Mary of Magdala

Just last week, July 22, 2015, was the feast day of Mary Magdalene. The Call to Action chapter in La Fayette, California took the opportunity to gather, prayer, and celebrate. The day began with a liturgy designed to acknowledge and honor the woman called Mary of Magdala: who she was and all she offers us today. Following Mass, all were invited to a breakfast for conversation and fellowship.

The celebration of this feast was a collaboration between Christ the King and St. Perpetua parish communities. This is the 17th year for this this annual event, and over 200 people from several parishes were in attendance. The Eucharistic liturgy celebrating Mary Magdalene began with the following opening prayer. Perhaps we can pray it together and invite feminine wisdom and strength to surround us not just once a year, but every day:

Open our hearts to receive the wisdom and courage shown to us through the example of Mary of Magdala, Apostle to the Apostles. May her faith and belief in the teachings of Jesus be an example to us and help us to discern how to overcome adversity, fear, and sexism.

Like Mary of Magdala, may we become witnesses to Christ’s compassion, showing others how to resolve conflict through inner strength, trust, love, intelligence, and bold leadership. We ask this in his name and in his Spirit, Jesus the Christ.