General presentation of Saint Mary Magdalene
Saint Mary Magdalene is one of the most important figures of the New Testament, mentioned in the Gospels as a faithful disciple of Jesus Christ. She is often identified as a repentant sinner, but this image is subject to theological debate. Mary Magdalene is especially known for being present at Jesus' crucifixion and for being the first to see the risen Christ, thus becoming "the apostle to the apostles" according to Saint Thomas Aquinas. She is celebrated on July 22 and is considered the patron saint of repentant sinners, women, and perfumers.
Correspondence table of Saint Mary Magdalene
| Role | Disciple of Jesus, witness of the Resurrection |
| Patronage | Penitents, hairdressers, perfumers |
| Feast | July 22 |
Symbols and appearances of Saint Mary Magdalene
Mary Magdalene is traditionally depicted with symbols of repentance and devotion. Among the most common objects are the perfume bottle, referring to the episode where she anoints Jesus' feet with precious oil. She is sometimes shown with long, loose hair, another symbol of her penance. Skulls or caves may also appear in depictions, recalling her withdrawal into solitude to atone for her sins.
Myths of Saint Mary Magdalene
A popular legend in France tells that Mary Magdalene, after the resurrection of Jesus, traveled to Provence to preach the Gospel and lived there as a hermit in a cave until her death. She is also often associated with redemption and Christ's unconditional love for repentant sinners. Her relics are venerated in several places in France, notably in Vézelay and Saint-Maximin-la-Sainte-Baume.
