I'm a Protestant but interested in the RCC assertions on a number of fronts. Could you provide any source material on when the holy position of Mother Mary first came about. Scriptural references first since this is a scripture alone string (use your RCC bible) then anything else. Please help me learn.
Well let's see here;
1. The Angel Gabriel came and spoke to her saying she would bear the Savior, so I would say that was a pretty big deal in itself.
2. She is to be forever called "Blessed'. So how many of us get this moniker for the rest of our lives and have it placed in the Holy Writ?
3. She is to be "made with child" by the Holy Spirit. That's a pretty holy occasion for sure.
4. She is mentioned many times in the Scriptures and is at some the most important places during Jesus's ministry.
5. She is at the crucifixion, and contrary to standard Jewish practice, Jesus gives her to a non relative for safekeeping, which some have interpreted as her being given to all of us.
6. She has been described as the "New Eve", and in the Book of Revelation the "Queen of Heaven".
All that is pretty standard stuff in the world of orthodox Christianity.