On October 3rd, 2025, pilgrims, clergy, and scholars gathered at the Sanctuary of the Virgin Mary in Ephesus for a rich day of theological reflection and spiritual encounter. The symposium, organized under the patronage of the Archdiocese of Izmir, explored the enduring presence of the Blessed Virgin Mary in the life of the Church, drawing insight from both the Gospels and the Syriac Church Fathers.
The event was opened by Archbishop Martin Kmetec, OFM Conv, Metropolitan Archbishop of Izmir, who welcomed attendees with words of gratitude and encouragement. In his introduction, he reminded participants that Mary, though silent in much of the Gospels, remains a living, vital presence in the heart of the Church. She is the one who said “yes” at the Annunciation, stood at the Cross, and received the Holy Spirit at Pentecost. Her fidelity, humility, and maternal intercession continue to inspire the Christian journey today.
The Mother of Jesus in the Gospel of John
Fr. Germano Scaglioni, OFM Conv
The lecture “Mary in the Gospel of John” was delivered by Fr. Germano Scaglioni, a renowned biblical scholar and professor of exegesis. He focused on the theological depth of Mary’s presence in the Gospel of John. Fr. Scaglioni emphasized that John’s Gospel, though sparing in references to Mary, offers a deeply symbolic portrayal of her mission.
At Cana, Mary intercedes for the needs of the wedding guests, setting the stage for Jesus’ public ministry. At the Cross, she is entrusted to the Beloved Disciple, a moment that has long been understood as Jesus’ gift of Mary to the Church as universal Mother. Through these carefully chosen scenes, John presents Mary as a silent but essential cooperator in Christ’s salvific mission—her faith shining forth precisely in her discretion and presence.
Mary in the Syriac Tradition
Fr. Andrew Hochstedler, OFM Conv
Fr. Andrew Hochstedler, whose research and pastoral work have focused on Syriac Christianity, gave a lecture on Mary in the Syrian Tradition. Drawing on poetic texts from the early Syriac Fathers—especially St. Ephrem the Syrian and Jacob of Sarug—Fr. Hochstedler unfolded a rich tapestry of Marian theology rooted in the ancient Aramaic-speaking Church.
He explored the Annunciation as a spiritual drama in which Mary is portrayed as a discerning, courageous woman. In Ephrem’s hymns, Mary is contrasted with Eve: whereas Eve failed to question the serpent, Mary interrogates the angel Gabriel—not out of disbelief, but out of wisdom and spiritual prudence.
Fr. Hochstedler introduced participants to dialogue poems and poetic homilies from the Syriac tradition that imagine the Virgin Mary’s conversations with the angel in great emotional and theological depth. These texts show Mary not merely as a passive recipient, but as one who actively discerns God’s will through questions, eventually offering her full fiat with strength and clarity. Syriac Eucharistic prayers even parallel Mary’s fiat with the epiclesis of the Mass, linking her assent to the Incarnation with the priest’s invocation of the Holy Spirit upon the gifts.
Mary, A Woman of Faith, Hope, and Courage
Fr. Pascal Robert, OFM
Finally, Fr. Pascal Robert offered a deeply pastoral reflection on the Virgin Mary as a model of faith, hope, and courage. He traced Mary’s journey from Nazareth to Calvary, highlighting her total openness to God’s plan despite fear, uncertainty, and suffering.
Fr. Robert emphasized Mary’s solidarity with the poor and the humble. As a mother who raised Jesus in poverty, fled as a refugee to Egypt, and stood beside her Son in His Passion, she teaches us to walk with courage and compassion in today’s world. Her presence at the Cross—silent but strong—makes her the icon of perseverance for all who suffer.
Fr. Robert invited participants to contemplate Mary not only as an historical figure but as a living spiritual mother who guides, strengthens, and intercedes for the Church. He reflected on Mary’s continued role through apparitions and devotion, especially the Rosary, which allows us to pray “with her heart” and to see Christ as she sees Him.
Conclusion and Prayer
The day concluded with words of gratitude and reflection from Archbishop Kmetec, who emphasized that this symposium was not just a scholarly exercise but a spiritual pilgrimage. Following the final address, participants prayed the Rosary together in the sanctuary—entrusting themselves anew to the Immaculate Heart of Mary.
A Day of Prayer, Presence, and Theology
The symposium successfully brought together deep theological insight, rich scriptural reflection, and lived spirituality. It reminded all in attendance that Mary is not simply a revered figure of the past, but a present mother and model, who continues to shape the life of the Church.
As Archbishop Kmetec stated in his opening remarks:
“Mary is not a figure from the past: she continues to accompany us, to pray for us, and to lead us to Christ, her Son and our Lord.”
May her presence continue to guide the Church with faith, hope, and courage.
