My Catholic brothers and sisters and other peoples of faith, blessing to you all! I have a quick question on the concept of Immaculate Conception. What is the purpose of this concept? Is it supposed to be taken literally i.e. that a woman conceived without intercourse? I believe that this is biologically impossible. And this was the work of some higher being? Then based on the story what of her husband? No pun intended, but I would have taught that she cheated on me. Anyway, putting my secular thinking aside; if not to be taken literally is there some deeper meaning or message that is to be derived from the story or concept? If so, what? The doctrine of the Immaculate Conception was defined circa 1854 (although I think the concept was around way before this) by Pope Pius Xl. What was the Pope’s purpose for solidifying this doctrine in the church? Would really like to get some info...what do you guys think? Blessings