The Vatican has officially ruled out the use of the title Co-redeemer for the Virgin Mary, saying it risks creating confusion among the faithful and undermining the unique redemptive work of Jesus Christ.
In a doctrinal note released on Tuesday, November 4, 2025, and approved by Pope Leo XIV, the Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith (DDF) said that while Mary’s role in Christ’s saving mission is honoured, she cannot be described as sharing in His act of redemption.
The document, titled Mater Populi Fidelis (“Mother of the Faithful People”), stated clearly:
“It would not be appropriate to use the title ‘Co-redemptrix’ to define Mary’s cooperation,” adding that such usage “risks obscuring Christ’s unique salvific mediation.”
The note reaffirmed that Jesus Christ remains the only Redeemer, quoting Scripture:
“There is salvation in no one else” (Acts 4:12). It also clarified that while devotion to Mary as “Mediatrix of all graces” may continue, it must always recognise her role as subordinate to Christ.
Cardinal Víctor Manuel Fernández, Prefect of the DDF, said the declaration followed “a long and careful process” aimed at ensuring doctrinal precision and unity in Catholic teaching.
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The now-rejected title Co-redemptrix had been promoted by some Marian groups who believed Mary’s “yes” at the Annunciation and her presence at the Crucifixion signified active participation in the work of redemption.
Church leaders including Pope Francis, have long opposed that interpretation.
“Mary is our Mother, not a goddess, not a co-redeemer,” Pope Francis said in a 2021 address.
With this statement, the Vatican has brought a formal close to decades of debate over the title, reaffirming one of the Church’s central teachings that salvation comes through Christ alone.