Expert: Edward Bode - 5/19/2007

Question
QUESTION: When did Mary begin to take hold of he church
Why does she appear to have such a high profile and where is the biblical evidence for such a stranglehold when Jesus is the head?

ANSWER: I do not think that Mary has "taken hold" of the Catholic church.  She has received great veneration and a place of prominence among the holy followers of Jesus since the time of Jesus.
Luke 1:26-38 recalls how Mary was favored to be the mother of Jesus and that she freely consented to the role.  Such is the basis for her special place in the history of salvation.
John 19:25b-27 recalls the emphasis on Mary at the crucifixion.
Acts 2:14 records a personal naming of Mary's presence in the Upper Room after Jesus' ascension.
Respect for Mary does not diminish the place of Jesus as savior and head [Ephesians 1:20-23, 2:4-9, 4:14-16].
So, if one takes a comprehensive view of the New Testament, Christ and his mother both have roles -- His is the chief one.
If you would like further thoughts, please feel free to write again.
Best wishes, John.

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Mary is rightly mentioned many times as are the Disciples but I still feel uncomfortable about the dilution of Jesus as head. Jesus said that He would build the church on Peter so where are the icons etc of him as there are so many icons of Mary. Surely there is only one way to the Father and yet I am confused that catholic christians appear to pray through Mary. Jesus said who is my mother and who are my brothers? taking the onus off His family connections. At the wedding Jesus said why do you bother me woman? Mary naturally appears with her Son and Family members many times in the bible and yet the she still takes pride of place. Why does Lazarus not take pride of place after all Jesus raised him from the dead? Still confused I'm afraid regards John

Answer
I am not sure that counting icons would determine the role of Peter and Mary in the Church.  The answer to the enigmatic response of Jesus at Cana to Mary comes from Jesus' words to her beneath the cross.
Lazarus was a special friend of Jesus and received a special gift of being raised from the dead.  We hear no more of him in the New Testament after the passion of Jesus.
In assessing the message of the New Testament, we need to look at all the verses.  Mary does have some prominence; Jesus has greater.
In Catholic teaching, one is not required to pray to Mary for her intercession.  However, many through the centuries have prayeed for her intercession and have been heard.  The practice of followers does not alter the reality of Jesus as the one savior and Mary as his specially-graced mother.
However, one must follow the teachings and the commands of Jesus.
I hope these thoughts are of some help.  If not, please let me know some specifics that bother you.
Again, best wishes, John.