Who Is Mary?

Who Is Mary?

Mary is the mother of Jesus Christ, the Son of God.

She is one of the most important figures in Christianity because God chose her to bring the Savior into the world.

Catholics honor Mary because of her unique role in God’s plan of salvation.

Everything the Church teaches about Mary ultimately points to Jesus Christ.

“Blessed art thou among women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb.” — Luke 1:42

Chosen by God

Before the birth of Jesus, the Angel Gabriel appeared to Mary and announced that she had been chosen by God to become the mother of the Messiah.

Mary’s response was one of complete trust and obedience.

She freely accepted God’s will despite not fully understanding everything that would happen.

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

The Mother of Jesus

Mary gave birth to Jesus Christ in Bethlehem.

Because Jesus is truly God and truly man, the Church honors Mary with the title Mother of God.

This title protects the truth about Jesus and affirms that the child Mary bore is the eternal Son of God made man.

Mary’s Faith

Throughout her life, Mary demonstrated extraordinary faith.

She trusted God at the Annunciation, cared for Jesus during His hidden years, followed Him throughout His ministry, and remained faithful at the foot of the Cross.

Mary’s life teaches us what it means to trust God even during uncertainty and suffering.

Mary in the Life of Jesus

Mary appears at important moments throughout the Gospel:

• The Annunciation.
• The Visitation.
• The Nativity.
• The Presentation in the Temple.
• The Wedding at Cana.
• The Crucifixion.
• Pentecost.

In each event, Mary faithfully cooperates with God’s plan.

Mary at the Cross

Mary remained with Jesus during His Passion and stood at the foot of the Cross.

While many fled in fear, Mary remained faithful.

Her presence at Calvary reveals her deep love for Christ and her willingness to unite her sufferings with His.

Mary and the Church

After Christ’s Ascension, Mary remained with the Apostles and was present at Pentecost.

Because she is the mother of Jesus and a model disciple, the Church has always honored her in a special way.

Catholics look to Mary as an example of faith, humility, purity, obedience, and love.

Why Catholics Honor Mary

Catholics honor Mary because God honored her first.

Scripture records that all generations would call her blessed.

Honoring Mary does not take away from Jesus. Instead, it recognizes God’s work in the life of the woman He chose to be the mother of His Son.

“For behold from henceforth all generations shall call me blessed.” — Luke 1:48

Common Misunderstandings

Catholics Do Not Worship Mary

Worship belongs to God alone.

Catholics honor Mary and ask for her prayers, but they do not adore her as God.

Mary Is Not Divine

Mary is a human being who was saved by God’s grace.

She is not a goddess and is not equal to God.

Mary Always Points to Jesus

Authentic devotion to Mary always leads people closer to Christ.

Why Mary Matters

Mary shows us how to respond to God’s grace with faith and obedience.

Her life demonstrates humility, trust, perseverance, and love for God.

By studying Mary’s example, Christians learn how to become more faithful disciples of Jesus.

Key Truths About Mary

• Mary is the mother of Jesus Christ.
• God chose Mary to bring the Savior into the world.
• Mary freely accepted God’s plan.
• Mary is the Mother of God because Jesus is God.
• Mary remained faithful throughout her life.
• Mary was present at the Cross and Pentecost.
• Catholics honor Mary but worship God alone.
• Mary is the model disciple who always points to Jesus.

What Does This Mean For Me?

Mary’s life shows that holiness begins with saying “yes” to God.

Like Mary, every Christian is called to trust God’s plan, follow Christ faithfully, and remain steadfast in both joy and suffering.

By learning from Mary, we learn how to become better disciples of Jesus Christ.

Explore Mary

Continue Learning

Now that you know who Mary is, the next step is: Mother of God

Learn why the Church calls Mary the Mother of God and how this title protects the truth about Jesus Christ.