The Story of Mary: Mother of God

Mary’s Life Journey

Mary’s Birth

Mary was born in Jerusalem

She would have been educated at the Temple, with all the other Jewish Children.

Mary at School

During this time Mary took a vow of Chastity (virginity).

She was also visited by angels.

Jewish girls were considered marriageable at age 12 years and 6 months. She would have been released from school at 12 for this reason.

Mary and Joseph

It was tradition that girls were betrothed (engaged) for one year before marriage.

Mary was betrothed to Joseph, during this time she would have been considered the property of Joseph while living with her parents.

Annunciation

During this year of engagement, Mary was visited by Angel Gabriel.

The Angel told her that she was chosen by God to carry His son, Jesus.

Mary visits Elizabeth

Mary immediately shared the news with her cousin Elizabeth.

Elizabeth had also received a miracle, she became pregnant after being declared barren (unable to have children).

At this time, being barren was considered punishment for sinfulness.

Mary sees Elizabeth

When Elizabeth saw Mary, Elizabeth’s child leapt with joy.

This was a sign that both women had received gifts from the Holy Spirit.

Elizabeth was the first to call Mary “Mother of God”

Joseph

Joseph was shocked to discover that Mary was pregnant.

Not knowing of the incarnation, he is filled with shame and embarrassment until he is visited by an angel of the Lord in his sleep.

The angel said:

Journey to Bethlehem

In Mary’s ninth month of pregnancy, a decree is announced from Caesar requiring everyone to return to their birth place for a census.

Mary and Joseph make the long journey to Bethlehem from Jerusalem.

The Nativity

Mary’s labour began when she arrived in Bethlehem.

Mary and Joseph were turned away three times before given shelter in a “manger” (grotto).

This was the place of Jesus’ birth.

The Nativity

Mary and Joseph remained in the grotto for several days.

Mary swaddled the baby and laid him in the manger .

During this time the Holy Family is visited by Angels, Shepherds and Kings.

The Passion

Mary watched silently as Jesus did God’s work: He taught, performed miracles, challenged laws and gathered disciples.

Finally Jesus’ life was sacrificed for the sins of all humankind.

Mary watched silently as Jesus was tried, whipped, carried his cross and was crucified alongside criminals.

The Resurrection

Jesus died for three days and was raised to heaven on the third.

On this day, his body disappeared and he was lifted into heaven to sit on the right side of God His Father.

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Mary

It is believed that Mary ascended into heaven to be with Jesus, God and the Holy Spirit.

Mary is our perfect example of following God’s will.

She gave up all her own desires to fulfill God’s will.