22nd July 2024Rhiannon Watts-Robinson

Today the Catholic Church celebrates the Feast Day of Saint Mary Magdalene, a woman whose life exemplifies profound conversion, unwavering faith, and devoted love for Jesus Christ. Through her witness, Saint Mary Magdalene invites us to encounter the transformative power of God’s mercy and to follow Christ with courage and devotion.

Saint Mary Magdalene holds a special place in Christian tradition as a beloved disciple of Jesus Christ. She is often remembered for her pivotal role in the Gospel narratives, where she witnessed Jesus’ ministry, accompanied Him during His Passion, and became the first witness to His Resurrection. According to the Gospels, Mary Magdalene was healed by Jesus from possession by seven demons (Luke 8:2), an experience that marked the beginning of her profound conversion and dedication to following Christ. She is also identified as the woman who anointed Jesus’ feet with costly perfume and wiped them with her hair, an act of deep love and repentance (Luke 7:36-50).

Saint Mary Magdalene’s life demonstrates the transformative power of encountering Christ. Her journey from darkness to discipleship exemplifies the mercy and forgiveness that Jesus offers to all who seek Him with sincere hearts. Pope Saint Gregory the Great described her as the “Apostle to the Apostles”, highlighting her unique role as the first witness to the Resurrection and her mission to proclaim the Good News to the apostles.

Throughout history, Saint Mary Magdalene has been revered as a patroness of penitent sinners, contemplatives and women seeking to deepen their relationship with Christ. Many Catholic communities honour her with special devotions, prayers and pilgrimages, particularly at places associated with her life and ministry.

Her feast day invites us to:

  • Attend Mass: Participate in the liturgical celebrations of Saint Mary Magdalene’s feast day, reflecting on her life and example of discipleship
  • Pray the Rosary: Meditate on the mysteries of Christ’s life through the lens of Saint Mary Magdalene’s devotion and witness
  • Seek Her Intercession: Ask Saint Mary Magdalene to pray for us, that we may grow in faith, experience God’s mercy and be faithful witnesses to the Gospel in our daily lives.

Saint Mary Magdalene’s feast day invites us to reflect on her profound journey of faith, conversation, and discipleship. Her life challenges us to embrace God’s mercy, follow Christ with unwavering devotion, and proclaim His Resurrection joyfully to other. May Saint Mary Magdalene intercede for us, that we may be inspired by her example of faith and love for Jesus Christ. Let us strive to emulate her courage, humility and commitment to the Gospel, seeking to encounter Christ anew and to live as His faithful disciples in the world today.