Episode 2422: The Boundless Love of Mary Our Mediatrix and Comforter - Morning Episode

Prelude: Dormition of Mary
In traditional Catholic theology, the Dormition of the Blessed Virgin Mary refers to the belief that Mary, the Mother of Jesus, fell asleep (dormitio) and was assumed into Heaven. This event is celebrated as the Feast of the Assumption on August 15.
Here's a detailed look at the traditional understanding:
1. Dormition:
The term "Dormition" comes from the Latin word "dormitio," meaning "sleep." According to tradition, Mary did not experience a physical death as others do but rather a peaceful falling asleep, a transition from earthly life to heavenly glory. This belief underscores the idea that Mary, as the Mother of Christ and the most holy of all human beings, was spared the corruption of death.
2. Assumption:
Following her Dormition, Mary was assumed into Heaven body and soul. This belief is grounded in the tradition of the early Church and has been formally declared as a dogma of the Catholic Church by Pope Pius XII in the Apostolic Constitution Munificentissimus Deus in 1950. The dogma asserts that Mary, having completed her earthly mission, was taken up into Heaven in her entirety.
3. Biblical and Patristic Foundations:
While the Assumption of Mary is not explicitly described in the Bible, the tradition is supported by the theological understanding of Mary as the new Ark of the Covenant and the Queen of Heaven. Early Christian writers and Church Fathers, such as St. John Damascene and St. Gregory of Nyssa, referred to Mary's assumption, reflecting a belief that was deeply rooted in the early Church's devotional life.
4. Theological Significance:
The Assumption is viewed as a sign of hope and the fulfillment of God's promises. It signifies the ultimate triumph of grace over sin and death. Mary's assumption serves as a prefiguration of the resurrection of all the faithful, affirming that those who live in grace will also be raised to eternal life.
5. Devotional Practices:
The Feast of the Assumption is a major liturgical celebration in the Catholic Church. It is a Holy Day of Obligation, meaning Catholics are required to attend Mass on this day. Devotions, prayers, and hymns in honor of the Assumption reflect the importance of Mary's role in salvation history and her elevated status in Heaven.
In summary, the Dormition and Assumption of Mary highlight her unique role in salvation history and underscore the Catholic understanding of the dignity and sanctity of the Mother of God.

Welcome to today's episode, where we will delve into the profound and comforting role of the Blessed Virgin Mary as depicted in the teachings of the saints and Sacred Scripture. We’ll explore the boundless love Mary offers us, her role as a mediator between us and her Son, and how this relationship can enrich our spiritual lives. Through the insights of St. Gabriel Possenti and St. Louis de Montfort, as well as the teachings from Romans 5:1-5, we will deepen our understanding of Mary's vital role in our journey of faith.
Mary’s Unconditional Love and Assistance
St. Gabriel Possenti beautifully encapsulates the essence of Mary’s maternal love and care in his quote:
“Love Mary! She is loveable, faithful, constant. She will never let herself be outdone in love, but will ever remain supreme. If you are in danger, she will hasten to free you. If you are troubled, she will console you. If you are sick, she will bring you relief. If you are in need, she will help you. She does not look to see what kind of person you have been. She simply comes to a heart that wants to love her.”
Mary's role as a loving mother is central to the Catholic faith. Her love is not contingent upon our worthiness but is an unconditional and ever-present comfort. In times of distress or need, Mary’s intercession is a beacon of hope and solace. This reflects her role as a constant advocate who is ever-ready to help those who turn to her with sincere hearts. Her love and assistance are not based on our merit but on her boundless and divine compassion.
Mary as the Mediatrix
St. Louis de Montfort expands on the role of Mary with the following profound reflection:
“Let us say boldly with St. Bernard that we have need of a mediator with the Mediator Himself, and that it is the divine Mary who is the most capable of filling that charitable office. It was through her that Jesus Christ came to us, and it is through her that we must go to Him. If we fear to go directly to Jesus Christ, our God, whether because of His infinite greatness or because of our vileness or because of our sins, let us boldly implore the aid and intercession of Mary, our Mother. She is good, she is tender, she has nothing in her austere and forbidding, nothing too sublime and too brilliant. In seeing her, we see our pure nature.”
Mary's role as Mediatrix underscores her unique position in the divine economy. She is the channel through which we approach Jesus, our Redeemer. Her maternal nature makes her an accessible and compassionate intercessor. For those who may find the direct approach to Jesus daunting due to our sins or His divine majesty, Mary serves as a gentle and loving bridge. Her pure and tender nature assures us of her capacity to intercede on our behalf with boundless compassion.
Embracing Mary’s Role in Our Spiritual Journey
The relationship between Mary’s intercession and our personal faith journey is beautifully complemented by the assurance of divine love found in Romans 5:1-5:
“Therefore, since we have been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have gained access [by faith] to this grace in which we stand, and we boast in hope of the glory of God. Not only that, but we even boast of our afflictions, knowing that affliction produces endurance, and endurance, proven character, and proven character, hope, and hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out into our hearts through the holy Spirit that has been given to us.”
This passage highlights the grace and peace we receive through Jesus Christ, with the love of God being poured into our hearts. Mary’s role as our intercessor aligns with this grace, providing us with the peace and support needed to endure trials and grow in virtue. Her intercession is an integral part of how we experience and respond to the divine love and grace given to us.
Practical Steps to Embrace Mary’s Intercession
To fully embrace the blessings of Mary’s intercession, we can integrate her into our daily lives through:
Regular Devotion: Engage in daily prayers and devotions, such as the Rosary, to deepen your relationship with Mary and seek her intercession.
Trust and Surrender: Practice surrendering your worries and needs to Mary, trusting in her loving care and guidance.
Acting with Love: Let Mary's example of love and compassion inspire your interactions with others, striving to mirror her virtues in your daily life.
Conclusion
In today’s episode, we’ve explored the profound and comforting role of the Blessed Virgin Mary in our spiritual lives. St. Gabriel Possenti’s depiction of Mary’s unconditional love, combined with St. Louis de Montfort’s understanding of her role as Mediatrix, provides a deep insight into how Mary supports and intercedes for us. Romans 5:1-5 reinforces this by showing us the divine grace and love that Mary helps us access through her maternal care.

By embracing Mary’s intercession and allowing her to guide us, we open ourselves to a deeper experience of God's love and grace. Let us turn to Mary with trust and devotion, knowing that she will never fail to support us in our journey of faith.
Thank you for joining us today. May Mary, our loving Mother and intercessor, guide you and bring you peace as you navigate your spiritual path.