Józef Kudasiewicz's Mariology for the Catholic Church in Poland

Kazimierz Pek

The John Paul II Catholic University of Lublin , Poland
https://orcid.org/0000-0003-1492-6747

Abstract

Józef Kudasiewicz’s (1926-2012) biblical studies constitute an important contribution to explaining or promoting vital Mariological issues, his theological sensitivity being shaped by Polish Marian devotion and by the teaching of the Second Vatican Council. Kudasiewicz convincingly argued for the need of pursuing ecclesiotypical Mariology. The Virgin Mary is prophesied in the Old Testament as the Daughter of Zion, while the New Testament shows her as an Icon of the Church. A better understanding of the dignity and function of Jesus’ Mother is obtained with the acceptance of the motto: “through Jesus to Mary”, very much embraced by John Paul II and biblically justified by Kudasiewicz. The latter scholar’s Mariological publications include a meditative commentary to all biblical references to Mary, grounded in the context of the Church in Poland. In this way, Kudasiewicz arrives at several (frequently unpopular) propositions as to proper Marian devotion.

Keywords:

Józef Kudasiewicz, Polish Mariology, ecclesiotypical Mariology, motto: trough Jesus to Mary