24.

 Explain the term Theotokos.

            As noted earlier, Theotokos is Greek for Birthgiver of God. The Fathers of the Council of Ephesus (Third Ecumenical Council) wanted to maintain this title, for it protects a correct understanding of Christ's Person. Mary is venerated in the first place precisely because of Christ. The title Theotokos insures that Mary is not glorified as an end in herself, or apart from Christ, but only in her relation to Him. The veneration of the Mother of God can never detract from the worship of God. In fact, just the opposite is true: the more we call “the very Theotokos” to remembrance and venerate her, the more we “commit ourselves and one another and all our life unto Christ our God.”