# The Seventh Privilege: The Perfect Virginity of Mary
*2015-03-29*

> Bill Young reflects on the seventh privilege of the 12‑star devotion—Mary’s perfect virginity—drawing on Scripture and the Apostles’ Creed.

## Opening Prayer

Good afternoon, I’m Bill Young. Let us begin in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Amen.

Lord, come to my aid; make haste to help me. Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, without end. Amen.

## Reciting the Apostles’ Creed

I believe in God, the Father Almighty, creator of heaven and earth. I believe in Jesus Christ, the only Son, our Lord, conceived by the power of the Holy Spirit, born of the Virgin Mary. He suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died, and was buried. He descended into hell, rose again on the third day, ascended into heaven, and is seated at the right hand of the Father. He will come again to judge the living and the dead. I believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy Catholic Church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and life everlasting.

## The Perfect Virginity of Mary

How could this be, since I have no husband? (Luke 1:34, RSVCE). Mary’s response to the angel reveals the mystery of her perfect virginity. She is the “lily among thorns,” a pure and radiant vessel.

The Blessed Virgin Mary shines as a glory to all creation, exalted in her immaculate virginity. Those who entrust themselves to her intercession become living temples of God. In vocation we are called to be both mother and virgin, following Mary’s example. Nothing is impossible for God; He can transfigure our bodies and souls with her gentle, pure light.

## Prayer to Mary

Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with thee. Blessed art thou among women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus. Holy Mary, my love, pray for us sinners, now and at the hour of our death. Amen.

*Mary’s perfect virginity invites us to trust wholly in God’s impossible grace.*