Maria e la Chiesa nell’ interpretazione di René Laurentin

Abstract

We are aware of the importance of Mary, the mother of Jesus in the life and faith of the People of God, especially as emphasized repeatedly by the documents of the Church. To better understand this and the significance of Mary, as the Mother of God, and her place in the plan of salvation and her unique relationship to the Church, we look to one of the 20th century’s prominent Mariologists - René Laurentin. The French theologian draws our attention to the various dimensions of Mary’s life, which can serve as a model for the community of believers. Undoubtedly, she is the first disciple of her Son. God speaks to her through his Word in varied ways and in difficult moments. It is in this way, Mary travels the path from natural parental relationship to Jesus, to the spiritual relationship of Master and disciple. Within this context, the Church is invited to the listen to the Word of God, and follow the Master, even in difficult moments. Reflecting, we see Mary as mother, not only of the physical body of Jesus, but also of his spiritual body - the Church. In her silent presence, prayers and sacrifices she assists at the death of Christ at Calvary and also at Pentecost, giving rise to the new community of believers. Around her gather the frightened disciples from whom the Master was taken away. Here they can experience Mary’s maternal care, which did not stop, after she left the world. According to R. Laurentin, it is precisely through the Assumption that the Virgin can more fully participate in the love of God towards people and thus more fully realize her motherhood towards all men. It is no wonder the Church sees in Mary not only her Advocate, but also a prototype. Like the Virgin, she wants to become a mother and give birth to new believers for Christ. Lie the Holy Mary, she desires to bring the Savior to the world and “give birth to Him” everyday through the sacraments in the hearts of the faithful. Lie Mary, the Church desires to reign, trough service of the most needy, instituting the Kingdom of God wherever she reaches. In the final analysis, the Church also looks attentively at the end of Mary’s life, seeing in her Assumption in soul and body the end and purpose of her own existence.