Description

Feast Day/Commemorated: July 22

Saint Mary Magdalen's Early Life and Conversion

Saint Mary Magdalen, whose name is etched into the Gospel accounts, hailed from the small Galilean city of Magdala. While her early life isn't detailed in the Gospels, Tradition portrays her as a beautiful young woman who led a sinful life until the Lord cast out seven demons from her. From that moment of healing, Saint Mary Magdalen underwent a profound transformation, dedicating herself entirely to Christ. She faithfully followed Him throughout His ministry, serving Him from her own resources alongside other pious women, and courageously remained at the foot of the Cross during His Crucifixion, even when most of His disciples fled in fear.

The First Witness to the Resurrection

Saint Mary Magdalen's unwavering devotion extended beyond Christ's death. She was present at His burial, observing Joseph and Nicodemus entomb His body. On the morning of the third day, driven by an eager desire to anoint His body, she arrived at the tomb while it was still dark. Discovering the stone rolled away and the tomb empty, she ran to inform Peter and John. Returning to the tomb in sorrow, she encountered two angels, and then the Risen Christ Himself, though she initially mistook Him for the gardener. It was only when He called her name that Saint Mary Magdalen recognized His voice, joyfully proclaiming "Rabbi!" Christ then commissioned her to be the first to announce His Resurrection to the Apostles, thereby making her the first evangelist of this most joyous news.

Later Life and Enduring Legacy

After Christ's Ascension, Holy Tradition indicates that Saint Mary Magdalen continued her apostolic mission. Filled with the conviction of the Resurrection, she traveled beyond her native lands, daring to preach in pagan Rome. There, she famously confronted Emperor Tiberias, presenting him with a red egg as a symbol of the Resurrection and proclaiming, "Christ is Risen!" Her dedicated service to the Church, enduring dangers and sharing the labors of preaching, is subtly acknowledged by Apostle Paul. She is believed to have eventually settled in Ephesus, continuing her work with Saint John the Apostle, where she peacefully reposed. Her relics were later transferred to Constantinople and then parts to various locations, cementing her veneration as a Myrrh-Bearer and Equal of the Apostles, revered for her profound love and unwavering faithfulness to the Lord who transformed her life.

About Our Icons (Print and Mounted):

Theophany Works Icons are handcrafted reproductions, made with prayer and a desire for excellence. Choose from our standard mounted option on Museum Quality Paper or you may choose to upgrade to Museum Quality Matte Canvas. Both offer a rich print with saturated coloration and are finished with our high-grade UV protection sealant offering a subtle tactile texture that gives our icons a truly authentic feel & can be cleaned with a damp cloth. Additionally, each Maple-shelled panel is prepared with a painted chamfered front edge as well as a round-over on the back edge to give a shadow box effect when hung on the wall. Our Icons come standard with a sliding key-hole slot on the back which allows for balanced hanging. These beautiful American-made reproductions will be a beloved addition to any home or parish at the fraction of the cost of a hand painted icon.

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