Vatican Rules Mary Should Not Be Called ‘Co-Redeemer’ With Christ

The Vatican has issued a new directive instructing Catholics to stop referring to the Virgin Mary as a “co-redeemer” alongside Jesus Christ. The decree, released by the Vatican’s doctrinal office and approved by Pope Leo, emphasizes that the role of salvation belongs to Christ alone.

According to the document, while Mary holds a central and revered place in the Christian faith for giving birth to Jesus, she did not share in the act of redeeming humanity. The statement explains that Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross is the sole foundation of salvation, and the use of titles such as “co-redeemer” or “co-redemptrix” creates theological confusion.

The decision settles a longstanding debate in Catholic circles that has divided scholars and even previous popes. Pope Francis had openly rejected the title in 2019, calling it “foolishness” and stressing that Mary never sought to elevate herself. His predecessor, Pope Benedict XVI, also opposed the designation. Pope John Paul II had at one time supported the term but later stopped using it publicly.

The decree warns that attributing a co-redeeming role to Mary risks overshadowing the unique place of Jesus Christ in Christian faith. Cardinal Víctor Manuel Fernández, head of the doctrinal office, noted that the clarification responds to increasing devotion practices, including those spread through social media, which may unintentionally mislead believers.

Observers say the move reflects the Vatican’s effort to moderate certain growing forms of Marian devotion. Last year, the Church tightened rules on supernatural claims such as reported apparitions, following concerns over misinformation and fraudulent claims online.

Vatican analysts suggest the latest clarification may be welcomed by more progressive Catholics who have long argued that Mary should be honored as the most exalted human figure in Christianity—without assigning her a divine or semi-divine role.