I find it appalling that the Church claims Mary consented…
““I find it appalling that the Church claims Mary consented at the age of thirteen to become the mother of God.” “But she did,” James said. “There is ample evidence to show she consented.” “Isn’t that the classic defense of the pedophile?” Helena asked. “In Christ’s time and even today in some countries in the Middle East and India, child marriages are customary. But that doesn’t make it right. In Europe and the U.S. we prosecute adults for preying on children. God would be arrested for impregnating a girl below the age of consent.” “People didn’t live as long then,” James said. Helena would not back down. “But human biology hasn’t changed. My point is she was too young to consent. The brain of a young teenager isn’t fully developed.” “The mysteries of the faith require us to have faith.” “Don’t hide behind that nonsense. What kind of message is the Church sending to women? Only virgin children are pure? Experienced mothers are impure and unfit to raise Christ? It’s creepy and insulting when you think about it, but you would have me suspend rational judgment and just accept something I would tear your eyes out for thinking about my underage sister?””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
The conversation challenges the moral acceptability of a young girl's consent to a religious role, questioning modern standards versus historical context.
In simple terms: Questioning whether a child could truly consent to a sacred role.
Key Takeaway
Consider age and consent in moral judgments.
Themes
ethics
religion
consent
Mood
critical
thoughtful
Type
debate
philosophical
When to use this quote
- church doctrine
- modern law
- cultural practices
Key Concepts
historical relativism
child rights
theology
Questions to Reflect On
- Should ancient practices be judged by today’s standards?
- How do we balance tradition with child protection?
A Different Perspective
Historical norms differ, but modern ethics still apply.