Saints Martha, Mary and Lazarus, friends of Jesus

Pope Francis declared in 2021 that July 29 will be celebrated as a common day of commemoration for Saint Martha, Mary, and Lazarus, three close friends of Jesus who welcomed Him into their home, listened to His teachings with all their hearts, and believed He was the Resurrection and the Life. The feast honors their unwavering faith and devotion during times of hardship and uncertainty. The story begins with Martha, Mary, and their brother Lazarus, residents of Bethany, who invited Jesus to their home as a cherished guest. Unlike other encounters where Jesus confronted religious authorities or performed miracles for sinners, this visit was one of simple hospitality. Despite the risks associated with Jesus returning to Judea during a time of political tension, Martha and Mary called upon Him without hesitation, showing their deep trust in His divine mission. Martha’s character is highlighted through her direct and heartfelt declaration of faith after Lazarus’s death. She tells Jesus, “Lord, I believe that You are the Christ, the Son of God, who comes into the world.” This moment underscores her unwavering belief in Jesus’ power over life and death. In contrast, Jesus notes that Martha is “worried and troubled about many things,” yet He commends her for her active engagement in preparing a meal for Him and His disciples. Meanwhile, Mary, who sat at Jesus’ feet listening to His teachings, is praised for choosing the “better part.” Mary’s act of washing Jesus’ feet with her tears and hair symbolizes profound devotion. According to the Gospel of John, this gesture moved Jesus to praise her for her choice, contrasting with Martha’s busyness. The narrative continues with the raising of Lazarus from the dead, an event that caused many Jews to turn away from their traditional beliefs and place their faith in Jesus. Lazarus became a powerful witness to Jesus’ divinity, and his resurrection marked a turning point in the early Christian community. Lazarus’ life after his resurrection is surrounded by numerous legends. Some accounts suggest he traveled with Peter to Syria, while others claim he and his family were safely transported to Cyprus despite attempts by Jewish authorities to prevent their escape. After thirty years of service as a bishop, Lazarus reportedly died peacefully. These stories reflect the reverence and admiration held for him within early Christian circles. Both Martha and Lazarus were honored early on. Around 390 AD, the Roman pilgrim Egeria described a procession near the tomb of Lazarus during the Easter season, indicating the early recognition of his significance. In Africa, Augustine noted that during the Easter celebration, the Gospel reading focused on Lazarus’ resurrection. These traditions highlight the enduring influence of these figures in Christian worship. Saint Martha is considered the patroness of housewives, cooks, and domestic servants, reflecting her role as a devoted hostess and caregiver. Saint Lazarus is the patron saint of bakers, undertakers, and those working in hospices and soup kitchens. Together, Martha, Mary, and Lazarus are patrons of siblings, symbolizing unity, care, and spiritual guidance among families. The commemoration of these three individuals serves as a reminder of their unique roles in the life of Jesus and their lasting impact on Christian tradition. Their stories continue to inspire believers around the world, offering lessons in faith, devotion, and the transformative power of love.