We believe Mary and, indeed, all the angels and Saints already in heaven are ideal intercessors, because they are already enjoying the beatific vision (sharing heaven with God). We ask friends and family members to pray for us all the time. Why not those who already stand at the foot of the throne? We believe that Mary in particular has God’s ear, having been chosen to bear His son Jesus and usher in our salvation. When the angel came to her she responded with a resounding “Yes!” despite the potential personal costs (which could have been horrific in her day) because she completely trusted God. We believe her to have been sinless in her life, as well, primarily from the angel’s opening phrase: “Hail Mary, full of grace! The Lord is with thee!” To be filled with God’s grace is to be filed with His spirit. Many of us experience moments of this in our lives, but the original Greek used word forms that suggest much more–the she is filled, has been filled, and will always be filled with God’s grace. In such a state, there is no room for sin. In fact, it is from this very same passage that we infer the Immaculate Conception, that Mary was even conceived free of the stain of original sin in preparation for her becoming Christ’s mother. Thus Mary is our first and most perfect human example outside of Jesus Himself (who was both God and man) for living a truly faithful life. Having been so filled with grace and chosen to bear God’s only begotten, we believe, gives her a special place in heaven and in God’s heart.
