, simple and humble faith, refuge in times of trial. Believers have always invoked her, seeking her protection, her intercession, her love. Yet, in the complexity of Marian titles— co-redemptrix, mediator, Mother of Believers —, some misunderstandings have arisen.
To answer these questions, the Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith published a doctrinal note on November 4, 2025, entitled Mater Populi fidelis — «The Mother of the faithful people». This text aims to clarify the official position of the Church on the titles attributed to Mary, maintaining a balance between popular piety and theological rigor.
Marie and her titles: shedding light on controversial expressions
The challenge of marital titles
For centuries, Mary has been known by many names and titles, often rich in meaning. Yet some of them, like co-redemptrix Or mediator of all graces, have sparked debates among theologians and believers.
The note of Vatican It is important to remember that grace alone comes from God, and that Jesus Christ is the sole mediator and redeemer of the world. Therefore, it is essential to respect the hierarchy of roles in the mystery of salvation, while also recognizing Mary's unique contribution.
«One God, one mediator between God and men, the man Jesus Christ.»1 Timothy 2:5)
The title of Co-Redemptrix: Why the Vatican advises against it
The term co-redemptrix This wrongly suggests an equality with Christ in the work of redemption. However, the Church teaches that Jesus is the only Savior. Mary certainly cooperated in a unique way, notably through her Yes to the Annunciation and her presence at the foot of the Cross, but she does not save herself.
The note states: «"The use of this title is inappropriate and can generate confusion and imbalance in the faith."»
«My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.»2 Corinthians 12:9)
Cardinal Víctor Manuel Fernández also points out that some popes, like John Paul II, have sometimes used this term without emphasizing its limitations, but several authorities, notably Benedict XVI and the pope François, are clearly opposed to its use.
Mediator: a mediation of love, not of power
The title of mediator It evokes Mary's ability to intercede on behalf of humanity. But the note reminds us that no mediation equals that of Christ, the only mediator between God and humankind. Mary neither adds to nor completes the saving work of the Son.
«I can do nothing on my own; I judge according to what I hear…»John 5:30)
Mary's mediation is a maternal aid, a tender intercession, never an autonomous source of grace. The expression mediator of all graces Therefore, particular care is required to avoid misunderstandings.
How to invoke Mary according to the Catholic faith?
A prayer embodied in the filial relationship
To invoke Mary is to address a tender mother who loves us, but always with our gaze fixed on God. She is not a shortcut, but a guide who leads to Christ.
Throughout the centuries, prayers such as the Greetings Married, THE Hail, Queen, THE rosary nourished the faith of believers.
«"This is your mother."John 19:27)
This word of Christ to John asks us to recognize Mary as our spiritual mother, a close and attentive presence.
Spiritual motherhood and closeness
The note places "spiritual motherhood" at the heart of the understanding of Mary. She is "the mother of the faithful people," a loving presence, a model of faith who accompanies Christians in their lives.
The maternity ward of Mary does not weaken devotion To Christ, on the contrary, it stimulates and roots it.
Praying with Mary, not in her place
Mary invites us to imitate her listening and her love. She kept the Word of God in her heart and invites us to do the same.
The note also emphasizes the importance of not diverting prayer towards her at the expense of Christ, but of living it in communion with Him, in the truth of salvation.
Mary and the other confessions: towards a better understanding
A delicate ecumenical issue
Some Christian denominations protest against the overly central role given to Mary, seeing her as competing with the mediation of Christ. Mater Populi fidelis reminds us of the need to avoid formulations that could offend other Christians.
She reassures by affirming that the Catholic faith remains attached to the primacy of Christ in redemption.
A unifying figure
Yet, Mary remains a figure of unity, bringing together diverse Christian currents, particularly within the Orthodox and Catholic Churches. Her life and her "yes" inspire grandeur and humility.
«Blessed are those who hear the word of God and keep it.»Luke 11,28)
Marie is the perfect example of listening and loyalty to God, a bridge between Christians.
Invoking Mary as a path to God
The new note from Vatican It reminds us that Mary is a loving mother, a maternal mediator, a model of faith, but always with respect for Christ's sole role as mediator. To invoke Mary is to accept her invitation to turn to Jesus, to grow in faith and hope.
«My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior.»Luke 1,46-47)
May the invocation to Mary always be a call to welcome God more fully into our lives.
