Roman Catholicism: Mary
Like other Christian denominations, the Roman Catholic Church teaches Mary, a virgin, was the mother of Jesus. Unlike many other denominations however, it also teaches that Mary was born without original sin (the Immaculate Conception) as well as other doctrines not usually accepted by other Christian denominations.
Roman Catholic Doctrine on the Virgin Mary | |
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SERMONS, ESSAYS AND OPINIONS | |
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Marian Dogma
Theotokos
Theotokos is a Greek word and means "the one who gives birth to God". This doctrine was formulated by the Council of Ephesus in 431. The title "Mother of God" derives from this doctrine.
Perpetual virginity of Mary
This doctrine asserts that Mary stayed virgin during and after the birth of Jesus Christ. In catholic exegesis the "brothers and sisters" of Jesus which are mentioned in the gospels and the acts are therefore usually seen as cousins.
Immaculate Conception
This doctrine teaches that Mary was conceived without original sin, and was therefore sinless throughout her life.
Assumption of Mary
This teaches that because of her sinlessness, Mary never experienced a physical death – the result of sin. Instead, she was raised bodily into the presence of Christ. It was promulgated a dogma by Pope Pius XII in 1950.
Roman Catholicism: Co-Redemptrix
This doctrine is controversially discussed inside the church. Pope Benedict XVI as Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger stated that he is against an official proclamation of Mary as Coredemptrix.
It is unclear what is meant by this title. Within the limits of traditional Catholic doctrine it could mean that Mary through her positive response to God's grace cooperates in the redemption brought by Christ.
Hyperdulia - Special veneration
This teaching holds that because of her unparalleled role in salvation, Mary is worthy of special veneration and devotion. There are three specific terms of worship and veneration in Catholicism: latria – adoration that is due God alone, dulia – veneration afforded to the saints, and hyperdulia – special veneration given to Mary.
Marian prayers
Rosary
Marian apparitions
The Catholic church maintains that on certain occasions and in certain places Mary appears in visions. Such places include Lourdes, Fatima and Guadelupe. A catholic is not held to believe in such apparitions.
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