Hail Mary - Jesus’ Mother In Christian Tradition

The first “Hail Mary” was said by the angel Gabriel, who told this young woman she would give birth to the Messiah (see Luke 1:28). In response to this annunciation, Mary sang a song of praise in which she prophesied, “From now on all generations will call me blessed” (Luke 1:48). That has turned out to be true.

Christians of all stripes honor Mary, the mother of Jesus, but some more than others. While Protestants prefer to stick with the biblical data, Roman Catholics embrace a more elaborate tradition about Mary’s history and eternal role, as do Orthodox believers. The Bible declares that Mary was a virgin when she bore Jesus, but Catholics also hold that she is a perpetual virgin, and so the “brothers” of Jesus mentioned in Scripture were really cousins.

The Immaculate Conception and Assumption of Mary are also part of Catholic teaching, maintaining that she herself was miraculously conceived and that her body was “assumed” into heaven. These and other traditions have served to make Mary a sort of “supersaint,” nearly on a par with Jesus. Some are quick to say that they “venerate” Mary rather than worshiping her. Such veneration goes way back in history. As early as the second century, writers were speculating on Mary’s upbringing, and church councils in the fourth and fifth centuries considered her role in God’s plan. As early as the sixth century, debates were raging over the semantics of viewing Mary as the “God bearer” or the “Christ bearer.” Orthodox believers still honor Mary as Theotokos (God bearer).

Protestants fear idolatry here. In many cultures, religions have male and female deities. Is this just the Christian way of doing the same thing? Does praying to Mary distract from our commitment to Jesus? These are important questions.

Let’s come back to our points of agreement. God chose Mary for a special task, and she accepted it with faith and devotion. She is a great example for us in many ways, perhaps mostly for her submission to the will of God. After the angel unfolded God’s plan for her, she responded, “I am the Lord’s servant. May everything you have said about me come true” (Luke 1:38).

Saying yes to God’s wishes. We can all hail that as a worthy attitude.

“Don’t be afraid, Mary,” the angel told her, “for you have found favor with God!”

Luke 1:30