Mary of Magdala

Mary of Magdala

She is mentioned in Matt. 27, 28; Mark 15, 16;
Luke 23, 24; John 19, 20, Luke 8:2.

It was to a woman that the risen Christ first appeared! How awesome. That's a story that needs to be told. But how could I do that? There is very little in scripture about her. She is surrounded by controversy: Was she a prostitute? Was she the one that washed Jesus' feet? I didn't think so, but I'm not a theologian. That is the reason I call the piece Mary of Magdala instead of Magdalene, because of the connotation associated with that name.

So I knew what was important about her story, even with the controversy. There wasn't any question she had been a follower of Christ. So, I decided to use her character to tell the Passion Week story, and more importantly, to challenge people to acknowledge the risen Christ in their lives!

Mary of Magdala

Often I am asked if I have a favorite character. Frankly, I love them all, for very different reasons. However, recently I admitted there was one that I struggled with – Mary of Magdala. Every time I am scheduled to portray her, I get especially nervous. Sometimes I am almost terrified. It seems such an overwhelming responsibility to try and express the events of Passion Week, especially the crucifixion. I feel totally inadequate. But each time, after I have portrayed her, and I am coming back down the aisle, and ask people "Have you seen the risen Lord? Have you stood at the foot of the cross and recognized the magnitude of the gift given you by God?" – that is when I realize what a powerful story she has to tell.

Photos by Amy Jones Photography