Feast of Mary Magdalene

We’re one week away from Mary Magdalene’s feast day (July 22nd).

I've carried a devotion to Mary since my church years, long before I was drawn to study (or even acknowledge) her gospel. A few years ago, I was fortunate to discover Meggan Watterson's work, which significantly shaped my understanding of a love-centered faith.

In addition to tending an altar (offerings: flowers, wine, honey, eggs), I try to incorporate other ways of honoring Mary throughout the year. One of my favorite rituals for summer (solar infusion season ☼) is creating a devotional balm made with olive oil infused with rose, lavender, and mint, finished with myrrh and rose dust. My typical ratio is 1 part wax to 4ish parts oil. 

I can’t remember if I’ve ever shared this poem, but it’s a favorite about the resurrection. Rather than presenting the moment as one of triumph and celebration, it dwells on the sorrow that came before, with Mary finding no immediate consolation, even in the presence of angels. I’ve woven several lines into novenas:

Excerpt from ‘Easter Sonnets. I. Mary Magdalene On Easter Morning’ by Samuel John Stone  

“'Why weepest thou?' Yet was she all unmoved.
Angels sufficed not for the Form she loved,
Nor all their glory for the stricken Lord.
Herein was love; not Heaven itself can bring
Requital for the vision of its King.”

My shop will be open this Friday (July 17th) at 2:00 PM Eastern. This is a continuation of last month’s release, with 100% of profits from items listed “in offering” going to @the.auto.body.shop, a local mobile resource supporting bodily autonomy, harm reduction, and community care. I’ll have several new statuettes, a few zines, and a couple of other small charms.

The garden is in full swing! Since we’re lucky to have an abundance of cucumbers already, my husband made the first batches of pickles this afternoon, and I'm about to put together the biggest bowl of tzatziki.

I’m most excited about expanding our native garden, with this year’s additions of aster, white beardtongue, blue lobelia, coneflower, wild bergamot, black cohosh, and virgin's bower. I’ll share a full rundown soon.