Mater Populi Fidelis – “Mary, Mother of the Faithful People” or “Mother of Believers”
The document Mater Populi Fidelis, which means “Mary, Mother of the Faithful People” or “Mother of Believers”, reflects a careful study of the role of the Blessed Virgin Mary in salvation and Christian devotion. It does not introduce anything new or criticise Marian devotion, but rather offers a clear clarification of the Church’s teaching about her.
We are already aware, and the Church reaffirms by biblical authority, Mary’s deep participation in Christ’s mission as the loving Mother of Believers, the Spiritual Mother, and the Mother of the Faithful People. However, this document specifically addresses one title often used for Mary, “Co-Redemptrix,” stating that it is not suitable for use.
The Co-Redemptrix in the salvation of World
The reason lies in the word “co-”, which usually means “with” or “together with.” When people say Co-Redemptrix, it can sound as though Mary worked alongside Christ as an equal partner in saving the world. But Christian teaching is clear: Jesus Christ alone redeemed humanity through His death and resurrection. Mary cooperated in a unique way, by saying “yes” to God and standing with her Son in faith and suffering, but she did not redeem us herself.
The document explains that using Co-Redemptrix could mislead people into thinking Mary shares the same redemptive power as Jesus. That is why the Church prefers titles like Mother of Believers or Spiritual Mother, which express her closeness to Christ without confusion.
Mater Populi Fidelis also teaches that while Christ is the only Mediator, Mary’s intercession is real but dependent on Him. She prays for us and guides us to her Son, yet all grace comes from God through Christ alone.
Also the title “Mediatrix of all grace” is not wrong but must be used in context.
The document states that Mary can be understood as “mediatrix” only in a subordinate and participatory way, she intercedes for us but does not dispense grace herself. Her maternal intercession reveals the power and mercy of her Son, not a separate source of grace.
In simple terms, Mary walks with the Redeemer, she is not another redeemer. She is the Mother of the Faithful, pointing all hearts to Jesus, the one and only Saviour.
