MEMORIAL OF MARTHA AND MARY OF BETHANY

Martha and Mary
Holy Women of Bethany and Friends of the Lord
Memorial observed on Thursday of the Third Week of Gracetide

Martha and Mary of Bethany, together with Lazarus (their brother,) are described in the New Testament as close and well-loved friends of Jesus. In the Gospel reading appointed for their feast, Martha and Mary are each noted for what they do best. As such, Martha is often an example of the active life of extending the ministry of the Church into the world, while Mary is generally characterized as a guide in turning away from worldly concerns and embracing the contemplative life that Christ offers. Neither vocation is criticized as being wrong, in spite of what seems to be a reproof of Martha on Jesus’ part. Both vocations, while honorable, cannot exist without the other. As the contemporary adage says, “one can be so heavenly minded that they are of no earthly good.” The reverse is equally true. Martha is obviously a deeply faithful woman in her own right, proclaiming her faith in the ability of Christ to raise her brother in John’s gospel. Mary exemplifies selfless love in her own manner when she anoints Jesus’ feet with ointment and wipes them with her hair. Together, Martha and Mary are intense examples of love and devotion to Christ, and true guides on the path towards a life balanced between caring for worldly needs and cultivating a deep faith in the Savior.

Prayer of the Day
Heavenly Father, your Son enjoyed rest and refreshment in the home of Martha and Mary of Bethany. Give us the grace to follow in their steps, loving you, hearing you, and serving you as we minister to those we serve for the sake of Jesus our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.

Psalm of the Day: 36: 5-10
New Testament Reading: Romans 12: 9-13
Gospel Reading: Luke 10: 38-42

Preface to the Eucharistic Prayer
It is indeed right and salutary
that we should at all times and in all places
offer thanks and praise to you,
O Lord, holy Father, through Christ our Lord.

On this day we celebrate the memory of Saint Martha,
who welcomed the King of heaven into her home,
and served him with great attentiveness,
showing her love through her works of service.

We celebrate also Saint Mary her sister,
who forsook the work of the house to give heed to the teaching of the Savior,
who learned humbly and faithfully at his feet,
and thus chose the better portion.

Through them we learn that both service and learning,
each have their proper time and rightful place,
and so we join with them and the heavenly host,
in their exultant hymn of praise.