Elements of Marian mysticism from the Magisterium of John Paul II

Abstract

Since Vatican II both Pope Paul VI and John Paul II have sought to implement a renewal of understanding of the Marian principle in the Church. Pope John Paul II is often referred to as the Marian Pope, because he has given a certain prominence to the Blessed Virgin Mary in his Magisterium. This dissertation seeks to understand some elements of Marian Mysticism from the Magisterium of John Paul II. This work explores briefly the Mariological milieu of the twentieth century, particularly that of Vatican Council II. The Polish Marian Way has contributed to the Church of this period and has left its influence on the formation of John Paul II. In the pontificate of this same Pope the twentieth century Marian phenomenon of Fatima came into the fore front due to the interpretation that he gave to certain events and writings. The core of this work deals with two important Marian sources from which John Paul II draw his Marian mysticism. The rich Carmelite tradition is the main focus because of its great influence on John Paul II's formation. Particular attention is given to some important Marian mystical authors of the Order. The following source is the True Devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary of St. Louis De Montfort because of the special reference made to it by the John Paul II. This work closes with some aspects of the Marian heritage that John Paul II has left to the Church. Particular attention is given to the Encyclical Redemptoris Mater being a document of major significance. The Apostolic Letter Rosarium Virginis Mariae, is dealt with too, because of the profound mystical significance the Pope gave to this prayer. Finally a brief overview of the Marian Catechesis sheds some light on the Mariological method of the Pope.