July 22 marked the feast day of St. Mary Magdalene. Although her birth and death dates are unknown, through scripture we are able to know she was present throughout Jesus’ ministry. She is often referenced throughout the gospels, traveling with Christ and the apostles. Mary Magdalene was undoubtedly a great sinner when she met Jesus. Upon meeting her, Christ cast out her demons and from then on she was a faithful disciple of Jesus. She is sometimes referred to as “the Apostle to the Apostles.” Mary was present at the crucifixion and was the first person to encounter Jesus after His resurrection. One message that can be taken from the life of Mary Magdalene is that no one is too great of a sinner to be saved. We are capable of letting the Lord reshape our lives and center our present and future around Him. 

Mary Magdalene is the patron saint of contemplative life, penitent sinners, perfume makers, hairstylists, sexual temptation, and converts.