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Start for freeThe Blessed Virgin Mary: Intrinsic to Christian Worship
Father Mike Schmitz, through the Catechism in a Year podcast, takes us on a spiritual journey, exploring the profound role of the Blessed Virgin Mary in the Catholic Church. Over the course of 365 days, the podcast aims to read through the Catechism of the Catholic Church, uncovering the sheer goodness of God's plan for us. On Day 133, the focus is on paragraphs 971 to 975, which delve into the church's devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary and her pivotal role as the eschatological icon of the church.
Devotion to the Blessed Virgin
The devotion to Mary is not just a tradition; it's an integral aspect of Christian worship. Scripture itself declares, "All generations will call me blessed," highlighting the universal recognition of Mary's blessedness. This devotion is intrinsic to Christian worship, as acknowledging Mary's role leads to a deeper understanding and love for Jesus Christ. The Catechism emphasizes that this special devotion fosters adoration for the Incarnate Word, the Father, and the Holy Spirit, distinguishing it from the worship that belongs to God alone.
Mary: The Eschatological Icon
Mary serves as the eschatological icon of the church, offering a glimpse into what the church aspires to be at the end of times. Her unique relationship with the Holy Spirit and her full cooperation with God's plan illustrate the transformative power of grace. This makes Mary an exemplar for the church, showcasing the potential for human beings to be fully transformed in love by Jesus Christ, through the power of the Holy Spirit.
The Church's Journey and Mary's Role
The journey of the church, from its origin and mission to its ultimate destiny, finds a profound conclusion in the contemplation of Mary. She embodies what the church is and what it aims to be, making her an indispensable figure in understanding the church's essence. The catechism notes that by pronouncing her Fiat at the Annunciation, Mary was already collaborating with the entire work her son was to accomplish, highlighting her role as the mother wherever Jesus is the savior and head of the mystical body.
Conclusion
The devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary, far from being a mere tradition, is a fundamental aspect of Christian worship that leads to a deeper love and understanding of Jesus Christ. As the eschatological icon of the church, Mary represents the ultimate fulfillment of the church's journey, serving as a model of faith and cooperation with God's plan. This exploration of Mary's role invites us to reflect on our own journey of faith, encouraging us to embrace Mary's example in our lives.
For those interested in a deeper dive into these teachings, following along with the Catechism in a Year podcast by Father Mike Schmitz is highly recommended. It’s an enriching experience that brings the teachings of the Catholic Church to life, one day at a time. To follow along with any recent version of the Catechism of the Catholic Church, visit Ascension Press.
