Podcast Summary: Catholic Saints – Episode on St. Mary Magdalene

Title: St. Mary Magdalene
Host: Augustine Institute
Release Date: July 22, 2025

Introduction

In this episode of Catholic Saints, hosted by the Augustine Institute, Taylor Kemp and Dr. Ben Akers delve into the life and significance of St. Mary Magdalene. The conversation explores her role in the Gospels, her identity, and the profound impact she has on Christian faith and practice.

Understanding St. Mary Magdalene

Dr. Ben Akers opens the discussion by expressing his admiration for St. Mary Magdalene, mentioning personal connections such as naming his daughter Marie Madeleine. He highlights the recent elevation of her commemoration from an optional memorial to a full feast day on July 22nd, emphasizing her importance within the Catholic tradition.

“Her feast day was raised from an optional memorial to a feast day. So it's full on feast day.”
— Dr. Ben Akers (04:03)

Taylor Kemp concurs, noting Mary Magdalene's widespread recognition among the faithful.

Biblical Foundations and Identity

The conversation delves into the scriptural portrayal of Mary Magdalene, primarily focusing on her appearances in the Gospels of Luke and John. Dr. Akers references Luke 7 and Luke 8, where Mary is depicted as a sinner who anoints Jesus' feet, highlighting her deep devotion and recognition of Jesus as the bearer of the Gospel.

“She's at the feet of Christ, and Martha tries to bring Jesus into a family dispute... Mary has chosen the better part.”
— Dr. Ben Akers (13:29)

Taylor Kemp adds insight into Mary Magdalene's boldness and unwavering commitment to Jesus, reflecting on her actions as an admirable model of faith.

Theories on Her Identity

Dr. Akers presents several theories regarding Mary Magdalene's identity:

1. Mary of Magdala: Named after her hometown, Magdala, located on the northwest shore of the Sea of Galilee.
2. Prostitute Interpretation: Based on a Jewish rabbinical comment in the Talmud, suggesting a euphemistic reference.
3. Mary the Great or Magnificent: Deriving from the Aramaic title meaning great.

He further explores the possibility that Mary Magdalene is the same individual as Mary of Bethany, sister of Martha and Lazarus, by analyzing her consistent portrayal at the feet of Christ in different Gospel accounts.

“Mary Magdalene is listed here as one of the people that have followed Christ...”
— Dr. Ben Akers (07:36)

Taylor Kemp introduces Bram Petrie's argument from his book Introduction to the Spiritual Life, which connects Mary Magdalene's actions to contemplative prayer, enhancing the discussion on her identity.

Mary Magdalene's Role in the Resurrection Narrative

A significant portion of the episode focuses on Mary Magdalene's pivotal role during and after the Crucifixion of Jesus. Dr. Akers narrates how Mary anoints Jesus with costly ointment, an act foreshadowing His impending Passion and Resurrection. He emphasizes her presence at the tomb on Easter morning, where she becomes the first witness to the Resurrection, earning her the title "Apostle to the Apostles."

“She's the one now running, and her feet are now blessed as the one who runs to tell the good news. And we have the beautiful title of Mary called the Apostle to the apostles...”
— Dr. Ben Akers (19:21)

Taylor Kemp reflects on Mary Magdalene as an exemplar of mission flowing from identity—highlighting her closeness to Christ and her subsequent mission to spread the Gospel.

Main Takeaways and Reflections

Towards the end of the episode, Dr. Akers outlines key lessons drawn from Mary Magdalene's life:

1. Stay Close to Christ: Emulating Mary’s dedication by remaining near Jesus through prayer, the Eucharist, and Mass.
2. Seek Forgiveness: Just as Mary was delivered from seven demons, asking for intercession for those oppressed or seeking liberation.
3. Embrace Repentance: Recognizing and accepting God’s mercy as transformative good news.

Taylor Kemp adds that Mary Magdalene serves as a powerful model for living out the Gospel, urging listeners to embody her commitment and love for Christ in their own lives.

“When we're close to Christ, we sit at his feet, we receive his life, we receive his teaching... Mary’s a great example of that.”
— Taylor Kemp (19:47)

Conclusion

The episode concludes with a heartfelt acknowledgment of Mary Magdalene's enduring legacy and her vital role in the foundation of the Christian faith. Her unwavering devotion and her role as the first witness to the Resurrection continue to inspire and guide believers in their spiritual journeys.

Notable Quotes:

• “They are our older brothers and sisters in Christ alive in Christ in heaven.”
  — Dr. Ben Akers (00:28)

• “Mary Magdalene is listed here as one of the people that have followed Christ...”
  — Dr. Ben Akers (07:36)

• “She's the one now running, and her feet are now blessed as the one who runs to tell the good news.”
  — Dr. Ben Akers (19:21)

• “Mary’s a great example of that.”
  — Taylor Kemp (19:47)

Key Themes:

• Identity and Recognition: Exploring who Mary Magdalene was and her unique place among the saints.
• Devotion and Service: Her acts of anointing Jesus and providing for His ministry demonstrate profound love and service.
• Witness to the Resurrection: Her role as the first to witness and proclaim the Resurrection underscores her importance in Christian theology.
• Intercession and Inspiration: Drawing inspiration from her life to cultivate a closer relationship with Christ and to live out the Gospel actively.

Final Thoughts

St. Mary Magdalene's life is a testament to the transformative power of God's love. Her dedication, loyalty, and pivotal role in the Resurrection narrative make her an enduring figure of inspiration for believers seeking to deepen their faith and embody the teachings of Christ.

Explore More:

To watch full video interviews and access additional resources, visit formed.org. Support the Augustan Institute's mission by becoming a Mission Circle Partner at missioncircle.org.