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3.7 - Mary as a model of the Church (The implication of this teaching for…
3.7 - Mary as a model of the Church
Essential info
She is a personal role model for Catholics: open to God and willing to accept his requests despite the difficulties.
There are many feat days, special prayers, and places of pilgrimage dedicated to Mary.
Mary is seen as a model for the Church because of her faith, trust in God, discipleship, and charity.
How is Mary a model of the Church?
She is a role model, but this is separate to her role as model of the Church.
She is the embodiment of what it means to be Catholic
Her life reflects the value, teaching, and beliefs of the Catholic faith.
How is Mary a model of the Church
Discipleship
She is sometimes called the first disciple - she had faith in Jesus from the moment of conception. This is why she is a model for the Church, not just discipleship, as her sacrifice and service began before Jesus' birth.
"And Mary said'Behold, I am the handmaid of the Lord'" (Luke 1)
Faith and Charity
She accepted the risk of carrying Jesus. She obeyed the command in Joseph's dream to flee to Egypt. She is seen as charitable by encouraging Jesus to solve the problem of a lack of wine at the wedding in Cana. She watched Jesus at the foot of the cross.
"The Virgin Mary is the Church's model of faith and charity" (CCC 967)
Joined with Jesus
Doctrine about Mary is also about Jesus. She is the mother of the Church since she is the mother of Jesus (as the Church is the body of Christ)
Mary's role in the Church is inseparable from her union with Christ" (CCC 964)
The implication of this teaching for Catholics today
Hymns, prayers, and poems are dedicated to Mary.
The Rosary
There are many Marian solemnities (important feast days)
There are religious orders dedicated to Mary such as the Marist Fathers.
She has many titles including Theotokos (Mother of God) and Madonna.
Marian apparitions have led to shrines and places of pilgrimage.
Most Churches have statues of Mary, or even separate Lady Chapels.