Saint Mary Salome

Biography

Saint Mary Salome, also known as Salome the Myrophore or Irene (Greek equivalent to Salome), was a prominent figure in the early Christian community. She was the wife of Zebedee and the mother of Saint John the Apostle and Saint James the Greater. It is also believed that she may have been a cousin of the Blessed Virgin Mary. As one of the "three Marys," Saint Mary Salome played a significant role in the ministry of Jesus during his earthly life. She witnessed his miracles, heard his teachings, and accompanied him on his travels. Her devotion to Jesus was unwavering, and she was among the holy women who ministered to him. She is mentioned in the Gospel of Mark as one of the women who came to anoint Jesus' body on the morning of his resurrection. One particular Gospel story highlights an interaction between Jesus and Saint Mary Salome. She approached Jesus and asked him what places her sons, James and John, would have in his Kingdom. Jesus responded by teaching her about humility and sacrifice. He explained that the Father assigns places in the Kingdom and that James and John would need to follow his example to earn their places there. After witnessing Jesus' death on the cross, his entombment, and his resurrection, Saint Mary Salome continued to spread the Good News. According to legend, she traveled to Veroli, Italy, and spent the rest of her life there as a devoted disciple, sharing the message of Jesus' resurrection. Veroli became an essential center for her ministry, and she played a vital role in establishing and strengthening the Christian community in that region. Saint Mary Salome's feast day is celebrated on April 24th, although it was formerly commemorated on October 22nd. In the Orthodox calendar, her feast day is on August 3rd, and in the Armenian and Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod calendars, it is observed on April 9th and August 3rd, respectively. Though Saint Mary Salome does not have extensive representations in art or specific symbols associated with her, her life and devotion to Jesus serve as an inspiration to believers. She is venerated as a patron saint in Italy, particularly in Veroli and Castelliri. Saint Mary Salome's dedication to spreading the Good News and her role as a witness to Jesus' resurrection make her an important figure in Christian history. Her life serves as a reminder of the significance of humility, sacrifice, and steadfast faith in following Christ.