Encyclical Redemptoris Mater “Mother of the Redeemer”
Reflection 1: “Unique Grace”
Encyclical Reflection Introduction
Sacred Scripture of both the Old Testament and the New Testament, as well as ancient Church tradition, shows us the role of Mary in God’s salvific plan. Mother of the Redeemer, one of her many titles, speaks to the ‘grace filled’ relationship God has with her and His desire of her to share such grace with us. Because of ‘the fall” and our sinful nature, God knew he would need to have a ‘new Economy’[1]for mankind. A plan for redemption. Through the flesh of Mary, the Son of God takes human form from her so that He can be present with us in the flesh and proclaim ‘The Good News’. To help prepare us to reflect on Mary in Saint John Paul’s II encyclical Redemptoris Mater, we must first briefly look at what The Second Vatican Council wrote in their dogmatic constitution document called Lumen Gentium, “A Light for the World”. This reflection today sets a foundation for us to reflect on Mary and her role in our salvation. Today’s reflection will have us hear about Mary’s ‘unique holiness’ provided to her by God
