Hey there,
What’s the first thing you think of when you hear the name Mary Magdalene? Chances are it may not be accurate.
That’s thanks to Catholics in the Middle Ages who spread all kinds of inaccuracies about her. Most notably that she was a prostitute before becoming a follower of Jesus.
Though there’s no Biblical evidence of that … she was a sinner. Jesus cast out 7 demons from her. And then she became one of Jesus’ trusted apostles.
Even in current times the falsehoods continue thanks to Dan Brown’s hit The Da Vinci Code.
One thing most of us understand correctly is that Mary Magdalene is the ultimate role model of forgiveness. She reminds us that regardless of our sins, we have a forgiving Lord.
This week’s issue of Genuflect examines the truth about Mary Magdalene. We bust myths about her life and debunk The Da Vinci Code; we look at what we know about Mary based on archaeological finds; why she has a Feast day; how to celebrate her with kids; and a prayer for Mary Magdalene’s intercession.
Keep Believing-
Katy Barrilleaux
Founding Editor, Genuflect
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Patron Saint of Women
Here’s a nice overview of Mary Magdalene, what she’s the patron saint of, her experiences with Jesus, and the Christian tradition of her involvement in the miracle that gave us dyed eggs at Easter.
St. Mary Magdalene, Patron Saint of Women | Learn Religions
Was Mary Magdalene a Prostitute?
We know that Jesus cast out 7 demons from Mary Magdalene. But we also hear of her as a repentant sinner … and even a former prostitute. But is that reputation warranted? It turns out this developed in the Middle Ages. Here’s the truth about what we know from Scriptures.
Was Mary Magdalene a Prostitute? | Aleteia
Busting Rumors of Mary Magdalene
The Da Vinci Code book was published in 2003 and the popular movie of the same name in 2006. The story claims that Mary Magdalene was the wife of Jesus, the mother of his child, and the true “ark of the covenant” since she carried his bloodline. Though you probably recognize it for the fiction that it is, Amy Welborn looks at these claims and the evidence, or lack thereof, supporting them.
There’s Something About Mary | Busted Halo
Archaeological Evidence of Mary Magdalene
Though we don’t know a lot about Mary Magdalene from Scriptures, we have learned more about her from archaeological research in her hometown, Magdala. Here’s what you may not know about this Apostle.
Mary Magdalene´s Identity is Revealed Through Archaeological Finds at Magdala´s Site | Catholic Mom
The Feast of Mary Magdalene
Every year we celebrate Saint Mary Magdalene on July 22nd. It was always a Memorial, but in 2016 Pope Francis elevated it to a Feast day. This was a big deal … here’s why.
The Feast of St. Mary Magdalene: Apostle of the Apostles | Catholic Stand
Francis Reflects on Mary Magdalene
Pope Francis explains the role of Mary Magdalene in witnessing Jesus’ resurrection following his devastating death. And why she is the Apostle of hope.
Pope Points to Mary Magdalene as an Apostle of Hope | Catholic News Agency
Celebrating Mary Magdalene With Kids
Mary Magdalene was present during two important events of Jesus’ life … his crucifixion and his resurrection. She is known as the Apostle of the Apostles. So it’s no surprise Pope Francis has given her a Feast Day. Here are some ideas for celebrating this Saint with your kids.
St. Mary Magdalene (Resources For Kids) | Catholic Icing
Prayer to St. Mary Magdalene
Here is a prayer for the intercession of Saint Mary Magdalene for eternal life.
Prayer to St. Mary Magdalen | EWTN
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