What is the theological difference between Latria, Dulia, and Hyperdulia?
Catholic theology makes strict distinctions regarding honor: 1) Latria is true worship, adoration, and sacrificial honor due exclusively to God (Father, Son, and Holy Spirit); 2) Dulia is the veneration, honor, and respect given to holy angels and human saints who reflect God's grace; 3) Hyperdulia is the highest degree of veneration reserved uniquely for the Blessed Virgin Mary, honoring her supreme dignity as Mother of God and Queen of Heaven. Catholics never offer Latria (adoration) to Mary or any creature.
Sources
- Catechism of the Catholic Church, paragraph 971
- Catechism of the Catholic Church, paragraph 2132
- Luke 1:48
Awaiting review by the chaplaincy. Written in our own words; the Church's own texts are the authority.