Q: I have a friend who is Christian but not Catholic. She asked why we Catholics pray to Mary for intercession when God already taught us how we should pray as stated in Matthew 6:9. I want to know the answer, too. Thank you. – Paula
Answered by Fr. Edward McIlmail, LC
A: There is nothing wrong with intercession; in fact, it is part of God’s plan.
The Old Testament is full of examples of intercession. Think of Moses interceding for the Israelites constantly in the desert (example: Numbers 14:11-20).
Think of the prophets whom God sent to Israel. Their work included intercession and mediation.
Think, too, of the centurion who sent Jewish elders to intercede with Jesus in Luke 7:1-10. And Jesus praised his faith!
St. Paul strongly encouraged prayers of intercession. “I ask that supplications, prayers, petitions, and thanksgivings be offered for everyone, for kings and for all in authority, that we may lead a quiet and tranquil life in all devotion and dignity. This is good and pleasing to God our savior” (1 Timothy 2:1-3).
Hasn’t your friend ever prayed for someone else? Don’t you ever pray for other people? That is intercession, too.
As to your specific question about why we pray to Mary: Who else would be a better intercessor than the Mother of Jesus, who was faithful to him all the way to Calvary?
Mary, in fact, is the mediatrix of all graces. This title arises from her cooperation in the Incarnation and in the redemption of mankind.
God permitted the redemption of mankind to depend on the free-will decision of a human being. Mary’s “yes” at the Annunciation opened the path for the coming of Jesus into the world.
That is why the graces that come through Jesus may be said to come to us, in a secondary way, via Mary; she is the not the origin of the graces but rather a conduit. Jesus alone redeemed mankind.
In any case, intercession is natural for us. How often do children approach Mom when they want something from Dad?
Intercession helps to unite us and expresses our desire to look out for one another.
For related reading, see these Catholic Answers posts on Mary and all the saints.
I hope some of this helps. Count on my intercessory prayers for you and your friend.
