Feast of St. Mary Magdalene
First, it’s important to note that today is a feast! In 2016, Pope Francis elevated the memorial of Mary Magdalene to a feast day, putting her on a more equal footing with the other apostles. She was, after all, the “apostle to the apostles” – the one to whom Jesus entrusted the news of resurrection and the one sent to tell the other apostles.
But more importantly, we reflect today on Mary’s love for Jesus. It makes her want to be close to Jesus, to return to the tomb and to dare peering in. Note that, in order to encounter the Risen one – she has to “turn around” – to stop peering into the place of death and behold the Light. This has been the story of Mary’s life – turning from whatever her demons were and allowing Jesus to heal her and then to call her forth. This is also the story of our lives – also in need of turning to the Lord when we are drawn to what isn’t life-giving. Mary hears Jesus call her name – and in that, she recognizes him. Earlier in the-is Gospel Jesus insisted that those who belong to him “his sheep” – know his voice. Mary demonstrates her belonging. When we hear our name called, and see the Lord alive in our lives – when we see and experience the action of grace – we too are called to tell the good news.
—Sr. Laura Leming, FMI