Commemoration of Mary, Joanna and Salome, Myrrhbearers

Today we remember and give thanks for Joanna, Mary and Salome, Myrrhbearers.  Known in some traditions as “the faithful women,” the visit of these three persons and other women to the tomb of Jesus on the first Easter morning is noted in the Gospel records of Matthew (28:1), Mark (16:1), and Luke (24:10). Joanna was the wife of Cuza, a steward in Herod’s household (Lk. 8:3). Mary, the mother of James (the son of Alphaeus), was another of the women who faithfully provided care for Jesus and His disciples from the time of His Galilean ministry through His burial after the crucifixion. Salome, the mother of the sons of Zebedee (Mt. 27:56), joined with the women both at the cross and in the bringing of the spices to the garden tomb. These “faithful women” have been honored in the church through the centuries as examples of humble and devoted service to the Lord.

Collect of the Day:

Mighty God, your crucified and buried Son did not remain in the tomb for long.  Give us joy in the tasks set before us, that we might carry out faithful acts of service as did Joanna, Mary and Salome, offering to you the sweet perfume of our grateful hearts, so that we, too, may see the glory of your resurrection and proclaim with unrestrained eagerness and fervor the Good News worked in us through our Lord Jesus Christ who rose from the dead and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.