[MHGinTN]

From what I understand, Christians of that time believed, almost without exception, that Mary was a virgin her entire life. Would you like to tell me what is the source of your 'From what I understand'? If there is not one scripture passage that indicates this and not one Apostle or student of an Apostle who has written this assertion, how have you come to believe this, especially when the Bible indicates the opposite?

[rwa265]

Christians of that time was a reference to the 4th century. The historical record indicates that Mary’s perpetual virginity was a widely held belief at that time. As I wrote, I cannot point to any documents prior to the 2nd century.

[boatbums]

These “sources” Catholics like to imply early Christians believed concerning Mary as well as the early life of Jesus are actually gnostic writings which appeared much much later (tenth century or later). See:

http://www.earlychristianwritings.com/infancythomas.html

http://www.earlychristianwritings.com/infancyjames.html