Bl. Mary Magdalene of Martinengo – Jul 27 – Homily – Fr John Lawrence

 

Fr John Lawrence gives the homily at Bloomington, IN, on Jul 27, 2023, on the life of Bl. Mary Magdalene of Martinengo who was given many mystical graces from God as well as many temptations from the devil. She grew in grace and strength against temptations and afflictions through her prayers and penances as a Capuchin Poor Clare.

God's presence in the terrifying spectacle at Mount Sinai aims to inspire awe and reverence in His people to guide them towards the blessings of the promised land ([Exodus 19:16-20](https://bible.usccb.org/bible/exodus/19?16)).

This points to the example of today's Blessed Mary Magdalene of the Counts of Martinengo. Born in Brescia, Italy, in 1687, she was raised in a noble household, where she developed a passion for study and prayer, revealing her chosen soul at an early age. Despite a traumatic accident at age eight, she miraculously remained unharmed and continued her journey of faith.

Educated at the Ursuline Monastery of St. Mary of the Angels, Mary Magdalene sought to follow Christ, dedicating herself to prayer and penance. After making her first communion, she made a vow of virginity at 13, despite undergoing a spiritual dark night.

After finishing her education and resisting an arranged marriage, Mary Magdalene had a vision where Our Lady, accompanied by St. Clare and St. Teresa of Avila, guided her to accept St. Clare's offer. Seeing crosses made of fire, she realized her calling as a martyr of love.

Despite her father's resistance, Mary Magdalene persisted in her desire to join the Poor Clares. Following a period of contemplation and almost surrendering to worldly temptations in Venice, she reaffirmed her decision to become a nun and received the name Mary Magdalene.

Throughout her spiritual journey, Mary Magdalene faced trials, including suspicion from her novice mistress. A miraculous event during voting for her profession confirmed her calling. Later, after making a general confession, peace returned to her soul.

Devoted to humility, she served in the humblest roles before being elected novice mistress three times. Her life in the monastery spanned 32 years, filled with prayer, work, penance, and mystical experiences such as the stigmata and ecstasies. Despite persecution and misunderstanding, she became a renowned spiritual writer and an insightful leader. Her writings were misjudged as heretical and burned by one of her confessors, causing suspension from her positions. Eventually, she was reinstated and continued her leadership until her health declined and she passed away.

Blessed Mary Magdalene left a legacy of faith, perseverance, and humility that inspires us to hear God's call and respond with an open and willing heart.

00:00 – Introduction - Predestination and Parables
01:13 – Biography: Early Life and Family Background
02:09 – Education and Early Religious Experience
02:54 – Miraculous Experiences and Spiritual Struggles
05:02 – Decision: Marriage versus Monastic Life
06:26 – Entrance to Monastery, Trials and Visionary Experiences
07:20 – Final Decision, Return to Brescia and Entrance to Poor Clares
08:41 – Opposition, Miracles, and Vows
09:58 – Early Life in the Monastery, Humble Duties
10:17 - Election as Novice Mistress
10:46 - Mystical Phenomena Experienced
11:07 - Comparison with St. Veronica Giuliani
11:32 - Persecution and Misunderstandings, then Abbess
12:44 - Illness, Resignation, and Death

Ave Maria!

Mass: Bl. Mary Magdalene of Martinengo - Opt Mem
Readings: Thursday 16th Week of Ordinary Time - http://usccb.org/bible/readings/072723.cfm
1st: exo 19:1-2, 9-11, 16-20
Resp: dan 3:52-56
Gsp: mat 13:10-17

More on the Readings: https://airmaria.com/r?m=686&r=1453

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