Feast of Saint Mary Magdalene (Homily for Monday of the 16th week in Ordinary time year II July 22 2024

Homily for Monday of the 16th week in Ordinary time year II  July  22 2024

Feast of Saint Mary Magdalene 

Pope Francis has aptly referred to St. Mary Magdalene as the Apostle to the Apostles. According to St. Luke's Gospel, she was delivered from seven demons, and in response, she demonstrated unwavering love and gratitude to God. She was among the women who accompanied Jesus as He preached the Gospel through towns and villages, and she remained with Him even at the foot of the Cross.

In today's Gospel, following the death of our Lord, Mary Magdalene visited the tomb on the first day of the week. Her profound love was rewarded as she became the first person to witness the Risen Lord. She was then entrusted with the mission of announcing Christ's resurrection to the Apostles.

We, like Mary Magdalene, are called to love God with all our heart, mind, and strength, and to love our neighbors as God loves us. This commandment is the greatest and encapsulates all the laws. Simply adhering to this commandment surpasses all burnt offerings. Our sincere love for God is the victory that will conquer the world and grant us the joy of eternal life.

May God, through the intercession of St. Mary Magdalene, grant us the grace to love Him with a sincere heart and bestow upon us eternal life through Christ our Lord. Amen.

God bless you all.