St. Mary Magdalene (Feast Day July 22)

First Century

Mary Magdalene, or Mary of Magdala, was a friend and follower of Jesus. The Gospel of Luke tells us that Jesus cast out “seven demons” from her, and, throughout the Gospel, we hear how she was present with Jesus and the Twelve Apostles. She stood next to Mary, the Mother of Jesus, at the foot of the cross. Mary Magdalene was the first person to whom Jesus appeared after he was resurrected. She is sometimes called the “Apostle to the Apostles” because she was sent to tell the other apostles the good news of Christ’s resurrection. She is the patron saint of many things, including contemplative life, penitent sinners, perfumeries, and women. 

·      Why is Easter the most important holiday we celebrate as Christians?

·      What is Mary Magdalene’s reaction when Jesus appears? What would yours be if you were in her shoes?

·      Discuss the range of emotions Jesus’ followers must have felt on Holy Saturday vs. Easter Sunday.

·      Mary Magdalene stood by the Mother of Jesus at the foot of the cross. Share a time when you helped a friend through a difficult time.

Painted Rocks

The moment the stone rolled away, Mary and the others were filled with hope. Take some time today to share a message of hope with others. Gather some smooth rocks and paint an inspirational message or something cheerful on each one. Use acrylic paint or paint pens (the finer point pens make writing easier). Paint only one side of the rock. Once dry, parents can seal it with a spray-on sealer or mod podge. Leave the rocks in a visible public place. Here are some ideas for inspirational messages:

•               Draw a smiley face.

•               Quote a Scripture verse that shares the message of eternal life in Christ.

•               Write an Easter message such as “Alleluia!” or “He is Risen!”

•               Use a quote from Unleash the Gospel https://www.unleashthegospel.org/the-letter/.

•               Quote Pope Francis from his Apostolic Exhortation, Joy of the Gospel: “Jesus Christ loves you; he gave his life to save you; and now he is living at your side every day to enlighten, strengthen and free you.”   

•               Write a short message like “Jesus saves,” “Hope in Christ,” or “Believe in God.”

•               Draw a fun picture to make someone smile!

Egg and Sausage Casserole

Mary Magdalene ran to the tomb of Christ early in the morning. Enjoy this breakfast dish on Easter morning!

2 ½ cups of Rice Krispies

1 pound of ground sausage (Italian or Turkey)

1 small onion

1 cup cooked rice (brown or white)

2 cups sharp cheddar cheese

6 eggs

2 cans Cream of Mushroom soup (can use Cream of Chicken)

¼ cup milk

Preheat oven to 350 F. Grease a 9x13 pan (or use cooking spray). Cover the baking dish with the Rice Krispies. Brown the sausage and drain. Chop the onions. Spread the sausage and onions over the Rice Krispies. Cover with the cooked rice. Spread cheese over the rice. Combine eggs, soup, and milk. Stir well and spread over the cheese. For garnish, sprinkle with additional Rice Krispies. Bake for 50 minutes. 

Lectio Divina

Lectio Divina is Latin for “divine reading.” It is a way to meditate on Sacred Scripture. It involves reading a passage of Scripture a few times and letting God speak to your heart. Have someone slowly read the passage below three times with pauses in between. After the first reading, let the words sink in. After the second reading, focus on a word or phrase that strikes you. After the third reading, pray about what God is asking of you today. Invite everyone to share what they experienced during prayer. You can use this prayer formula with any Scripture passage.

Psalm 118:1-2, 16-17, 22-23  

Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good,

for his mercy endures forever.

 Let Israel say,

“His mercy endures forever.”

“The right hand of the LORD has struck with power;

the right hand of the LORD is exalted.

I shall not die, but live,

And declare the works of the LORD.”

The stone which the builders rejected

has become the cornerstone.

By the LORD has this been done;

it is wonderful in our eyes.

At the beginning of Mass, the priest sprinkles the congregation with holy water. What sacrament does this sprinkling rite help us to recall?

In the time of Christ, the first Christians would greet one another saying, “Christ is risen,” and the response was, “He has risen indeed.” Greet your family members with these phrases for a whole week.

Easter is the second biggest candy-selling holiday!  What do you think is the first?