St. Mary of Bethany
Sister of Sts. Martha and Lazarus, who "chose the better part" sitting at Jesus's feet (Lk 10:39-42); anointed Jesus before his Passion (Jn 12:1-8). Joint Roman feast with Martha and Lazarus on July 29 (since 2021); her conflation with Mary Magdalene was Western tradition long dropped in modern liturgy.
Life & Times
Born: 1st century · Died: 1st century · From: Bethany / Judea.
Patronage
St. Mary of Bethany is invoked as the patron of contemplatives, hospitality, discipleship. Those in these callings or circumstances often turn to this saint in prayer.
“Lord, if you had been here, my brother would not have died.”— Gospel of John 11:32 — falling at Christ's feet before the raising of Lazarus.
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Devotional items honoring St. Mary of Bethany, from our Sancta Lumina collection and beyond.
About Catholic Saints
Catholic saints, including St. Mary of Bethany, are Christians whom the Catholic Church has formally recognized as having lived lifes of heroic holiness and who now dwell with God in heaven, offering an example of faith for those still on their earthly journey. Catholics don't worship saints, but ask them to pray to God with us and for us — much as one might ask a trusted friend to pray for them — trusting that those closest to God can join their voices to ours before Him. Discover more saints in the Catholic Shop Saints section.