Mary Today According to the New Catholic Catechism

Abstract

John F. Brug critically examines the portrayal of Mary in the Catechism of the Catholic Church, highlighting its reaffirmation of doctrines such as the Immaculate Conception, perpetual virginity, bodily assumption, and Mary’s role as mediatrix and advocate. Brug notes that Mary is presented as sinless, uniquely holy, and intimately involved in Christ’s redemptive work. The Catechism emphasizes her intercessory role and encourages veneration of her images, integrating Marian devotion into Christian worship. While the Catechism claims these teachings do not detract from Christ’s sole mediatorship, Brug argues they do undermine the biblical truth that Christ alone is mediator between God and man. He concludes that despite ecumenical dialogues suggesting convergence between Lutherans and Catholics on Marian doctrine, the Catechism shows no substantial change in Rome’s position. Any shift in fellowship attitudes, Brug asserts, reflects changes on the Lutheran side. Generated by Microsoft Copilot (GPT-4).