Vatican clarifies Mary’s titles in new doctrine on redemption and mediation
The Vatican has released a document titled 'Mater Populi Fidelis', clarifying the role of Mary in the Catholic Church. The document, approved by Pope Leo XIV on October 7, 2023, and presented by Cardinal Víctor Manuel Fernández, head of the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith, on November 4, 2023, addresses the titles 'co-redemptrix' and 'co-mediatrix'.
St. John Paul II had previously referred to Mary as 'Co-redemptrix', but the Church has now clarified its stance. The Vatican's Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith, in a study dating back to 1926, concluded that using the title 'co-redemptrix' can create confusion and imbalance in Christian faith, as it risks eclipsing Jesus Christ's exclusive role in salvation. The document, released on November 4, 2023, states that the title 'co-mediatrix' may be used if it does not cast doubt on Jesus Christ's unique mediation.
Cardinal Fernández, in presenting the document, confirmed that its teaching becomes part of the church's 'ordinary magisterium'. Pope Francis, however, has stated that it's not appropriate to use the title 'co-redemptrix', noting that love often leads people to exaggerate.
The Vatican's 'Mater Populi Fidelis' document clarifies the Church's position on Mary's titles, emphasizing the unique roles of Jesus Christ in redemption and mediation. While 'co-mediatrix' may be used with caution, 'co-redemptrix' is discouraged due to potential confusion it may cause among the faithful.
