An Open Heart

Ron was so blessed to hear Fr. David explain the importance of the Virgin Mary and our Anglican understanding of it on Sunday. Fr. David characterised Anglicanism as the "Goldie Locks" denomination of Christianity- neither elevating Mary's role beyond reason, nor fleeing from her presence in fear of heresy. The Anglican position is thus, "just right-not too hot nor too cold!" In Anglicanism we recognize Mary's complete submission of her heart unto her God, Yahweh, that enabled the Father to bring forth the birth of Jesus from a virgin. Such pure humility is indeed an example for us to follow without losing sight of the fact that it is her unique Son, Jesus, that brings us reconnection with our Father and thus our salvation and life eternal. Many people new to Anglicanism seem to find it difficult to find that "just right" balance of neither worshipping Mary instead of the Father, nor of ignoring her as though she didn't exist and wasn't anyone special! But, what you believe DOES matter!

I have seen attempts to include Mary as part of the Trinity and attempts to deny even her virginity at the time of Jesus's birth. Why can't we recognize her unique blend of humility and openness to the power of God? Which of the images included portrays your perception of Mary?