During the first few centuries of the Church, many debated the role of Mary, and bishops argued about her motherhood. It took the Council of Ephesus in 431 to put many of these matters to rest and affirm her title as Mary, Mother of God.
St. Cyril of Alexandria was present at this council and composed this beautiful prayer at the end of his sermon, which is included in the Office of Readings for the feast of the Dedication of St. Mary Major.
Who can put Mary’s high honor into words? She is both mother and virgin. I am overwhelmed by the wonder of this miracle. Of course no one could be prevented from living in the house he had built for himself, yet who would invite mockery by asking his own servant to become his mother?
Behold then the joy of the whole universe. Let the union of God and man in the Son of the Virgin Mary fill us with awe and adoration. Let us fear and worship the undivided Trinity as we sing the praise of the ever-virgin Mary, the holy temple of God, and of God himself, her Son and spotless Bridegroom. To Him be glory for ever and ever. Amen.
