On 4 November, the Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith issued a “Doctrinal Note on Some Marian Titles Regarding Mary’s Cooperation in the Work of Salvation”.
This text, whose apparent concern is not to “obscure Christ’s unique salvific mediation”, teaches that “it is always inappropriate to use the title ‘Co-redemptrix’ to define Mary’s cooperation”, and that “special prudence is required when applying the term ‘Mediatrix’ to Mary”.
Caricaturing—in order to distance itself from—the traditional terminology of the Church, and moreover prolix in beautiful considerations on the maternal role of the Virgin, this “Note” seeks to minimise the role entrusted by God to His Associate in the work of Redemption and the salvation of souls: on the one hand, it asserts that the Blessed Virgin Mary did not intervene in the acquisition of grace; on the other, Her universal and necessary role in the dispensation of graces is weakened almost to the point of denial. She is acknowledged only an undefined function of maternal intercession.
With its misleading admonitions, the Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith “obscures” Our Lady’s unique collaboration in the work of salvation. It dethrones the Virgin Mary and offends Divine Wisdom. Lastly, it scandalises all Christians, who are deeply wounded by this grave attack on the greatness of their Mother and dismayed to see Her mission within their souls so deliberately restricted.
Profoundly outraged and eager to make public reparation for such an offence, the priests of the Society of Saint Pius X invite all affiliated priests and the faithful to join them in prayer on Sunday, 16 November. At every public Mass celebrated that day, an intention of reparation will be added for the offence and scandal committed. After each Mass, the Litany of the Blessed Virgin and the Stabat Mater will be sung or recited.
May the Virgin Co-Redemptrix, through Her powerful intercession, dispel the present darkness and rekindle the faith of Her children.
“Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do.”
