Mary in the Spring

Mary "is full of grace, proclaimed to be entirely without sin.... God’s grace fills her with everything good and makes her devoid of all evil.... Moreover, God guarded and protected her from all that might be harmful to her."

– Martin Luther

Luther’s admiration and respect for Mary might be surprising. Yet, many that are not Catholic hold Mary in high esteem. Lutherans, Muslims, and others admire her role as the mother of Jesus. Reflect on the inclusiveness that revolves around Mary. Share this approach to Mary with parishioners. Note how Mary’s role can help bring about common ground with non-Catholics rather than seeing her as a stumbling block toward Catholic relationships with Protestants. It was the latter view that moved Catholics to de-emphasize the importance of Mary after Vatican II. There was a fear that others might think that Catholics worshipped instead of honored Mary. As with all things, a sense of balance is eventually restored. Hopefully that is the path we are following today.