I was recently given a chalenge to provide eveidence of pre-niene fathers and theyr over whelming support for Catholic Dogma. Basically looking for a resource where I can find such teachings as Inmaculate Conception, The sacraments, The papacy and the likes. If possible I would like something that offers quick references and is avaialble online…
Try
scripturecatholic.com/
For example, on this site one can find pre-Nicene Fathers who support the Dogma of the Real Presence and Transubstantiation as well as the Marian Dogmas.
I do believe these are all quotes from pre-Nicene Fathers who support the Dogma of the Immaculate Conception found here
scripturecatholic.com/blessed_virgin_mary.html#tradition-II
**“He was the ark formed of incorruptible wood. For by this is signified that His tabernacle was exempt from putridity and corruption.” Hippolytus, Orations Inillud, Dominus pascit me (ante A.D. 235).
“This Virgin Mother of the Only-begotten of God, is called Mary, worthy of God, immaculate of the immaculate, one of the one.” Origen, Homily 1(A.D. 244).**
“Let woman praise Her, the pure Mary.” Ephraim, Hymns on the Nativity, 15:23 (A.D. 370).
“Thou alone and thy Mother are in all things fair, there is no flaw in thee and no stain in thy Mother.” Ephraem, Nisibene Hymns, 27:8 (A.D. 370).
“O noble Virgin, truly you are greater than any other greatness. For who is your equal in greatness, O dwelling place of God the Word? To whom among all creatures shall I compare you, O Virgin? You are greater than them all O Covenant, clothed with purity instead of gold! You are the Ark in which is found the golden vessel containing the true manna, that is, the flesh in which divinity resides.” Athanasius, Homily of the Papyrus of Turin, 71:216 (ante AD 373).
“Mary, a Virgin not only undefiled but a Virgin whom grace has made inviolate, free of every stain of sin.” Ambrose, Sermon 22:30 (A.D. 388).
Addendum: OKay, the Council of Nicea was 325AD, so only the first two quotes count. But I say, these two quotes DO point to Mary being free of sin.
Scripture Catholic is AWESOME!!!
Hope this helps.
God Bless!