Christian Cyclopedia

RC dogma “that the most Blessed Virgin Mary was preserved from all stain of original sin in the first instant of her conception, by a singular grace and privilege of almighty God, in consideration of the merits of Jesus Christ, savior of the human race” (Pius IX, bull [or encyclical letter] Ineffabilis Deus, December 8, 1854). The bull continues that this has been revealed by God and must, therefore, firmly and constantly be believed by all the faithful.

See also Mariolatry; Roman Catholic Confessions, C.