Expert: The Ven. Dr. Brian A. Evans - 7/17/2001

Question
How is the Anglican position on the role of the Virgin Mary for contemporary Christians similar/different from both Roman Catholic teaching and traditional Protestant beliefs?

Answer
Dear Scott,

The Anglican Position on the Virgin Mary is esentially the same as the Roman Catholic, although there is less emphasis placed on her.  We, for instance, don't use the term 'Mother of God', but 'Mother of the Redeemer', but is counted as pre-eminent among the Saints.  Protestants, and here I exclude Anglicans, do not place the same importance on her.  She is simply the "Mother of Jesus', and as a human, does not deserve any special devotion.

Hope this is of some help.

Brian+