Innocent virgin, spotless, without defect, untouched, unstained, holy in body and in soul, like a lily-flower sprung among thorns, unschooled in the wickedness of Eve, unclouded by womanly vanity.
Theodotus of Anchyra ,
… Even before the Nativity, she was consecrated to the Creator.
Holy apprentice, guest in the Temple, disciple of the law, anointed by the Holy Spirit, clothed with divine grace as with a cloak, divinely wise in your mind; united to God in your heart. … Praiseworthy in your speech, even more praiseworthy in your action. … Good in the eyes of men, better in the sight of God
Homily 6 on the Nativity of the Lord, 11; PO 19, 329.
If you want more quotes on Virgin Mary, you can find them in Mary and the Fathers of the Church on Amazon in both Kindle and paperback formats.
References:
Gambero, L., 1999. Mary and the Fathers of the Church 1st ed. Translated by Buffer, T., San Francisco: Ignatius Press.
