Mary

What Catholics Believe About Mary

Mary is the Mother of Jesus Christ, who is truly God and truly man.

Catholics honor Mary because God honored her and chose her to be the mother of the Savior.

Catholic devotion to Mary is never separated from Jesus. Mary always leads us to her Son.

“Behold the handmaid of the Lord; be it done to me according to thy word.” — Luke 1:38

Why Mary Matters

Mary shows us what faithful discipleship looks like.

She trusted God, obeyed His word, received Christ, and remained faithful even at the foot of the Cross.

In Mary, Christians see humility, faith, purity, courage, and love.

Mary in Scripture

Mary appears at key moments in the life of Jesus and the early Church.

• The Annunciation.
• The Visitation.
• The Nativity.
• The Wedding at Cana.
• The Foot of the Cross.
• Pentecost.

Scripture presents Mary as a woman of faith who listens to God and points others to Christ.

“Whatsoever he shall say to you, do ye.” — John 2:5

Key Teachings About Mary

Mother of God

Mary is called Mother of God because the child she bore is Jesus Christ, one Divine Person who is truly God and truly man.

Immaculate Conception

Mary was preserved from Original Sin by the grace of God in view of the merits of Jesus Christ.

Perpetual Virginity

The Church teaches that Mary remained a virgin before, during, and after the birth of Jesus.

Assumption

At the end of her earthly life, Mary was taken body and soul into heavenly glory.

Common Misunderstandings

Catholics Do Not Worship Mary

Worship belongs to God alone. Catholics honor Mary and ask for her prayers.

Mary Is Not Equal to God

Mary is a creature saved by God’s grace. She is not divine.

Mary Does Not Replace Jesus

Mary’s role is always centered on Christ. She leads us to Him.

Marian Devotion Is Christ-Centered

Authentic devotion to Mary deepens love for Jesus and obedience to His Gospel.

Explore Mary

Key Truths About Mary

• Mary is the Mother of Jesus Christ.
• Mary is the Mother of God because Jesus is God.
• Catholics honor Mary but worship God alone.
• Mary is the model disciple.
• Mary always points us to Jesus.
• Marian doctrine protects truths about Christ.
• Authentic Marian devotion is Christ-centered.

What Does This Mean For Me?

Mary teaches us how to trust God.

Her life shows us how to receive Christ, follow Him faithfully, and remain close to Him in suffering.

When Catholics honor Mary, they are honoring the grace of God at work in His greatest disciple.

Continue Learning

Now that you understand the big picture of Mary, the next step is: Who Is Mary?

Learn why Catholics honor Mary and how her whole life points to Jesus Christ.