The Bible introduces Mary as an extraordinary figure right from the start. In the Gospel of Luke, after the Annunciation by the angel Gabriel, Mary visits her cousin Elizabeth. Filled with the Holy Spirit, Elizabeth exclaims with awe, “Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb!” (Luke 1:42). These words emphasize not only Mary’s special role as the mother of Jesus but also highlight her as a person graced and blessed by God.
In the Catholic Church, Mary is called the “Mother of God” (Theotokos) not because she is the source of Jesus’ divinity, but because she gave birth to His divine and human Person—Jesus Christ, who is both God and man. The Catechism of the Catholic Church clearly explains that Mary is the mother of the whole Person of Christ, not only His human nature (CCC 495). This unique motherhood is why the Church honors her as the Blessed Mother.
So why do we call Mary our Mother, even though she is not our biological mother? The answer lies in the mystery of the Mystical Body of Christ. Jesus is the head of this Body, and we are all members of it. Because Mary gave birth to Jesus, she is spiritually our mother—she created us as God’s spiritual children. This spiritual relationship was confirmed at the cross when Jesus said to John, “Behold your mother” (John 19:27), entrusting Mary to the whole Church, meaning each one of us.
Mary not only gave birth to us spiritually but also nurtures and guides us. Her maternal care is expressed in her constant prayer, intercession, and teaching, helping us become faithful followers of Jesus. This spiritual motherhood remains alive and active in the life of every believer.
Mary’s role in salvation history is pivotal. She was chosen by God to be the instrument of His saving plan. Her obedience and faith opened the door to our redemption. In Catholic theology, Mary is often called the New Eve—contrasting with the disobedience of the first Eve, whose sin brought death and separation from God. In Mary, we see the beginning of new life in Christ.
Mary is also the Mother of the Church. This role comes from her union with Christ in the work of salvation and continues in heaven, where she intercedes for us and cares for us spiritually. The Church honors her as the most faithful spiritual Mother who helps all believers grow in faith and grace.
On Mother’s Day, as we express gratitude to our earthly mothers, let us not forget Mary—our Blessed Mother, spiritual guardian, and guide on the path to salvation.
