Answers for Mystical Christianity lesson #8 from Bob Koenig

Questions For the Heart and Mind

1. How do you view Mary of Nazareth?

I have heard everything from her just being a girl picked at random to take on the duty, to her being cosmically 'chosen' and picked 1,000 years before her birth, and after all the generations, she was the perfect one God had in mind. Like God's Trinity, I'd like to see an earthen trinity with John (The Baptist), Mary, and Jesus.  Reading Maria Valtorta's volumes of "Poem of the Man-God" , She obviously had a lot of effect on Jesus' teachings and ways.  She is seen as a Goddess to many, and with all the visions people have had of Her, We HAVE to take notice! If she started as a 'mere' human, she was transformed the instant she said "yes".

2. What does it mean to call Mary "the maternal face of God"?  In what ways is she the White Virgin?

She had purity in ways even more than virginity. Her purity, along with being Jesus' mother, made her the Mother of God icon she is today. As a mom, we think of her as being more approachable than God or Jesus. Seems that she is, as a Rosary can be prayed to her, and her visions and miracles have effected many. Catholics say they don't worship her, but they will pray to her first. Her kindness, grace and sincerity seem to be easily revealed. Praying to Mary works!! I know.

3. Is it fair to maintain that the Mary of the Church is a projection of a celibate, male priesthood created for political purposes?

The Church is often labelled as the bride. is Mary seen as the bride of God? Not outright, no.  Her image for women as a perpetual virgin is a tough woman to emulate. I suppose Nuns try to be like this, or even priests to be celibate.  I suppose it also keeps women out of becoming priests.  Though Mary Magdalene could be seen as the first woman priest.

4. Riane Eisler states that "Religion supports and perpetuates the social organization it reflects." What ways can you work to shift our culture away   from a dominator mentality and more to partnership with each other?

Mary in Her visions and messages does not work alone....why can't it be seen that if she and Jesus are still with us to be miraculous...why not show a Male and female structure?  Mary's messages are peaceful, and her visions keep those lucky to be able to see and hear spellbound. They say there is nothing more beautiful or peaceful than Her. Jesus was a man of Peace.  make a Church that follows them both. Actually, there is one!! Look up "Center of Light"