Vatican Drops “Co-Redeemer” Title for Mary, Reaffirms Jesus as Sole Saviour

The Vatican has released a new decree approved by Pope Leo, instructing Catholics to stop using certain devotional titles for Mary, the mother of Jesus, particularly “Co-redemptrix” and “Mediatrix.”

For centuries, Catholics have invoked Mary’s intercession through prayers and the rosary, believing her role as Christ’s mother gave her a special place in salvation history. However, the Vatican’s latest document emphasises that while Mary cooperated in Christ’s redemptive mission, her role was entirely subordinate.

“It is always inappropriate to use the title ‘Co-redemptrix’ to describe Mary’s cooperation,” the decree states. “This expression risks overshadowing Christ’s unique role in salvation and distorting the balance of Christian truth.”

The statement further clarifies that neither Mary nor the Church can add to or complete Jesus’ redemptive work. On the title “Mediatrix,” the decree explains that Scripture clearly establishes Christ as the sole mediator between God and humanity.

Although Mary’s maternal participation in Jesus’ mission is acknowledged, the Vatican stressed that her mediation occurred “in a clearly subordinate manner.”

The Church noted that this teaching aligns with previous papal positions. Pope Francis, who repeatedly rejected the idea of calling Mary “co-redeemer,” once said, “Christ is the Mediator — the bridge to the Father. There are no co-redeemers with Him.”

Francis had also described attempts to elevate Mary to the status of “co-redeemer” as “foolishness,” reaffirming that all prayers to God are offered “through Christ, with Christ, and in Christ.”

The decree reaffirms long-standing Catholic teaching that only Jesus Christ accomplished the redemption of humanity, while Mary’s role remains one of faithful cooperation, not equal partnership.