St. Mary Magdalene

 

Mary Magdalene is one of the greatest and well knows saints of the Bible. She lived during the time of Christ and was one of his closest friends. She is mentioned over a dozen times in the Gospels.

She is usually thought of as a prostitute but this is not supported by the scriptures. However the Gospels do confirm she was a great sinner before Christ, and He had to cast seven demons out of her when he met her.

Mary is an incredible example of someone who was saved by the graces of God. It is believed that Mary traveled with Jesus during His public ministry and served Him and his Disciples. Mary likely witnessed the crucifixion and was present when Jesus rose from the dead. She was the first person to see Him resurrected.

Several years after Jesus’ death it is said many Christians were put into boats and set adrift without sails or oars. The boats landed in southern France, where Mary Magdalene spent the rest of her life in solitude living in a cave.

Her feast day is July 22. She is the patron of converts, repentant sinners, sexual temptation and women.