Why do Catholics almost never call the Virgin Mary 'Santa Maria' in daily conversation?
The episode begins by noting the rare use of 'Santa Maria' by Catholics for the Virgin Mary, suggesting it often indicates a Protestant convert. It establishes that Mary occupies a unique category, with Saint Joseph as the greatest human saint after her. A central tension is addressed: Jesus' statement in Luke 7:28 that no one born of woman is greater than John the Baptist seems to contradict Saint Joseph's exalted status. The episode presents Saint Lawrence of Brindisi's 16th-century resolution, arguing that Joseph's spousal unity with Mary made them 'one flesh, one heart, one soul,' elevating his holiness. It further explains that Jesus' statement about John refers to the Old Covenant, while those in the New Covenant's Kingdom of God are greater. The dignity of Saint Joseph's spiritual paternity of Jesus is highlighted as requiring greater graces than any other saint received. Several doctors of the Church are cited, including Saint Thomas Aquinas, who affirmed Saint Joseph's unlimited intercessory power. Saint Teresa of Avila's personal testimony and 'devotional challenge' are recounted, where she claimed never to have asked Saint Joseph for something he did not grant. A list of saints, blesseds, and mystics devoted to Saint Joseph is provided, including Saint Bernardino of Siena and Venerable Fulton J. Sheen. The episode notes the promotion of Saint Joseph by popes from Blessed Pope Pius IX onward, with Pope Leo XIII teaching his dignity surpasses the angels. Theological distinctions in veneration are explained: 'latria' for God, 'hyperdulia' for Mary, 'protodulia' for Saint Joseph, and 'dulia' for other saints. The latter part transitions into devotional prayers, including a litany to Saint Joseph with titles like 'Terror of Demons' and 'Patron of the Dying.' A series of seven sorrows and joys of Saint Joseph are meditated upon, accompanied by standard Catholic prayers. The episode concludes with an eight-mystery rosary dedicated to Saint Joseph, contemplating events from the Annunciation to his death in the arms of Jesus and Mary.
