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The Immaculate Conception

The Immaculate Conception doctrine, model and image, is one of the signature pieces of the Marian century (1830-1960). The dogmatization of the Immaculate Conception in 1854, after centuries of reflection, discussion and controversies, marked important aspects of 19th century Marian devotion reaching deep into the 20th century.

The Image of the Immaculate Conception is a memorial to the militant and powerful Madonna, the one who leads the Church into new battles (nova bella) to return the world to God. She is an image of constancy in faith standing on the crescent moon, symbol of our wavering commitment to God – waxing and waning like the moon. The Immaculate Conception, as can be seen, is placed between the crushed dragon under her feet and the protecting gesture of the hovering and powerful figure of God. Mary's grandeur and sanctity is God's grace, not her personal merit. 

Frequently invoked as model of purity, the Immaculate Conception is first and foremost a model of full transparency to both God and humanity. In her we perceive the original, the immaculate concept of he human person created by God.

– Father Johann G. Roten, S.M., Director of Research and Special Projects

Visit the exhibit Epinal: Popular Art for Mind and Heart in the Marian Library Gallery to see 33 Images of Epinal, categorized into nine themes, from the Marian Library collection. 

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Featured content for the first week of Lent.
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Weekly Features: Feb. 15, 2016

Featured content for the first week of Lent.
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