Old Catholic and Independent Catholic traditions hold a high veneration for Mary as the Mother of God Theotokos and the greatest saint, similar to the Roman Catholic Church. While all these groups honor Mary with profound veneration, they are distinct from Roman Catholicism, often emphasizing her unique role in salvation history and her powerful intercession for the faithful.
Veneration: The Old Catholic Church honors Mary with profound veneration, recognizing her as the Theotokos (Mother of God) and the highest of all created beings.
Role: She is seen as the Mother of the Church who continuously intercedes for the faithful.
Tradition: This devotion is expressed within the framework of Western liturgy, informed by the writings of both Latin and Greek Fathers, and maintained in continuity with apostolic faith.
Independent Catholic Church and Mary
Emphasis on Motherhood: Independent Catholic communities also emphasize Mary’s role as the Mother of God, a concept central to their theology.
Intercession: Similar to other traditions, they believe Mary’s prayers are powerful, and they seek her intercession in their lives.
Diversity: Due to the independent nature of these communities, there can be variations in specific devotions, but the core belief in Mary’s high status remains.
Unique examples: Some Independent Catholic groups, such as the Order of the Most Holy Mary Theotokos, have a particular focus on the title “Theotokos” and a commitment to maintaining a balance between unity and liberty in theological viewpoints regarding Mary, according to their founding principles.
Key similarities and differences
Similarities: Both Old and Independent Catholic churches share with Roman Catholicism the belief that Mary is not to be worshipped, a practice reserved for God alone. Both traditions venerate her as the Mother of God and the greatest of saints.
Differences: The main difference lies in the distinct traditions that Old and Independent Catholic churches originate from and are rooted in. These traditions, while often sharing a common lineage and high regard for Mary, may differ in their specific theological emphasis, and their organizational structures, and their relationship with the Roman Catholic Church.