Studies in Mariology (2 vols.)

Fr. Denis Farkasfalvy discusses the development of Catholic doctrine regarding the Blessed Virgin Mary. The damage done by much modern speculative theology largely stems from the failure to distinguish fact from fiction in the study of Mariology. Farkasfalvy addresses this, beginning with a biblical and patristic inquiry about the place and meaning of Mary in salvation history with reference to the Hebrew Scriptures. He recognizes that Matthew 1–2 and Luke 1–2 cannot be read in isolation from the Mariological tradition of the second century—which emphasized the Mary/Eve parallel from Genesis.

Following the lead of the evangelists, the Church Fathers established the link between Christology and the role of Mary as Virgin and Mother. Such eminent theologians as Origen, Athanasius, and Ambrose professed and defended the universally acknowledged article of faith regarding Mary’s perpetual virginity. The contributions of the Eastern Churches were key to the development of the Church’s teachings on Mary and her role as Mother of God. The doctrine of Mary’s sinlessness, leading to the formulation of the doctrine of her Immaculate Conception is thoroughly treated by Farkasfalvy, as is her Assumption into heaven and her role as Mother of the Church.

The Pontifical International Marian Academy presents a comprehensive overview of the questions facing Mariology today. As a document coming from a Pontifical Academy, the sources are the writings of the great teachers of the Church, the texts of the liturgy, the ecumenical councils, the various dicasteries and commissions of the Holy See, and the Episcopal conferences. Its purpose is to clarify several controversial matters and point the way to future theological developments in our knowledge and appreciation of Mary—luminous icon of the Trinity, Mother of God, and the Mother of us all.