The First to See | Apostola Apostolorum | Catholic Daily Readings and Reflection | July 22, 2025

Catholic Daily Readings and Reflection for Tuesday, July 22, 2025 - Feast of Saint Mary Magdalene

Discover why Jesus chose Mary Magdalene as the first witness of His resurrection in today's Catholic feast day readings. This reflection explores the profound devotion that brought her to the tomb while others stayed away and earned her the title "Apostle to the Apostles."

The reading from Song of Songs captures Mary Magdalene's heart - the persistent seeking of one whose love refuses to give up even in darkness. Catholic tradition honors her as the model of contemplative devotion whose faithfulness in small acts prepared her for the greatest moment of recognition in Christian history.

John's Gospel reveals the intimate encounter where Jesus calls Mary by name in the garden, transforming her grief into joy and commissioning her as the first evangelist of the resurrection. The psalm response expresses the deep spiritual thirst that characterized her relationship with Christ.

This Catholic feast day reflection examines why God chooses to reveal Himself to faithful hearts over important positions, how Mary Magdalene became the patron saint of contemplatives and preachers, and what her example teaches about recognizing Jesus's voice when He calls our name.

Perfect for Catholics seeking deeper devotion to Christ, Christians learning about contemplative spirituality, anyone struggling through seasons of spiritual darkness, or those studying the role of women in early Christianity according to Catholic teaching.

Discover how Mary Magdalene's transformation from one possessed by demons to the first witness of resurrection demonstrates God's power to use anyone whose heart seeks Him with persistent love.

📖 Readings
Song of Songs 3:1-4b
Psalm 63:2, 3-4, 5-6, 8-9
John 20:1-2, 11-18

⏱️ Timeline
00:00 Introduction
00:15 Reading I - Song of Songs 3:1-4b
00:40 Psalm Response - Psalm 63:2,3-4,5-6,8-9
05:04 Gospel - John 20:1-2,11-18
06:32 Reflection

Perfect for Catholics celebrating Saint Mary Magdalene's feast day, Christians seeking deeper contemplative spirituality, anyone learning about women's roles in early Church, or those studying Catholic teaching on devotion and recognition of Christ's presence.

🎧 Prefer to listen on the go?
The Christus Dominus Daily Bread podcast is now available:

Video Podcast:
Spotify → https://open.spotify.com/show/7H4YZ5ZIq4rVVF3670Av3t
YouTube → https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLTPJP7WEcCSTIO2N4N_AoIsxmzIYRYiSt

Audio Podcast:
Apple Podcasts → https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/christus-dominus-daily-bread/id1826298886

#CatholicDailyReadings #SaintMaryMagdalene #ApostleToApostles #CatholicMass #ResurrectionWitness #ContemplativeLife