Listeners of the Your Radical Truth Podcast are in for a treat as the dedicated advocate Rita L. Houlihan returned for a second episode, delving deeper into the captivating figure of Mary Magdalene. With her extensive research and passion for uncovering historical truths, Rita brought to light new insights and perspectives on the enigmatic woman who has intrigued scholars and believers alike for centuries.
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Dispelling Misconceptions
A significant portion of the episode was dedicated to debunking the misconceptions surrounding Mary Magdalene. Rita eloquently addressed the erroneous belief that Mary Magdalene was a penitent sinner, tracing its origins to interpretations by influential figures throughout history. By shedding light on the harm caused by perpetuating this myth, Rita challenged listeners to reconsider their understanding of Mary Magdalene’s identity.
Evolution of Mary Magdalene’s Legend
Rita masterfully outlined the evolution of Mary Magdalene’s legend over time, highlighting key elements such as her supposed journey to southern France, miraculous acts, and her portrayal as a penitent figure. Through meticulous analysis of scholarly research, Rita unraveled the complex tapestry of legends surrounding Mary Magdalene, offering fresh insights into her enduring legacy.
Critique of Depictions in Art and Literature
The episode also featured a critical examination of how Mary Magdalene has been depicted in art and literature. Rita urged listeners to question prevailing notions and advocate for a scripture-based understanding of Mary Magdalene’s identity, calling for accuracy and reconsideration of labels on artworks.
Scholarly Insights
Drawing on her extensive reading of scholars’ research, Rita discussed efforts in the 20th and 21st centuries to dispel the myth of Mary Magdalene as a penitent sinner. Rita cited scholars like Mary Thompson, Sandra Schneiders, Carla Ricci, Mary Coloe, and Francis J. Moloney. Their linguistic and historical analysis deepen our understanding of Mary Magdalene’s role in scripture and bring this complex figure into a new light.
Reflections and Implications
Throughout the episode, Rita’s insights sparked profound reflections on the theological and symbolic implications of Mary Magdalene’s role as an evangelizer and witness to the Resurrection. By encouraging further exploration and reflection on these important biblical narratives, Rita underscored the enduring significance of Mary Magdalene in Christian history.
Conclusion
As Rita L. Houlihan concluded her second appearance on the Your Radical Truth Podcast, listeners were left with a renewed appreciation for the complex figure of Mary Magdalene and the ongoing quest to uncover and share the truth amidst layers of myth and misconception. Through Rita’s tireless dedication to scholarly research and passionate advocacy, Mary Magdalene’s legacy continues to captivate and inspire, inviting listeners to delve deeper into the rich tapestry of Christian history.
About Rita L. Houlihan
Rita L. Houlihan is a dedicated member of Ascension Parish in New York City, where she shares her passion for faith by teaching Confirmation. Beyond her parish duties, Rita serves on the Board of Directors for FutureChurch. She was a founding member of FutureChurch’s “Catholic Women Preach” project, and tirelessly advocates for the restoration of our historical memory of early Christian women leaders. She is grateful to Christine Schenk, CSJ the founding executive director FutureChurch who, over 27 years ago, began annual St. Mary Magdalene celebrations – a source of energy and inspiration!
Driven by a profound curiosity about the portrayal of Mary Magdalene throughout history, Rita has embarked on a journey of research and activism. She has explored pivotal questions surrounding the distortion of Mary Magdalene’s identity by Pope Gregory I and the enduring prevalence of legends over scripture.
In her quest to reshape perceptions, Rita champions the creation of new art forms to counter centuries of negative imagery associated with Mary Magdalene. Notable works such as Margaret Beaudette’s “Mary Magdalene Proclaims the Resurrection” and Laura James’ series, “Mary Magdalene and the Risen Jesus,” serve as powerful tools in her mission.
Rita’s advocacy reached a significant milestone when, in collaboration with a dedicated group, in 2015 she petitioned Pope Francis for corrective action. This effort led to the Vatican’s designation of Mary Magdalene’s mass as a Feast, a testament to Rita’s unwavering commitment to restoring the rightful place of women in Christianity.
Despite a successful career spanning over three decades at IBM, where she excelled in sales and Change Strategy Consulting, Rita’s true calling lies in her work with FutureChurch. Armed with a BA in Psychology and Philosophy from Newton College of the Sacred Heart (now Boston College) and an MA in Educational Psychology from NYU, Rita combines her academic background with her strategic prowess to drive meaningful change.
As a seasoned public speaker and experienced board member, Rita brings her skills in strategic planning and content development to the forefront of her advocacy. Her primary focus remains on the “Reclaim Magdalene” project, an initiative aimed at elevating the voices of Mary Magdalene and other overlooked women of the New Testament.
Through her tireless efforts, Rita seeks not only to honor the past but also to inspire a renewed appreciation for the pivotal role of women like Mary Magdalene in shaping Christian history.
Rita can be reached at ReclaimMagdalene@gmail.com
About Margaret Mary O’Connor
Margaret Mary O’Connor, as a member of the Catholic Laity, thought she knew everything about the Catholic Church, at least until she came upon a centuries-old Scandal of lies and cover-up by the Hierarchy of that Church. Frankly, she was fed up being lied to by her own Church, about its own past Church’s History on Women priests. With that realization, she truly felt in that moment, the monumental feeling of betrayal by her own Church.
Follow Margaret, as she travels down this Highway of Radical Truth where lies and outright coverup will be disclosed. Millions of Catholics are unaware of that
past presence of Women Bishop’s, Women Deacons, as well as Women Priests, all there hiding in plain sight, in Early Church History.
As the complicity of this centuries-old Scandal continues, Margaret wants her fellow Catholics to learn the actual truth of this matter for themselves. She strongly believes, at minimal, any Catholic deserves the actual truth of this matter. To say that change is needed is hardly an understatement. She doesn’t let the Church’s betrayal stop her from uncovering some very fascinating Church Skeleton’s – one which very well might help solve our current priest shortage issue today.
Margaret Mary O’Connor has been called, “The Modern Day David” on many occasions. On a mission to reveal carefully guarded secrets of the Catholic Church, she unveils the truth through her well-researched writings.
Author of Scandal in the Shadows and Journey of a Celiac’s Soul, Margaret Mary is a force to be reckoned with.
