Mary, Mother of the Church

Mary’s role as mother of Jesus and mother of the Church is, perhaps, how Mary is most widely honored.

John’s Gospel tells us much about Mary’s role as mother. While breathing his last, Jesus "gives" Mary to his disciple John, and, in return, provides for his mother by proclaiming John to be her son. In that moment, Jesus gave his mother to the Church, to pray for us, to be the perfect role model of discipleship, and to love us as only a mother can.

Pope Paul VI proclaimed Mary as Mother of the Church during the Second Vatican Council: "Henceforth, the whole Christian people should, by this most sweet manner, give still greater honor to the Mother of God and address prayers to her." Catholics honor Mary with special devotion as the woman who gave birth to Jesus, as the Mother of God, and as mother of the church community.


Family Activity

	Consider creating a family poem about Mary and an event in her life.

	•		Provide paper and pencils or markers.
	•		Select an event such as, Mary visiting Elizabeth; the Holy Family at the Nativity; Mary standing at Jesus’ cross; Mary at the tomb on Easter morning; and Mary with the disciples at Pentecost.
	•		Have someone write down suggested phrases. Contribute words, phrases, and sentences to create the poem.
	•		Post the completed poem where everyone can see it.

See the Liturgical Calendar on this site for additional information.
See also Catechist—Lent or Teacher—Lent for Liturgy.