Tuesday July 22, 2025
Saint Mary Magdalene was a close follower of Jesus. She is mentioned in the Gospels many times. Jesus healed her from seven demons. After that, she became one of His most devoted followers.
Mary Magdalene was present at many key events in Jesus’ life. She stood by Jesus during His crucifixion. She watched as He was buried. On Easter morning, she went to His tomb and found it empty. She was the first person to see the risen Jesus.
Mary Magdalene’s story shows her deep love for Jesus. She is often remembered for her loyalty and faith. Even when things were hard, she stayed close to Jesus. Her story encourages us to stay faithful, too.
Today, Mary Magdalene is honored as a saint. Many people pray to her for help and guidance. Her feast day is July 22nd. She is a model of faith and devotion for all Christians.
From Darkness to Light
Mary Magdalene’s story begins in Magdala. This town is on the western shore of the Sea of Galilee. Before meeting Jesus, she suffered from seven demons. Jesus healed her, and her life changed completely. She then became a devoted follower of Jesus.
Mary Magdalene traveled with Jesus and His Apostles. She was not alone; other women also followed Jesus. They supported Him financially with their resources. They saw His teachings and miracles. They were faithful followers of Jesus.
Mary Magdalene was present at the Crucifixion. She stayed when many others ran away. Her presence showed the important role of women in early Christianity. Women were key supporters and witnesses of Jesus’ ministry.
Mary Magdalene’s story shows her great faith. She stayed with Jesus through His hardest moments. Her example teaches us about loyalty and love for Jesus. She is a strong model for all Christians.
First Witness of the Resurrection
Mary Magdalene played a key role in the resurrection story. On the third day after Jesus’ crucifixion, she went to His tomb. She found it empty. In her grief, she saw the risen Jesus. She was the first person to see Him alive again.
This moment is called “Noli me tangere,” which means “Do not cling to me.” Jesus gave her an important job. He asked her to tell the disciples that He was alive. She became known as the “Apostle to the Apostles.”
Mary Magdalene’s faith was strong. She shared the news of Jesus’ resurrection. This is the core of the Christian faith. Her story shows the importance of faith and devotion.
Her encounter with the risen Jesus is inspiring. She teaches us to have strong faith, even in hard times. Her example helps us understand the power of meeting Jesus.
Clearing Misconceptions about Saint Mary Magdalene
Over the centuries, many have misunderstood Mary Magdalene. Some people wrongly believe she was a sinful woman or a prostitute. But the Bible does not say this. These errors come from mixing her up with other people in the Bible.
The Catholic Church now highlights her true role. Mary Magdalene was a devoted follower of Jesus. She was not a sinful woman. She is known for her strong faith and loyalty.
Recent studies support this view. Scholars have shown that Mary Magdalene was a key witness to Jesus’ resurrection. This is her true importance in Christian history.
Understanding Mary Magdalene correctly helps us appreciate her example. She is a model of faith for all Christians. Her story teaches us about true discipleship and devotion to Jesus.
The Legend of the Easter Egg
Saint Mary Magdalene is connected to the tradition of Easter eggs through a popular legend. According to this story, after Jesus’ resurrection, Mary Magdalene went to the Roman Emperor Tiberius to proclaim the good news. She greeted him with an egg, symbolizing new life, and said, “Christ is risen!”
The emperor doubted her words and said that a person rising from the dead was as unlikely as the egg in her hand turning red. Immediately, the egg turned bright red, confirming her message. This miraculous sign strengthened her testimony about Jesus’ resurrection.
This story links Saint Mary Magdalene to the tradition of Easter eggs, especially the custom of dyeing eggs red to symbolize the resurrection and new life. The red egg reminds us of Christ’s blood shed on the cross and the joy of His resurrection. Saint Mary Magdalene’s role in this legend highlights her as a key witness to the resurrection and a proclaimer of the good news.
This tradition of Easter eggs continues today in many cultures, with people decorating eggs in various colors and patterns to celebrate Easter. The connection to Saint Mary Magdalene and the red egg remains a meaningful part of this celebration, reminding us of the miracle of Jesus’ resurrection and the hope it brings to all Christians.
Mary Magdalene’s Legacy and Devotion
Saint Mary Magdalene’s legacy lives on in the Church. She is remembered as a faithful follower of Jesus. Her story has inspired many Christians throughout history. She shows us how to stay devoted to Jesus.
Her life shows the power of meeting Jesus. Once tormented by demons, she became the “Apostle to the Apostles.” She saw the risen Jesus and shared the Good News with strong faith. Her story inspires Christians to deepen their devotion and spread Jesus’ love.
Mary Magdalene’s example encourages us to live faithful Christian lives. She teaches us to stay close to Jesus and share His message. We can ask for her prayers and follow her example in our own lives. Her story reminds us of the joy and hope found in Jesus’ resurrection.
Her example teaches us about faith and loyalty. Her legacy encourages us to follow Jesus closely. She remains a powerful model for Christians today. Her story continues to inspire faith and devotion.
Mary Magdalene is honored on her feast day, July 22nd. It is a time to remember her role in Jesus’ life and resurrection. Her story is a reminder of her deep faith and love for Jesus.
Patron Saint of …
She is is venerated as a patron saint of contemplatives and women.
Daily Mass Readings
- First Reading – Song of Songs 3:1-4b: I searched for the one my heart loves at night and in the city. The watchmen found me, and soon after, I found him.
- Alternate First Reading – 2 Corinthians 5:14-17: The love of Christ compels us to live for Him, who died and was raised for us. In Christ, we become a new creation, leaving the past behind.
- Responsorial Psalm – Psalm 63: I seek you, God, with a yearning soul and a longing heart. I praise your kindness, find joy in your sanctuary, and trust in your support and protection.
- Gospel – John 20:1-2, 11-18: Mary Magdalene finds the empty tomb, speaks with angels, and then meets the risen Jesus, who instructs her to tell the disciples of his ascension. Mary announces to the disciples, “I have seen the Lord.” Mary Magdalene becomes the first witness of Jesus’ resurrection.
Homilies and Reflections
USCCB Reflection: Behold My Heart
In this USCCB video reflection for the Feast of Saint Mary Magdalene, the story of Paul McCartney finding comfort in the Sacred Heart of Jesus is used to illustrate the message of love in the Gospel. Jesus invites us to behold His heart, offering us unconditional love. Mary Magdalene exemplifies this by recognizing Jesus’ love and the signs of hope around her, even in difficult times. Her faith and encounter with the risen Christ encourage us to see the power of God’s love in our lives and to help others do the same, especially those struggling with faith or hardship.
The Earthshaking Resurrection
On the Feast of St. Mary Magdalene, Bishop Robert Barron explains that we celebrate the first witness of Christ’s rising, who declared the Resurrection to the Apostles. The Easter faith is an explosive revolution, signifying Jesus’ real and bodily Resurrection through the power of the Holy Spirit, not a mere symbol or metaphor. The claim that Jesus rose from death is not a modern fantasy but the testimony of the first witnesses. This event fulfills the ancient hope of Israel for the union of heaven and earth.
Apostle of Mercy and Witness of Resurrection
On the Feast of St. Mary Magdalene, we honor her as a powerful example of God’s mercy and grace. Scripture tells us that Jesus cast out seven demons from her, and she became a faithful follower who witnessed His crucifixion and resurrection. As the first to adore Him after His resurrection, her loyalty and love made her the “Apostle of the Apostles.” Her story reminds us that no one is beyond God’s saving grace, and we are called to share the good news of His mercy with the world.
Touching Jesus: A Lesson in Faith
In this video, Scott Hahn explains the significance of Jesus’ words to Mary Magdalene at the empty tomb in John 20:11-18. Jesus tells Mary not to touch Him, not because He doesn’t want her near, but because He wants her to understand that their relationship has transcended the physical realm. Instead, He invites Thomas to touch Him, not physically, but through faith, recognizing Him in His resurrected glory, which extends to all believers in the Holy Eucharist. This encounter teaches us to see Jesus not in nostalgia, but in the present reality of our faith.
Resources
Books and Gifts for Baptism and Confirmation
Social Media Graphics
Questions and Answers
Who is Saint Mary Magdalene?
She is a follower of Jesus. She was healed by Jesus and became one of His most devoted disciples.
Where did Saint Mary Magdalene come from?
She came from the town of Magdala. Magdala is near the Sea of Galilee.
What is Saint Mary Magdalene known for?
She is known for being the first to see the risen Jesus. She also told the disciples about His resurrection.
Did Saint Mary Magdalene stay with Jesus during the crucifixion?
Yes, she stayed with Jesus during the crucifixion. She was present at the cross.
Was Saint Mary Magdalene a sinful woman or prostitute?
No, there is no evidence in the Bible that she was a sinful woman or prostitute. This is a misconception.
What did Jesus do for Saint Mary Magdalene?
Jesus healed her from seven demons. This changed her life, and she followed Him from then on.
Why is Saint Mary Magdalene called the “Apostle to the Apostles”?
She is called the “Apostle to the Apostles” because she told the disciples about Jesus’ resurrection.
How can Saint Mary Magdalene inspire us today?
She inspires us with her faith and devotion. She teaches us to stay loyal to Jesus and share His message.
What is the connection between Saint Mary Magdalene and Easter eggs?
According to a legend, she used an egg to proclaim Jesus’ resurrection to the Roman Emperor. The egg turned red to confirm her message, symbolizing new life and the joy of the resurrection.
What date is the Feast of Saint Mary Magdalene?
It is observed annually on July 22.
What are the Mass readings for the Feast of Saint Mary Magdalene?
The Mass readings for Tuesday July 22, 2025 are:
First Reading – Song of Songs 3:1-4b: The Bride’s Quest
Alternate First Reading – 2 Corinthians 5:14-17: A New Creation
Responsorial Psalm – Psalm 63: My Soul Thirsts for God
Gospel – John 20:1-2, 11-18: Mary Magdalene’s Encounter with the Risen Jesus
Conclusion
Saint Mary Magdalene was a devoted follower of Jesus. She came from the town of Magdala near the Sea of Galilee. Jesus healed her from seven demons, and her life changed completely. She became one of His most faithful disciples.
Mary Magdalene traveled with Jesus and His Apostles. She supported Him and witnessed many of His teachings and miracles. She was present at the crucifixion, staying close to Jesus when others had left. Her loyalty and faithfulness were strong and unwavering.
The most important moment in her life was witnessing the resurrection. She was the first to see the risen Jesus. He asked her to tell the disciples the good news. Because of this, she is called the “Apostle to the Apostles.”
Mary Magdalene is remembered for her deep faith and dedication. Her story teaches us about loyalty, courage, and the importance of sharing Jesus’ message. Her example inspires us to stay faithful and devoted to Jesus.
Your Turn
Learn more about Saint Mary Magdalene. Her story is full of faith and loyalty. Reflect on her example and how it can inspire your own life. Share your thoughts and experiences in the comment section. Let’s learn from Saint Mary Magdalene together and grow in our faith.
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