Pope Leo XIV Rejects the Title “Co-Redemptrix” for the Virgin Mary in New 2025 Doctrinal Note

In November 2025, Pope Leo XIV approved an important Doctrinal Note titled Mater Populi Fidelis (“The Mother of God’s Faithful People”), published by the Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith.
The document brought clarity to a theological debate that has persisted for decades:
Can Mary be called the “Co-Redemptrix”?

The Vatican’s official answer is no — and the reason is deeply rooted in the Christian faith in Christ as the one and only Redeemer of humanity.

Who Is Mary in the Catholic Faith?

Before understanding this decision, it’s essential to recall who Mary is for Catholics.
The Church teaches that Mary is:

• Mother of God (Theotokos) — because she gave birth to Jesus, the Son of God.

• Mother of the Church — since, at the foot of the Cross, she was given as mother to all disciples.

• Model of faith and obedience — the perfect example of union with the divine will.

Mary participated in a unique way in the history of salvation, offering her yes to God’s plan and remaining faithful until the end.
However, her cooperation is subordinate to and dependent on Christ, the one and only Savior.

What Pope Leo XIV Said About Mary as “Co-Redemptrix”

The document Mater Populi Fidelis makes it clear that the title “Co-Redemptrix” should not be used officially.

According to the text:

“The term ‘co-redemptrix’ can be misleading, as it may suggest an equality or parallelism between the redemptive action of Christ and Mary’s cooperation. Such an idea is theologically inaccurate and pastorally confusing.”

The Pope reaffirms that Redemption is the unique and exclusive work of Jesus Christ, the Son of God made man, who died and rose to save humanity.

Mary, on the other hand, cooperated in a singular way but did not redeem.
She is rightly called the ‘Mother of God’s Faithful People’, a title expressing her maternal tenderness and intercession without compromising Christ’s central role.

Why the Church Rejected the Title “Co-Redemptrix”

This decision is not a demotion of Mary’s role, but rather a protection of the core of the Christian faith.

The document explains that using the term “co-redemptrix” can:

• Cause doctrinal confusion, suggesting that Mary is a second redeemer alongside Christ;

• Weaken the understanding that Jesus alone is mediator between God and humanity (1 Tim 2:5);

• Complicate catechesis and ecumenical dialogue with other Christian communities.

Instead, Pope Leo XIV encourages the use of clearer and more biblical titles for Mary, such as:

• Mother of Believers

• Helper of Christians

• Mother of God’s Faithful People

These titles express the truth of Mary’s maternal love and intercession without confusing her role with Christ’s.

What This Means for Catholics Today

For the faithful, the Doctrinal Note Mater Populi Fidelis is an invitation to understand Mary within the mystery of Christ and the Church.
She remains:

• A mediatrix in the order of grace, yet always dependent on Christ;

• A powerful intercessor who leads her children to Jesus;

• A model of faith, humility, and service.

Thus, Pope Leo XIV reaffirms a balanced Mariology — honoring Mary without overshadowing Christ.

Conclusion

Pope Leo XIV’s decision to reject the use of the title “Co-Redemptrix” does not diminish Mary’s greatness. On the contrary, it places her in her rightful place within God’s plan.

She is the first among the disciples, the Mother of the Savior, and our spiritual Mother — the one who always leads us to Christ, the only Redeemer of the world.

“Do whatever He tells you.” (John 2:5)