The Church today commemorates the life of Saint Mary Magdalene, the Holy Myrrh-bearer and Equal-to-the-Apostles, as well as the Virgin-martyr Markella of Chios and Martyr Theophilus the Younger.
Saint Maria hailed from the city of Magdala by Lake Genesareth (Galilee), showing unwavering dedication to Jesus Christ after he expelled seven demons from her. Grateful for His mercy, she gave up all her possessions and devoted her life to serving the Saviour alongside other women, accompanying Him and His disciples in their ministry.
Her commitment did not go unnoticed. Mary Magdalene was privileged to be among the first, alongside the Most Holy Theotokos, to witness the Resurrection of the Lord. She and other disciples were the initial witnesses to the Risen Christ on the day after the Sabbath.
Following Pentecost, she traveled to Rome, where she confronted King Tiberius and condemned Pilate for his role in the crucifixion of Jesus, leading to his removal from office. Her evangelistic efforts extended to Egypt, Asia Minor, France, and Italy, where she played a vital role in establishing the Church in Rome. In her final years, she resided in Ephesus under the care of John the Evangelist, passing away peacefully.
Upon the orders of Leo VI the Wise in 890, her holy relics were relocated to the monastery of St. Lazarus in Palestine. Saint Mary Magdalene, the Myrrhbearer and Equal-to-the-Apostles, is venerated at the Monastery of Simonos Petra in Athos, which houses a portion of her right palm.
She is also honored by the Polish Autocephalous Orthodox Church as the patron saint of the Polish Orthodox Church, with a grand church dedicated to her in the heart of Warsaw, the country’s capital.
Source: Church of Cyprus