Vatican Issues Decree: Faithful Must Stop Using ‘Co-Redemptrix’ Title For Mary

By Micheal Chukwuebuka

The Vatican has released a new decree, approved by Pope Francis, instructing Catholics worldwide to cease using the titles “Co-redemptrix” and “Mediatrix” for the Virgin Mary, arguing they risk undermining the centrality of Jesus Christ.

The decree addresses devotional practices that have persisted for centuries, where the faithful, believing in Mary’s special role in salvation history as Christ’s mother, have invoked her intercession through prayers and the Rosary.

However, the new document, issued by the Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith, offers a firm correction. It emphasises that while Mary cooperated in her son’s redemptive mission, her role was “entirely subordinate” and must not be described in language that suggests equality.

“It is always inappropriate to use the title ‘Co-redemptrix’ to describe Mary’s cooperation,” the decree states. “This expression risks overshadowing Christ’s unique and singular role as Redeemer.”

The statement further clarifies that neither Mary nor the Church can add to the redemptive work of Jesus, which is considered complete. On the separate title “Mediatrix,” the decree explains that the Scriptures establish Christ as the “one mediator between God and mankind,” and Mary’s own mediation is understood to occur only “in a clearly subordinate manner.”

This teaching aligns with Pope Francis’s longstanding personal stance. He has frequently and publicly rejected the idea of declaring Mary a “co-redeemer.” In a past remark, he dismissed such attempts as “foolishness,” firmly stating, “Christ is the Mediator. There are no co-redeemers with Him.”

The Vatican’s decree is seen as an effort to preserve doctrinal clarity and reaffirm the core tenet of Christian faith: that salvation was accomplished solely by Jesus Christ, with Mary’s role being one of faithful discipleship and cooperation, not partnership.