Fr. Rick’s Two-Minute Homily for the Feast of St. Mary Magdalene

July 22, 2025, John 20:1-2, 11-18

https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/072225.cfm

Go to the Tomb.

Something I always do when I am home on vacation is spend a few moments with my loved ones who have passed away. I notice a sense of reverence washes over me when I drive to the cemetery. It is a solemn moment standing over the graves of Mom and Dad, my brother-in-law Tom, my nephew Craig, my cousin Fr. Dick, and other relatives. Time seems to stand still. Loving memories of each of them flood my mind and heart. 

Today we celebrate the Feast of Mary Magdalene. Facing her fears of life without Jesus, she went to His tomb, just as we might do after losing someone we love. We all have graves inside us that we need to visit. These tombs are filled with the death of relationships with family or friends that were never reconciled. The tomb may also be filled with fears of facing the truth about ourselves. It was easier in the moment to bury those feelings than to face them. 

Don’t be afraid, my friends, regardless of what we buried in the past. When we look into those tombs with Mary Magdalene, Jesus will be with us. She didn’t realize it was Jesus at first, but she finally recognized Him when He called her name, “Mary.” 

We don’t need to analyze what happened or what we or someone else did or didn’t do. Judging and blaming only pull us deeper into the grave. Still, something freeing occurs when we witness the event with Jesus by our side.

Our Lord asks us, “Why are you weeping?” We see ourselves and others objectively as He sees us by observing, watching a past event without thinking or emotion. Soon, we recognize the face of Jesus in the one who caused us grief. As a result, something extraordinary happens to us. Healing replaces pain and sadness effortlessly. Try it. The Lord is with you. 

Gospel Challenge:

Hear Jesus call out your name and leave that grave forever. 

Love Your Neighbor! 

Fr. Rick Pilger, IC  
pastor@bscchurch.com