Mary Magdalene, Saint

( A disciple of Jesus, she was from the city of Magdala in Judea, hence the surname Magdalene. She was the woman Jesus delivered from evil spirits. Mary was among the women who accompanied and supported Jesus and the apostles. She was present at the crucifixion. Mary was also the first to witness the resurrection, which Jesus told her to announce to his disciples. Some traditions identify her with Mary of Bethany. Since she witnessed the resurrection, she has been called “equal to the Apostles.” Bernard of Clairvaux called her the “apostle to the Apostles.” Later tradition identified Mary Magdalene with Mary the Sinner, the penitent prostitute who anointed Jesus' feet. Mary Magdalene is commemorated in the Episcopal calendar of the church year on July 22.