FEAST OF MARY MAGDALENE

July 22, 2025 Feast of Mary Magdalene Jn 20:1-2, 11-18 The story of Mary Magdalene at the empty tomb is one of the most intimate and personal encounters with the Risen Christ in all of Scripture. In today’s gospel, we find her weeping outside the tomb, grieving the loss of not only her Lord but also the meaning and hope she had found in Him. Her tears are not just about death—they are tears of confusion, loss, and love. She remained, even when others went away. And it was in her staying, her longing, and her faithful love that Jesus met her. What is most beautiful is that the Risen Lord chose to reveal Himself first to someone the world might have dismissed. Mary Magdalene was not a high priest, not a scholar, not a public leader—but a woman once healed, now fully devoted. This tells us that Jesus is not bound by status or power, but moves toward the heart that stays, searches, and loves. When He calls her by name—“Mary”—her eyes are opened. The Risen Christ meets us personally, in the language of love and recognition. He does not scold her tears but honors them by showing her the truth. In moments when we are overwhelmed by sorrow, confusion, or silence, Mary Magdalene reminds us to stay by the tomb a little longer. Resurrection often comes to those who choose not to run away from the pain. Her story assures us that Jesus comes not only in glory but in the garden of our grief. And when He calls us by name, our despair turns into mission—as it did for Mary, the first witness of the Resurrection. From her tears came a testimony. From her mourning came a message: “I have seen the Lord.” Blessings Fr. Jhack