[No_Outcome_But_Victory]

I have to admit as an incoming convert, this is one of the doctrines I have the most difficulty with. The other is of course, the Assumption.

[Pyro7480]

Here's an article on the theologian who, through the grace of God, solved the theological dispute over the Immaculate Conception: John Duns Scotus and His Defence of the Immaculate Conception

[sojourner]

I am also new to Catholicism and in RCIA right now. I agree with you that this doctrine is a difficult one to understand and I appreciate this post. I've been trying to read about this feast in anticipation of mass on Wednesday.

To me, the Assumption is easy to believe IF you believe that Mary was without sin. Others were close to God and were taken up without dying (Enoch, Elijah and of course, Jesus). I can buy into the idea that if you didn't sin, or if you received a special cleansing from God, that you don't need to experience death. Getting to the "without sin" part with Mary has been the more challenging effort for me.