“Well [does the Gospel say]: married but a virgin; because she is the type of the Church, which is also married but remains immaculate.
Ambrose of Milan, Expositio in Lucam 2, 7; PL I5, 1635-36.
The Virgin [Church] conceived us by the Holy Spirit and, as a virgin, gave birth to us without pain. And perhaps this is why holy Mary, married to one man [Joseph], is made fruitful by another [the Holy Spirit], to show that the individual churches are filled with the Spirit and with grace, even as they are united to the person of a temporal priest.”
Throughout the Old Testament, God wants to be united with His chosen people. For example, the Song of Songs and Hosea, speak about this relationship. And despite the bride’s infidelity the groom still wants her, and He will accept her if she returns to Him. This was actualised in the coming of Jesus and the establishment of the Church. But, of course, the groom is Jesus Christ, and the bride is His church. In essence, the bride can be each believer in the Church. How much are we willing to remain faithful to Christ?
If you are interested in more quotes on Virgin Mary, you can find them in Mary and the Fathers of the Church on Amazon in both in 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.
Figuratively, Mary did give birth to us in pain as she stood beneath the Cross sorrowfully gazing upon her suffering and dying Son. It was through her sorrow that Jesus redefined her motherhood when he said to his blessed mother, “Woman, behold your son, and to the disciple, “Behold your mother.”
Very deep, thank you. May God give you wisdom for the Glory of His name.