Memorial of St. Mary Magdalene, Apostle to the Apostles

Mary Magdalene, a close friend and disciple of Jesus, was actually mistaken to be a prostitute. But thanks to biblical scholars, they have been trying to correct her reputation.

In the New Testament, biblical information truly reveals Mary Magdalene to be one of the most important disciples, constantly following and supporting Jesus during his public ministry. Mary Magdalene is also a faithful witness. For example, think of the episodes of the Passion & Resurrection: Both have Mary Magdalene in them! During the Passion, Mary Magdalene watched Jesus go through his pain and suffering, and was mentioned as a witness to the Crucifixion. Further, in John’s Gospel she is commissioned by the risen Jesus to announce the good news of His Resurrection, especially to His disciples. Therefore, Mary Magdalene becomes the first evangelist and proclaimer of the risen Lord.

The account from John’s Gospel is actually the Gospel for her feast day, and it helps to emphasize and illuminate all the readings and prayers on that day to help show her role as a faithful and true disciple. The story from John proves to us that though human, we too can see Christ around us on a daily basis. With this in mind, may we strive to be like Mary Magdalene even though sin is always with us.

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