On Mary. There is no doubt that Mary deserves our respect. As I see it, there could have been no virgin birth if Mary was disobedient, God needed a real servant, an obedient person who could help him carry out his plan. Mary worked together with God (synergeia), she received the co-operative grace. "For He has regarded the lowly state of His maidservant; For behold, henceforth all generations will call me blessed." (Luke 1:48, NKJV) All generations will thank Mary for her contribution to the divine economy, God's plan for salvation.

However, we must not worship Mary. She is the Theotokos, the mother of God. The reason is that Mary is created, and not uncreated. We worship the Lamb of God, but not the mother of God.

Dedicated to my Cahtolic friends, Johannes and Andreas.