Q: My Catholic daughter-in-law says she cannot accept the Church doctrine on the virginity of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Please help! — S.
Answered by Fr. Edward McIlmail, LC:
It’s not uncommon for even self-described faithful Catholics to have a difficulty with a Church teaching.
We live in a culture shaped by rationalism and materialism and scientism and so can find it hard to embrace certain divinely revealed truths.
On the other hand, when people have doubts about a Church dogma (and Mary’s perpetual virginity is among the highest-level teachings) there might be another issue lurking in the background.
Catholics don’t tend to wake up one day suddenly doubting Our Lady’s virginity.
Perhaps your daughter-in-law has stumbled across one too many dissident YouTube videos. Or maybe something else is rattling her faith.
That said, you could consider a few steps.
First, intensify your prayers for your daughter-in-law. Ask the Holy Spirit to strengthen her faith.
Second, read up on the topic yourself, and then invite your daughter-in-law to read or view the same materials. This might give the both of you grounds for a deeper conversation.
These articles on the case for Mary’s perpetual virginity; how to explain it; and evidence from John 19 might help.
In the meantime, try to remind her of your love for her. If she senses your genuine concern, she might be open to hearing what the Church has to say.
And offer up rosaries for your daughter-in-law. Our Lady will intercede for you and your kin.
