Many, particularly new converts to Catholicism, may wonder about the role of Mary in our faith and how she guides us to Jesus. Is praying to Mary a distraction, or does she play a vital part in deepening our relationship with Christ? The answer, while rooted in theological understanding, is best understood through personal experience within the Church.
Mary as the Mother of the Church
Understanding Mary’s role begins with recognizing the Church as a family, with the saints, especially the Blessed Virgin Mary, as crucial members. Mary and all the saints reside in heaven, experiencing perfect communion with Jesus, and desire the same for us. They offer their examples and intercessions to guide us on our path to salvation. As a global family, Catholics pray for one another, with the Virgin Mary, the Mother of the Church and of each of us, praying for us as well.
Mary, as the Mother of the Church, intercedes for us, guiding us toward a closer relationship with Jesus.
A Pilgrimage of Understanding
Personal experiences can profoundly shape our understanding of Mary’s role. One example is a pilgrimage to Marian shrines in Portugal, Spain, and France. This journey transformed the pilgrim’s view of Mary, revealing her role in fostering a deeper relationship with her son, Jesus. Throughout the pilgrimage, experiencing Mary at the head of an immense family, like a matriarch, guided them closer to Jesus.
Mary’s Guidance: Drawing Us Closer to Jesus
Seeing Mary as our mother, who guides us to her son, is crucial. In the Gospel of John, at the crucifixion, Jesus said to his mother, “Woman, behold, your son,” and to the disciple, “Behold, your mother” (John 19:26-27). At that moment, Jesus established Mary as the mother of the Church, making her the spiritual mother of each of us.
At the foot of the cross, Jesus entrusted Mary to the disciple, symbolizing her role as the mother of the Church and a spiritual mother to all.
Pope Francis encourages us to “Speak with the Virgin Mary – she is a mother and will give you the grace and inspire you to do God’s will.” Mary, as the Queen of our Catholic family, uses her prayers and example to guide us closer to her son, not away from him.
Experiencing Mary Through Devotion
Consider participating in Marian devotions, such as visiting a local Marian shrine, praying the Rosary regularly, or exploring other Marian traditions. Experiencing Mary personally is the best approach to understand her part in our relationship with Jesus and how she enables us to draw closer to him.
Praying the Rosary is a powerful Marian devotion that helps us meditate on the life of Christ through the eyes of Mary.
Conclusion: Mary, Our Guide to Christ
Mary’s role isn’t to distract us from Jesus but to guide us closer to him. Through her example, intercession, and motherly love, she helps us deepen our relationship with her son and grow in our faith. By embracing Marian devotions and seeking her guidance, we can better understand how Mary leads us to Christ.
