The Magdalene Mystique » 2007 » April

The Author

Betty Conrad Adam, an Episcopal priest, is resident Canon Theologian at Christ Church Cathedral, Houston, and spiritual director of the Magdalene Community. She holds a PhD in philosphy from Rice University and was a recipient of a Merrill Fellowship at the Harvard Divinity School.

The Book

The Magdalene Mystique retells the story of Mary Magdalene for our time. As the consummate “other” who is mislabelled and demonized, the Magdalene becomes an ancestor who can help us bridge our cultural and religious divisions. Her lost Gospel tells us how a more deeply connected consciousness can happen to all of us and how we can be lead into a “shared peace.”

The CD

The Magdalene Mystique: Songs From Within by Anita Kruse is a companion to the book, The Magdalene Mystique. The music that accompanies our services can be found on this CD along with voices from other religious traditions. You will find this music helpful for private devotion or for use in your community.

Obsession with Mary Magdalene?

posted April 13th, 2007 at 9:31 am by Betty

I am interested in your thoughts. The recent film on Mary Magdalene on the history channel (see Something About Mary Magdalene )mentioned an “obsession with Mary Magdalene.”

I wouldn’t call it an obsession but rather a “mystique” – a fascination and veneration for someone whose character has been harmed. I think it’s fair to say that this mystique has taken hold of some of us who want to right a wrong. A wrong done to a saint, and to women in general. And it’s a fork in the road – a turning point - that is changing our thinking in powerful ways.

mary magdalene women in the church misogyny feminism religion christianity