The Virgin Mary
"Mary is a model of holiness."
Catechism of the Catholic Church no. 2030
"Behold, I am the handmaid of the Lord.
May it be done to me according to your word."
—Luke 1:38
Mary as a young Jewish girl was called by God to be the mother of Jesus. Mary's "yes" changed all the world. 
For this reason she is considered the Mother of the Church, and holds a special place of honor in the lives of believers. Mary sets an example of faithful, obedience, and love for all.
Through faith-based programs coordinated by the National Catholic Committee for Girl Scouts and Camp Fire, young people are offered opportunities to learn about the role of Mary in the life of Jesus, and in the life of the church, and to grow in their devotion to the Blessed Mother.
There are many Marian resources available, both in literature and online, that can be used while working on the religious recognition programs, especially for Mary, the First Disciple. Resources and tools that promote and educate on the Virgin Mary, can be accessed by clicking on the links below.
- Assumption of Mary
- Assumption of Mary, Catechism of the Catholic Church (Paragraph 963-75)
- Catholic Forum (information on Mary as a patron saint)
- Compassion (a site by the Passionists on Mary)
- Immaculate Conception, Catechism of the Catholic Church (Paragraph 484-90)
- The Luminous Mysteries, Catholic Update, St. Anthony Messenger Press
- Marianland.com (books, videos, general information on Mary)
- The Marian Library at the University of Dayton