Understanding Mary: Worship vs. Veneration with Fr. Rob Galea
We are not called to worship anyone and anything except God. My Protestant friends always disagree with me. They say: hey, hold on, Mary was the mother of Jesus, but not the mother of God. And in veneration, as we venerate, we attempt to become like the ones, like the things that we venerate. So I venerate her because I admire and I want the love that she has for Jesus.
Ever found yourself puzzled over the Catholic practice of honoring Mary? In this episode of 'WKLY with Fr. Rob', Fr. Rob Galea clears up common misconceptions about whether Catholics worship Mary or simply venerate her. With a heartfelt and accessible approach, Fr. Rob explains that while Mary holds a special place in the Catholic faith, worship is reserved for God alone.
Mary, given to the world by Jesus at the Cross, serves as a guide pointing us towards her son, Jesus. Fr. Rob shares five compelling reasons why he venerates Mary, including her unparalleled love for Jesus and her role as a warrior-mother who intercedes for us. He emphasizes that veneration is about honoring Mary and striving to emulate her virtues, such as her complete surrender to God’s will. Through personal anecdotes and practical advice, Fr.
Rob invites listeners to deepen their spiritual journey by looking to Mary as a model of faith and devotion. Whether you're a lifelong Catholic or simply curious about the faith, this episode offers valuable insights into the significance of Mary and the distinction between worship and veneration.