Mediatrix of All Graces

Dear Catholic Exchange:

It is okay to become a devotee and say a prayer and intentions for Our Lady of Mediatrix of All Graces. In my own understanding, the Pope has not allowed this as another name for Mary. Is it correct??

In Christ,
Bruce


Dear Bruce,

Peace in Christ!

Although the teaching on Mary's role as Mediatrix is not dogmatically defined, it is nevertheless part of the Church's constant teaching. The following popes spoke of Mary as Mediatrix of all graces: Pope Pius VII, Pope Pius IX, Pope Leo XIII, Pope St. Pius X, Pope Benedict XV, Pope Pius XI, Pope Pius XII, Pope John XXIII, Pope Paul VI, and Pope John Paul II.

Mary is called "Mediatrix" (Catechism, no. 969) because all grace comes from Christ, and Christ comes only through Mary by the power of the Holy Spirit.

For more information on Mary as Mediatrix, see our Faith Fact Mary's Role in Our Salvation, particularly the section "Mediatrix of All Graces." You might also enjoy Pope John Paul II's encyclical Redemptoris Mater (On the Blessed Virgin Mary in the life of the Pilgrim Church).

United in the Faith,

Sarah Rozman
Information Specialist
Catholics United for the Faith
827 North Fourth Street
Steubenville, OH 43952
800-MY-FAITH (800-693-2484)




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Mary's Role in Our Salvation
Redemptoris Mater (On the Blessed Virgin Mary in the life of the Pilgrim Church)