Since her first mention in the Bible, Mary the Mother of God has been at the heart of the Christian story and Christian tradition.Chris O'Donnell takes 40 key references to Mary, from the gospels, to the writings of Christian mystics, to Byzantine Liturgy, and to the documents of Vatican II, and reflects on the wide range of ideas and presentations of Mary which are available to all of us.From the familiar devotions Hail Mary, the Angelus, and the rosary, to not so well know references in Vatican documents and the code of Canon Law, the author provide a range of texts and reflections on the meaning and role of the Mother of God, both in the gospel stories and in our everyday lives.The position of Mary in the Protestant tradition, and in the Byzantine tradition is also reflected upon in this collection.Even for those who feel they are familiar with Mary, this book is a treasure chest of new insight and understanding.A book of reflections on Mary, Mother of God, by one of Ireland's leading mariologists. These reflections come from a lifetime of thought, investigation and prayer and will appeal to everyone who has a devotion to Mary. They cover the range of scholarship, contemplation and prayer thoughout the history of the church and offer new insights into the tradition of Marian devotion so intrinsic to the spirituality of the Catholic Church and to many members of the Reformation churches.