Mary

What does the Catholic Church teach about Mary, the mother of Jesus? Do Catholics worship Mary?

The Catholic Church teaches that Mary was a virgin when she gave birth to Jesus and remained a virgin throughout her life. The doctrine of the Immaculate Conception teaches that Mary was born without original sin. The doctrine of the Assumption teaches that at the end of her earthly life, Mary's body was assumed (that is, raised) into heaven.

Style notes:

Catholics do not worship Mary, since worship is reserved for God alone. However, they do venerate her, which means to honor her.

Catholics pray to Mary and other saints to request their intercession. The phrase "pray to," used in the Catholic sense, does not imply worship.

Titles commonly used to refer to Mary are "Our Lady," "the Blessed Mother" "the Blessed Virgin" and "the Virgin Mary."