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

Catholic Daily Readings and Reflection for July 22, 2025 – Feast of Saint Mary Magdalene
Theme: The First Witness. The Faithful Seeker.

Today’s reflection honors Saint Mary Magdalene, the woman chosen to proclaim the Resurrection—the Apostle to the Apostles. Before Peter preached at Pentecost, before Thomas touched Christ’s wounds, it was Mary who saw the Risen Lord.

• In Song of Songs, we hear the longing of a soul in search of her beloved. It mirrors Mary’s early morning vigil, searching in sorrow but not in vain.

• The Psalm (Psalm 63) speaks of thirsting for God—a thirst Mary embodied, having been healed, forgiven, and transformed.

• In John’s Gospel, we witness the turning point: Jesus speaks her name. One word—Mary—and everything changes.

This Catholic feast day reflection explores why Jesus entrusted the greatest news in history to a woman once broken, how faithful love prepares us for divine encounter, and why recognition of Christ often comes through the heart, not the mind.

📖 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 the Feast of Saint Mary Magdalene

• Christians exploring contemplative spirituality

• Anyone seeking comfort in spiritual darkness

• Students of early Church history and women’s roles in Scripture

• Those longing to hear Christ call them by name

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

Video Podcast:
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Audio Podcast:
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