Since I wasn't blogging when this document was released, I feel compelled to reference it again on this Feast of the Assumption of the BVM:

Mary: Grace and Hope in Christ

A year ago May, I boldly emailed a link to the Catholic News Service article announcing the document's release

Agreement on Mary's role in Christian life
with a copy of the document to a number of non-Catholics whom I know from Bible studies.

I wouldn't dream of such recklessness these days since misunderstanding and offense seems commonplace in the blogosphere.

The ARCIC document itself is consonant with my personal take on Marian matters. I wish that other Christians could open themselves up to at least considering whether such statements might find room in their own theologies as well.

Some quotes from the article:

"It is impossible to be faithful to Scripture and not to take Mary seriously," the document said.

While Anglicans may object to the way the dogmas [Immaculate Conception & Assumption] were proclaimed [invoking papal infalliability], ARCIC members said the teachings make sense when seen in the light of a scriptural pattern through which God prepares those he has called to fulfill a special mission and rewards those who wholeheartedly cooperate with him.

It seems to me that Mary’s life is a shining example of some very Protestant beliefs, namely, predestination, effectual calling, irresistible grace and perseverance of the saints.

She, of anyone, was “eternally secure”, could not lose her salvation. So, then, on the contrary, she ought to be a stumbling block for Catholics because Scripture portrays her as docile, as “being” rather than “doing” and Catholic tradition remembers her in contrast to (SAINT!) John the Baptist who does - preaches, fasts, baptizes, etc.; the "Mary" to his "Martha".