Saint Mary Magdalene

Mary Magdalene came from Magdala, a fishing town on the western shore of the Sea of Galilee. The Gospels identify her as a disciple of Jesus from whom seven demons had gone out, and she appears among the women who supported Jesus’ ministry and remained near him at the Crucifixion. Unlike later legends, the New Testament presents her primarily as a healed, faithful disciple.

In John 20, Mary Magdalene becomes the first witness to the risen Christ and is sent to announce the Resurrection to the apostles. For this reason, she has long been called “apostle to the apostles,” and Pope Francis raised her liturgical celebration to a feast in 2016. Her feast proclaims the dignity of discipleship, the power of mercy, and the mission entrusted to those who seek Christ with love.

Prayer: Saint Mary Magdalene, apostle to the apostles, help us recognize the risen Lord and proclaim him with joy. Amen.