The Vatican has issued a new decree, approved by Pope Leo, urging Catholics to stop referring to Mary, the mother of Jesus, as “co-redeemer.”
The directive refines several traditional titles used for Mary, including “co-redemptrix” and “mediatrix,” emphasizing that while she holds a special place in salvation history, only Jesus Christ redeemed the world.
For centuries, Catholics have invoked Mary’s intercession through prayers such as the Rosary, honoring her as the mother of God and a key figure in the divine plan. However, the new decree underscores that Mary’s role was subordinate and supportive, not equal to Christ’s redemptive work.
“The Virgin Mary cooperated in a unique way in God’s plan, but salvation comes solely through Jesus,” the document stated.