Just as the mother is at the center of the family, so Mary is at the center of every Catholic's daily life -- yet her role is often misunderstood. In this learning guide, theology professor and former Protestant minister Kenneth J. Howell clearly describes the central importance of Mary to not only every Catholic, but every Christian. Here he explains the reasons behind the four Marian dogmas and discusses the Marian apparitions at Guadalupe, Lourdes, and Fatima -- and what those apparitions mean for all of us. This resource also includes some best-loved Marian prayers and a list of the Church's Marian feast days. We are the children of God; in this family of believers Mary is our spiritual Mother, instructing us by her example of fidelity, obedience, and devotion to Christ. She plays a vital role in God's plan of salvation for all his children. This guide will awaken you to that knowledge. Book jacket.