11 November 2025
Walking with Mary in the Mission of Christ
A message from Bishop Anthony Randazzo to the clergy, Religious, and lay faithful of the Diocese of Broken Bay
Dear brothers and sisters in Christ,
As Catholics, holding fast to the fullness of faith revealed in Sacred Scripture and Sacred Tradition, we love the Blessed Virgin Mary as our Mother and imitate her as the first and perfect Disciple of her Son. Our devotion to Mary does not take away from Jesus Christ, it always leads us to him.
Recently, the Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith issued a document entitled Mater Populi Fidelis: Doctrinal Note on Some Marian Titles Regarding Mary’s Cooperation in the Work of Salvation. Some have wondered whether this teaching might diminish our love for the Mother of God. In fact, it does the opposite. The Note helps us to understand Mary’s true greatness and to honour her as she most desires, to draw nearer to her Son, Jesus Christ, our Redeemer and Lord.
I offer this reflection so that the clergy, Religious, and lay faithful of our local Church may deepen our shared commitment to walk with Mary in proclaiming the Good News of Jesus Christ.
Mary’s True Role in God’s Plan
The Church teaches that Jesus Christ alone is the Redeemer and Mediator between God and humanity. Yet, in his goodness, Christ allows us, and Mary in a unique way, to share in his saving work.
Mary’s cooperation in salvation was expressed above all in her faith and obedience, from her “yes” at the Annunciation to her steadfast presence at the foot of the Cross. Chosen by the Father, united to the Son, and filled with the Holy Spirit, she shows what divine grace can accomplish in a human life fully open to God.
Clarifying Marian Titles
The Note reminds us that some traditional titles, like Co-redemptrix and Mediatrix, must be understood carefully.
• The term Co-redemptrix is no longer used officially because it can cause confusion. Mary does not add to Jesus’ sacrifice or stand alongside him as a second Redeemer.
• Likewise, Mediatrix should be understood in the sense of Mary’s maternal intercession; she prays for us, helps us to receive grace, and leads us to her Son.
All grace flows from Christ alone. Mary’s role is to prepare our hearts to receive that grace through her prayer, example, and motherly love.
Mary, Mother of Believers
At the Cross, Jesus gave his Mother to us: “Behold, your mother” (John 19:27). Mary’s spiritual motherhood continues within the life of the Church. She walks with the People of God, sharing our joys and sorrows, and teaching us to listen to the Word, to believe, and to love as true disciples.
Our devotion to Mary, through prayer, the Rosary, pilgrimages, and acts of love, should always bring us closer to Jesus, deepen our faith, and strengthen our charity toward others.
A Mother Who Leads Us to Christ
Mary never keeps the attention for herself. Her words at Cana still guide us today:
“Do whatever He tells you.” (Jn 2:5)
This is the essence of Marian devotion, to learn from her how to love Jesus completely and to serve him faithfully in the world. She remains forever the Mother of the Faithful People of God, walking beside us in tenderness, humility, and faith.
May she continue to intercede for our diocesan family, so that together we may proclaim with joy the saving mercy of her Son, Jesus Christ.
Mary, Star of the Sea, pray for us.
With every blessing in the Lord,
Most Rev Anthony Randazzo DD JCL
Bishop of Broken Bay