Known as “the penitent,” Mary was given the name ‘Magdalene’ because, though a Jewish girl, she lived in a Gentile town called Magdale, in northern Galilee, and her culture and manners were those of a Gentile.

Her Contribution To The Church

Mary Magdalene was well known as a sinner when she first met Jesus. Beautiful and very proud, after she met Jesus she felt great sorrow for her sinful life. When Jesus went to dinner at the home of a rich man named Simon, Mary came and wept at his feet. Then with her long beautiful hair, she wiped his feet dry and anointed them with expensive perfume. When he kindly told her that her sins had been forgiven and her faith had saved her, Mary was forever changed. From that point on, she served Jesus and his apostles, and was present at Christ’s crucifixion.

On Easter morning, Mary went to anoint the body of Jesus with spices. Not finding his body, she began to cry. A moment later, the risen Jesus appeared and spoke her name. Christ chose to first appear to a repentant sinner.

How She Can Help You

We are all sinners, but Mary Magdalene was an example that Jesus loves us unconditionally and without judgment. Remember Mary Magdalene when you have trouble believing in the grace, forgiveness and mercy of God.