The Immaculate Conception
"Was Mary born without original sin?"
The Short Answer
Mary was preserved from original sin from the moment of her conception by a singular grace of God, in view of the merits of Jesus Christ.
Quick Overview
Think of it like this: God was preparing a special dwelling place for Jesus. Just as the Ark of the Covenant was made of pure gold, Mary was kept pure from the start. God saved her in advance, like paying for a gift before it's given.
Biblical Evidence
What the Scriptures say
What the Church Teaches
Official Catholic doctrine
From the first instant of her conception, Mary was preserved from all stain of original sin by a singular grace from God (CCC 491). This was fitting for her to be the worthy dwelling place of the Son of God.
Common Objections
Questions answered
Early Church Fathers
What the first Christians believed
St. Ephrem the Syrian
c. 350 AD
"You alone and your Mother are more beautiful than any others; for there is no blemish in you, nor any stains upon your Mother."
— Nisibene Hymns, 27:8
St. Augustine
c. 415 AD
"We must except the holy Virgin Mary, concerning whom I wish to raise no question when it touches the subject of sins."
— On Nature and Grace, 36:42
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