Saint Mary Magdalene
Saint Mary Magdalene
The Feast of Saint Mary Magdalene, celebrated on July 22nd, honors the woman whom Jesus freed from seven demons and who became one of his most devoted followers. In 2016, Pope Francis elevated her memorial to a feast, calling her the "Apostle of the Apostles."
The Woman Transformed
Luke's Gospel introduces Mary Magdalene as one from whom Jesus cast out seven demons:
"Soon afterwards, he went about through cities and villages, preaching and bringing the good news of God’s Kingdom. With him were the twelve, and certain women who had been healed of evil spirits and infirmities: Mary who was called Magdalene, from wh…" — Luke 8:1-2
Whatever torment she suffered—whether physical, spiritual, or psychological—Jesus set her completely free. Her gratitude and love knew no bounds.
Faithful Disciple
Mary Magdalene was among the women who supported Jesus' ministry and traveled with him. When the male disciples fled at the crucifixion, she remained:
"But standing by Jesus’ cross were his mother, his mother’s sister, Mary the wife of Clopas, and Mary Magdalene." — John 19:25
She watched him die. She saw where he was buried. She returned to anoint his body.
First Witness of the Resurrection
On Easter morning, Mary Magdalene came to the tomb and found it empty. She wept, thinking the body had been stolen. Then Jesus appeared to her:
"Jesus said to her, 'Mary.' She turned and said to him, 'Rabboni!' which is to say, 'Teacher!'" — John 20:16
Jesus then commissioned her: "Go to my brothers and say to them, 'I am ascending to my Father and your Father, to my God and your God.'"
Mary Magdalene became the first witness of the Resurrection and the first to proclaim the Easter message.
Apostle of the Apostles
Saint Thomas Aquinas gave Mary Magdalene the title Apostola Apostolorum—"Apostle of the Apostles"—because she announced the Resurrection to the Twelve.
Her story speaks to all who feel bound by sin, addiction, mental illness, or despair. The same Jesus who freed her can free anyone.
A Model of Love
Mary Magdalene's love for Christ is marked by:
- Gratitude for her deliverance
- Faithfulness in following him
- Courage to stand at the Cross
- Persistence in seeking him at the tomb
- Joy in being found by him