💐 St Mary Magdalene: A Personal Journey into the Mystery of Redemption
Introduction: A Question at the Heart of the Cross
Why a sacrifice?
Why did Jesus have to die such a brutal death? Why couldn’t the Son of God teach, perform miracles, proclaim salvation, and then ascend to Heaven in glory?
This question followed me through my early years as a Catholic convert. It wasn’t doubt so much as wonder. I believed in the love of Christ, but I didn’t yet grasp the necessity of the Cross. That understanding came slowly, much like it did for St Mary Magdalene, whose journey from brokenness to bold discipleship continues to inspire believers across the world.
Who Was St Mary Magdalene?
St Mary Magdalene was no ordinary follower of Jesus. She is known as the Apostle of the Apostles, the first to witness the Resurrection, and the first to announce it to the disciples. She stood by Jesus in His final moments at the foot of the Cross, one of the few who did not abandon Him.
According to Mark 16:
"When the Sabbath was over, Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James, and Salome bought spices so that they might go to anoint Jesus’ body. Very early on the first day of the week, just after sunrise, they were on their way to the tomb... but when they looked up, they saw that the huge stone had been rolled away."
She is honored as the Patron Saint of Penitents and Perfumers, and her feast day is celebrated on July 22.
A Personal Conversion: Learning Through Story
As a teenager, I entered the Catholic Church seeking the truth. One question stayed with me for years: Why the blood? Why the suffering?
Then, nearly two decades later, something unexpected happened. I was sitting in a theater with my children, watching The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe. Watching Aslan sacrifice himself for Edmund, something clicked. C.S. Lewis illustrated a divine truth: in the face of evil, love steps in and offers itself, just as Jesus did.
St Mary Magdalene understood this firsthand. She had received great mercy and, in response, gave great love. Some traditions identify her as the woman who anointed Jesus’ feet with perfume and tears. Regardless of the tradition, Scripture shows us that she followed Him not just in the light but into the darkness of Golgotha.
The Cross and the Tomb
Justice demands accountability for sin, but love provides a way back home. That way was the Cross. Jesus, fully God and fully man, bore the weight of sin so we could receive the inheritance of eternal life.
St Mary Magdalene did not run from this mystery. She stood by it. She wept at the tomb. And because of her faithful love, she was the first to witness the risen Christ.
He called her by name. "Mary."
Apostle of the Apostles
In John 20, Jesus tells her:
"Go to my brothers and tell them, ‘I am ascending to my Father and your Father, to my God and your God.’"
With these words, Mary Magdalene became the first evangelist of the Resurrection. She is called the Apostle of the Apostles because she was entrusted with the most essential message in human history.
What We Can Learn from Her Life
St Mary Magdalene teaches us that:
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No sin is greater than God's mercy.
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True faith remains even in darkness.
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Devotion unlocks revelation.
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God often chooses the humble to proclaim His glory.
How to Honor St Mary Magdalene
Here are a few meaningful ways to honor her today:
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Reflect on Mark 16 or John 20 during your prayer time.
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Display a sacred image of St Mary Magdalene in your home.
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Pray the Litany of St Mary Magdalene.
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Wear or gift a medal or rosary in her honor.
You can find beautiful, handcrafted devotional items at Guadalupe Gifts that reflect the strength and spirit of women like St Mary Magdalene.
From Mourner to Messenger
St Mary Magdalene reminds us that God calls each of us by name. Before she was the first witness of the Resurrection, she was simply someone who had been healed, forgiven, and transformed. Her life is proof that God's mercy restores, elevates, and sends us forth with purpose.
Like her, may we draw close to the Cross, stay with Jesus through every season, and go forth boldly to proclaim, "I have seen the Lord."
Learn More About St Mary Magdalene
Frequently Asked Questions about St Mary Magdalene
Who was St Mary Magdalene in the Bible?
She was a faithful follower of Jesus, present at the Crucifixion, and the first to witness His Resurrection. Jesus sent her to proclaim the news to the apostles.
What is St Mary Magdalene, the patron saint of?
She is the Patron Saint of Penitents and Perfumers, celebrated on July 2 each year.
Where is St Mary Magdalene mentioned in the Bible?
You can find her in Mark 16, John 19 and 20, Luke 8:2, and other Gospel passages where she plays a significant role in the Passion and Resurrection of Christ.
Was Mary Magdalene the sinful woman in Luke’s Gospel?
In Western tradition, many identify her with the woman who anointed Jesus’ feet, though this is not explicitly stated in Scripture. Eastern Christianity views them as separate. Either way, her devotion and transformation are apparent.
How can I grow closer to Chris? What happened to Mary Magdalen?
Through prayer, repentance, devotion to the Eucharist, and staying spiritually close to Jesus, especially in times of trial.
Where can I find Catholic gifts related to St Mary Magdalene?
Visit Guadalupe Gifts to explore meaningful Catholic medals, art, and rosaries inspired by powerful saints, such as St. Mary Magdalene.
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