Marian Willies

Marian Willies March 26, 2013

A reader writes:

I have been a convert for over 10 years now, and I still do not feel comfortable with many Marian cultural practices, devotions, etc. Before I converted, I was a member of the church of Christ, and I still struggle with many Marian devotions (not dogmas like the Assumption, though.) I can barely read about St. Louis de Montfort without breaking out in some sort of cold sweat, and doubting my decision to become Catholic. This is really strange, because I have no trouble with anything else: the Real Presence, confession, Apostolic succession, Humanae Vitae. Just a couple of weeks ago, I went ot an event with an inlaw where every prayer that was said was to Mary. During a break, I said to this relative that I didn’t understand why Mary was invoked so often and God was not. She had no problem with any of it, however. So what is my problem? Why can’t I embrace this? Any suggestions?

Two recommendations.

First, until you really get Marian theology, the devotional willies are pretty common. Once you get the theology, the willies fade. For a sort of brief synopsis of my take on Marian theology go here:

However, what I really recommend is that you get hold of my book Mary, Mother of the Son, which will allay your fears and put the devotions in context. The problem is, the book is out of print at present. However, it will be back in print within a few months from Marytown Press. Keep your eyes peeled. When it comes out I will announce it on my blog!


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