Sacred Space and Self: Feminist Reflections in the Church of Mary

This study recontextualizes Mary's obedience and nurturing characteristics as a counterbalance to Eve's disobedience, symbolically representing a trajectory towards reconciliation and redemption. It delves into Mary's multifaceted role as a bestower of life and grace, her intrinsic maternal compassion, and her facilitation of female empowerment. Through this analytical framework, it offers a nuanced perspective on pilgrimages to sacred sites associated with Marian veneration, suggesting that these journeys transcend mere historical and religious connections to become platforms for personal healing, spiritual growth, and the exploration of feminine identity. The research is underpinned by a fieldwork conducted at the Church of Mary in Ephesus, Turkey. This fieldwork involved the organization of a Marian workshop aimed at exploring themes pertinent to women within the context of Marian spirituality. The research findings provide detailed insights into the manner in which the Marian space serves as a unifying force, shaping and reshaping the experiences, beliefs, and identities of women who engage with it. This includes exploring how participation in Marian devotion fosters a sense of solidarity and connection among women, how the rituals and practices within the Marian space influence their perspectives and behaviors, and how their encounters with Mary as a figure of spiritual significance contribute to personal growth and transformation.