In this lecture, His Holiness Pope Shenouda addresses the meaning and reasons for venerating the Virgin Mary within the Coptic Orthodox tradition, explaining the different positions (Protestants, Catholics, and Orthodox) and clarifying that our primary reliance is on the Holy Scriptures.

Reasons for veneration

He explains that the veneration of the Virgin is based on multiple biblical facts: the angel’s greeting to her, her Magnificat in Luke 1, the effect of her voice on John in his mother’s womb, the Holy Spirit’s coming upon her and the phrase “full of grace.” These facts make her worthy of veneration—not as a theological equal to Christ, but by virtue of her motherhood and her service to God.

Biblical titles and symbols

He presents the titles the Church takes from Scripture: Mother of the Lord, Mother of the Savior, Mother of Light, “city of God,” “Ark of the Covenant,” “the dove,” “the ladder,” etc., clarifying that these titles and metaphors are derived from the texts and express her spiritual rank and role in the plan of salvation.

Interpretation versus excess

He clarifies that some criticisms and exaggerations (such as Protestant criticism or the excesses of some Catholics) result from misunderstanding or literal interpretation or hyperbole that exceeds the text. Orthodox veneration is balanced and founded on Scripture and tradition without contradicting doctrine.

Form of veneration and its fruits

He mentions forms of veneration: feasts and fasts in her name, hymns and praises, building churches, and seeking her intercession; that he who venerates the Virgin venerates Christ Himself and receives blessing; and he who denies her loses much.

Conclusion and practice

He concludes that veneration should be contemplative and acknowledge her rank according to Scripture, and that addressing or asking her in prayer is not “worship” but addressing during supplication to God, noting that the Church distinguishes between prayer to God and asking intercession from the saints.

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