Vatican Clarifies Marian Titles, Rejects 'Co-redemptrix'

Vatican Issues Doctrinal Note on Marian Titles

The Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith (DDF), the Vatican's principal doctrinal office, published a significant document on Tuesday, November 4, 2025, titled 'Mater Populi Fidelis' ('Mother of the Faithful People of God'). This 'Doctrinal Note on Certain Marian Titles' aims to clarify various aspects of Marian devotion and address specific appellations attributed to the Virgin Mary.

The document, which received approval from Pope Leo XIV on October 7, responds to numerous inquiries and proposals concerning Marian devotion that have reached the Holy See over recent decades. It seeks to deepen the theological foundations of Marian devotion by defining Mary's place in relation to believers, emphasizing Christ's role as the sole Mediator and Redeemer.

Rejection of 'Co-redemptrix' Title

A central point of the 'Mater Populi Fidelis' note is its explicit rejection of the title 'Co-redemptrix' for the Virgin Mary. The DDF states that using this title is 'inappropriate' because it 'risks obscuring Christ's unique salvific mediation and can therefore create confusion and an imbalance in the harmony of the truths of the Christian faith'. The document clarifies that this expression 'does not help extol Mary as the first and foremost collaborator in the work of redemption and grace, for it carries the risk of eclipsing the exclusive role of Jesus Christ'.

The theological debate surrounding the title 'Co-redemptrix' has persisted for decades, with some proponents advocating for its dogmatic declaration, while critics argue it exaggerates Mary's importance and could hinder ecumenical efforts. Popes, including Pope Francis, have previously underscored that 'Christ is the only Redeemer'.

Clarification on 'Mediatrix' and Encouraged Titles

Beyond 'Co-redemptrix', the Doctrinal Note also addresses the title 'Mediatrix' or 'Mediatrix of All Graces'. The DDF concluded that 'some titles, such as 'Mediatrix of All Graces,' have limits that do not favor a correct understanding of Mary's unique place'. The document encourages the use of titles that emphasize Mary's motherhood, such as 'Mother of God' and 'Mother of the Faithful People of God'.

The note was signed by Cardinal Víctor Manuel Fernández, Prefect of the DDF, and Monsignor Armando Matteo, Secretary for the Doctrinal Section. In a preface, Cardinal Fernández noted that the document also serves to caution against certain Marian reflection groups, publications, and new devotions, particularly those disseminated through social media, which can potentially sow confusion among Catholics.