We gather today to celebrate with great joy the 50th anniversary of the ordination of women in The Episcopal Church. And precisely because of our joy, we keep in mind the long road that led to this occasion, the unnumbered women and men who were told they were separating themselves from the church by faithfully challenging it. On the Feast of Mary Magdalene, we look to her example. The commission of Mary Magdalene — a woman and collaborator in ministry united to the great High Priest — shows us that what for nearly 2000 years had been impossible for the church was in every way a possibility, a choice for Jesus.

Eucharist, St. Mary Magdalene: Judith 9:1,11-14 • Psalm 42:1-7• 2 Corinthians 5:14-18 • John 20:11-18