This reflection, by Joe Green, is based on the section on Mary in Lumen Gentium (Light to the Nations), one of the documents of Vatican II.
The reflection centres on this carving of the Madonna held in the Te Papa collection.
As the Body of Christ, the Church with Christ as its head honours Mary as its mother.
† Mary is the role model for the Church: she accepts the call of God, steps out in faith, participates in salvation history, raises Jesus and supports His mission, receives the Holy Spirit.
† The carver has suggested the concept of the Virgin Mother of God by placing a full facial moko (tattoo) on the face of Mary. In doing so, he has likened her to an Ariki Tapairu – the firstborn female in a family of high rank. Ariki Tapairu were invested with special tapu (sacredness). They weren’t allowed to marry or be touched by men, and their full moko signified their status.
† Mary is Mother of God and Mother of the Redeemer, linked to her Son as only a mother can be.
† Mary also appears to be standing on a head. In Maori symbolism, this is a reminder that man comes from woman.
† As a mother, Mary is able to intercede with her Son, Jesus Christ. He is the sole mediator to God.