The Mother Of Christ by Father Vassall-Phillips Part 139.


In the Council there was unanimity. It was an easy task to establish the true doctrine in condemnation of the Nestorian novelty. The writings of the Fathers were clear and categoric. There could be no doubt as to the Tradition that had been received from the Apostles.

It was then that Cyril delivered his great " Encomium on the Mother of God."

"Hail, O Holy Mystical Trinity, who has called us all together to this church of Mary, Mother of God.

"Hail Mary, of all things in the world most precious.

"Hail Mary, Mother of God. It is thanks to thee that the Shepherds chanted with the Angels,
Glory to God in the highest and peace on earth to men of good will.'

"Hail Mary, Mother of God, it is thanks to thee that the Wise Men brought their Gifts, guided by the Star.

"Hail Mary, Mother of God, it is thanks to thee that the Glorious College of the Apostles was chosen by the Saviour.

"Hail Mary, Mother of God, it is thanks to thee that the Baptist leaped in his Mother's womb, and that the torch was lowered before the Light that never can be extinguished.

"Hail Mary, Mother of God, it is through thee that the ineffable kindness of our God, of which the Apostle tells, has appeared amongst men.

"Hail Mary, Mother of God, it is from thee that has appeared the true Light, who says of Himself :

'I am the Light of the world.'

"Hail Mary, Mother of God, it is thou who didst give birth to the conqueror of death and hell.

"Hail Mary, Mother of God, it is thou who hast placed in this world its Creator and Redeemer, our Guide to the Kingdom of Heaven.

"Hail Mary, Mother of God, it is by thee that every faithful heart is saved.

"We salute thee, O treasure worthy of veneration, that belongest to all mankind. Crown of virginity! Sceptre of orthodoxy ! Temple that can never be destroyed ! Place of Him who is not held by place!

"We salute thee, Mary, Mother of God."