In a significant theological shift, Pope Leo XIV has issued a groundbreaking directive that prohibits Catholics worldwide from referring to Mary as "co-redeemer" or "co-redemptrix." The new decree from the Vatican clarifies that Jesus Christ alone accomplished humanity's redemption through his crucifixion and death.
Vatican's New Directive on Marian Devotion
The Vatican's doctrinal office, under the leadership of Víctor Manuel Cardinal Fernández, published the new decree on November 7, 2025, addressing what it called confusing practices in Marian devotion. According to Cardinal Fernández, some forms of devotion to Mary seen on social media have been creating confusion among ordinary Catholics.
The decree explicitly states that while Mary played a crucial role in redemption by giving birth to Jesus, she was not a "co-redeemer" in the salvation process. This clarification aims to maintain what the Vatican describes as "the harmony of the Christian message as a whole."
Social Media Reaction from Nigeria
The development has generated significant discussion among Catholics in Nigeria and beyond. A Nigerian social media user identified as Makau F. Mully expressed strong support for Pope Leo's decision on platform X.
"Pope Leo has instructed Catholics to stop referring to Mary as the co-redeemer of the world, reaffirming the belief it is only Jesus who redeemed humanity through his crucifixion and death," Mully wrote. "Indeed Leo is an instrument of restoring true worship in Catholic Church."
Biblical and Traditional Foundations
Cardinal Fernández emphasized in his preface to the decree that authentic Marian devotion remains firmly rooted in both Church tradition and Sacred Scripture. The document includes extensive biblical references alongside texts from Church Fathers and recent Pontiffs.
The Vatican's position maintains that while popular devotion to Mary should continue, it must align with proper biblical understanding and not deviate into theological confusion. The note specifically addresses what it calls "Marian reflection groups" and "new devotions" that sometimes propose dogmatic developments not consistent with Church teaching.
This move by Pope Leo XIV comes as the pontiff continues to make his mark on the global Catholic Church, having previously revealed his personal connection to Nigeria through his work at the Apostolic Nunciature in Lagos during the 1980s.
