Protestant Perspectives and Objections

Many Protestant denominations do not accept the title “Mother of the Church” for Mary, primarily due to differing views on Scripture, authority, and the role of tradition.

Sola Scriptura: Protestants generally adhere to the principle that doctrine must be explicitly grounded in Scripture. Since the title “Mother of the Church” is not directly stated in the Bible, many reject it as a theological development not supported by the text. The Catholic understanding of Mary as Mother of the Church is rooted in Scripture and Tradition. In John 19:26–27, Jesus, from the Cross, entrusts His mother to the beloved disciple:

“Woman, behold your son… Behold your mother.”

This moment is interpreted by the Catholic Church as Jesus giving Mary not only to John but to all His disciples—symbolically making her the spiritual mother of the Church.

Mary’s presence at Pentecost (Acts 1:14), praying with the apostles as the Holy Spirit descends, further affirms her maternal role in the birth of the Church.

Christocentric Focus: Protestants emphasize Christ as the sole mediator and head of the Church. Citing “I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me” (John 14:6).

They may view Marian titles as detracting from Christ’s central role.

Concerns about Marian Devotion: Protestants are cautious about Marian doctrines and devotions, fearing they may lead to undue veneration or even idolatry. Martin Luther says, “We must be careful to give her the honor that is due to her. Unfortunately, I am concerned that we may be giving her too much honor, as she is being given more importance than what should be given to her or than what she considered for herself.”

But the church says that the devotion given to Mary is called Hyperdulia, which is the special veneration reserved for Mary. Latria, is the supreme worship reserved for God alone. Thus, debunking Martin Luther’s statement that devotion to Mary may lead to idolatry.

Just as she gave birth to Christ, she now helps give birth to His mystical Body. Pope Paul VI’s declaration of Mary as Mother of the Church was a theological affirmation of her role in salvation history and her ongoing spiritual motherhood. In 2018, Pope Francis added the Memorial of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of the Church to the Roman Calendar, celebrated on the Monday after Pentecost, inviting the faithful to reflect on her maternal care for the Church.

To call Mary the Mother of the Church is to affirm that the Church is not merely an institution, but a family—a community born of love, guided by the Spirit, and cared for by a mother. In Mary, Catholics find not only the mother of Jesus but the mother of all believers, who continues to guide the Church with tenderness and strength.