Ever wonder what the deal is with Mary Magdalene? Prostitute, or apostle? Does it matter? Want to learn more about the possibilities in Christian practice and tradition, but don't think a typical Bible study is your thing? Then this is for you!

We had such a fun party last year, we're going to do it every year!

We're piloting a new approach to understanding the Christian tradition so many of us have inherited: one that is so problematic, yet so full of promise. This is one of our developing study opportunities in community where we reckon with the whole of Christianity - the liberatory AND the ugly parts. It's not about being correct. The point is to find ways tradition can help us make useful sense of our lives and the times we live in now.

July 22 is Mary's feast day, so in this gathering, we'll examine together who Mary Magdalene was. We'll also look at the Gospel of Mary, one of the "Gnostic gospels" whose 5th-century manuscript was discovered in 1896. This year we'll read together passages from those texts.

This is one part class and one part group exploration. Pastor Marisa will provide historical context, a little background on New Testament writings generally, and an overview of the traditions and stories told about Mary Magdalene. That way we'll have a common framework for examining together what this powerful woman and saint offers us now in a world in global crisis. Then, we'll reflect together on what speaks to us about Mary and how she can inspire a spirituality that's wise, resilient, devoted, and leads to freedom.

Last year we discovered that there are lots of Magdalene devotees out there! Please feel free to wear red, or bring your favorite devotional stuff - your way of connecting with her may be exactly what someone else is yearning for!

Suggested donation $25 - NOTAFLOF