The Feast of Saint Mary Magdalene: Apostle to the Apostles
Introduction
The Feast of Saint Mary Magdalene, observed on July 22nd, holds a venerable place within the liturgical calendar of the Holy Catholic Church. Known as the "Apostle to the Apostles," Saint Mary Magdalene's intimate encounter with the Risen Christ and her subsequent role in the nascent Christian community secure her as a pivotal figure in Christian tradition. This feast day prompts the faithful to meditate upon themes of penitence, redemption, and the transformative love of Our Lord.
Who Was Saint Mary Magdalene?
Saint Mary Magdalene, mentioned in the Holy Gospels, was among the women who followed Jesus Christ, ministering unto Him of their substance. She is identified as the woman from whom Jesus cast out seven demons (Luke 8:2), symbolizing her complete deliverance and subsequent unwavering dedication to her Savior. Contrary to certain misconceptions, Holy Scripture does not identify her as a prostitute; this misinterpretation arises from the conflation of her with other women mentioned in the Gospels.
Witness to the Crucifixion and Resurrection
Saint Mary Magdalene's profound devotion to Jesus Christ is particularly evident in the Passion narratives. She stood by the Cross of Jesus, witnessing His agony and death (John 19:25). Her presence during these harrowing moments underscores her steadfast faith and loyalty.
The Gospels further recount that Saint Mary Magdalene was the first to encounter the Risen Christ. Early on that first Easter morning, she visited the tomb and found it empty. In her sorrow, she encountered a figure she initially mistook for the gardener. Upon hearing her name, "Mary," she recognized Him as the Risen Lord (John 20:11-18). This momentous event affirms her unique role as the first witness to the Resurrection, the cornerstone of Christian faith.
Apostle to the Apostles
Our Lord's appearance to Saint Mary Magdalene and His command to her to "go to my brethren, and say to them" (John 20:17) established her as the "Apostle to the Apostles." She delivered the joyous news of the Resurrection to the disciples, marking her as a key figure in the proclamation of the Gospel. This title, reaffirmed by His Holiness Pope Francis in 2016, acknowledges her essential contribution to the early Church.
Celebrating the Feast
The Feast of Saint Mary Magdalene provides an occasion for the faithful to honor her memory and contemplate her exemplary faith. The liturgical texts for her feast day emphasize her role as a witness to the Resurrection and her profound love for Christ. The Collect for the feast day is as follows:
"O God, whose Only Begotten Son entrusted Mary Magdalene before all others with announcing the great joy of the Resurrection, grant, we pray, that through her intercession and example, we may proclaim the living Christ and come to see Him reigning in your glory."
Lessons from Saint Mary Magdalene
Saint Mary Magdalene's life imparts several key lessons for the faithful:
- Repentance and Redemption: Her transformation from a life of affliction to a devoted follower of Christ illustrates the boundless mercy and grace of God.
- Faithful Witness: Her unwavering presence at the Crucifixion and her encounter with the Risen Lord exemplify deep faith and steadfast devotion.
- Proclamation of the Gospel: As the first to announce the Resurrection, she serves as a model for evangelization, encouraging all Christians to share the Good News.
- Role of Women in the Church: Her recognition as the "Apostle to the Apostles" highlights the significant contributions of women in the early Church and continues to inspire their vital role today.
Conclusion
The Feast of Saint Mary Magdalene stands as a profound reminder of the transformative power of Christ's love. As the Apostle to the Apostles, her witness to the Resurrection continues to inspire the faithful to live their calling with courage, faith, and unwavering devotion to Christ. Celebrating her feast invites us to reflect upon our own encounters with the Risen Lord and to renew our commitment to proclaiming His message of hope and redemption to the world.