The hometown of Saint Mary Magdalene, with its archaeological site, has quickly become the leading pilgrimage destination in Galilee

(Fountain: ZENIT) – Over 300 Arab Christians, members of the diplomatic corps, and religious leaders from the Holy Land have gathered for the feast of Saint Mary Magdalene in her hometown.

It was the first time that the Magdala Center celebrated the liturgical feast of the first witness to Jesus’ resurrection since the decree issued by Pope Francis on June 10, 2016.

The holy Mass was presided over by Monsignor Giacinto-Boulos Marcuzzo, auxiliary bishop of the Latin Patriarchate in Israel.

The prayer and worship center Duc in Altum was the place where the Mass and the ceremony took place in the Chapel of the Boat, which features an altar reproducing a 1st-century boat.

During the holy Mass, Monsignor Marcuzzo emphasized the commitment of women in the Church. “Raising the liturgical memory of Saint Mary Magdalene to a feast,” said the prelate, “is an impressive step forward by the Catholic Church. Magdalene was considered the apostle of the apostles and, as such, was the first witness to the Resurrection and the first woman to spread the Good News.”

He also thanked the Legionaries of Christ, the Regnum Christi movement, the priests, the consecrated women, and the volunteers who care for this sacred place. “You have done a wonderful job, and the local and universal Church thank you!” he exclaimed.

There is a strong connection between Magdala, the Hebrew city where Mary Magdalene was born, and the historical context of Jesus Christ

The sacred site is dedicated to preserving and continuing research on archaeological discoveries in the area. The construction of the guesthouse, the pilgrimage center, and the Magdalena Institute will also impact the local community, attracting many visitors and pilgrims.

“When Pope Francis proclaimed the elevation of Saint Mary Magdalene to a feast, he wanted to pay tribute to women,” said Fr. Juan Solana LC, director of the Magdala Center. “I believe Mary Magdalene is an example for all women today. Indirectly, we felt responsible for preparing this site for all Christians and, I would say, for anyone interested in discovering the 1st-century city of Magdala.”

At the beginning of the construction of a guesthouse, archaeologists uncovered the remains of a 1st-century Jewish city. It quickly became clear that it was the ancient Magdala/Taricheae, the old city of Mary Magdalene.

Initially, the project shifted its plans and funds toward archaeology and related research. Later, excavations reached 1.4 km deep, revealing at least 80% of the city.

Magdala is among the itineraries of many pilgrimages and tours and is rapidly becoming a destination for visitors to the Holy Land

Trip Advisor has ranked Magdala as the most visited place in Galilee for its service and hospitality. It has welcomed 140,000 visitors so far, with another 60,000 expected before the end of 2016.

Archaeological discoveries in Magdala have reinforced the historical connections between Jews and Christians.