Cardinal Joseph W. Tobin of Newark shared a message with his sisters and brothers in Christ, reflecting on the significance of Mary Magdalen as the first witness and apostle of the Risen Lord. He emphasized Mary Magdalen's pivotal role in announcing the resurrection of Jesus, stating, "The first person to discover that the tomb was empty was Mary Magdalen."

Highlighting the importance of women in the Church, Cardinal Tobin referenced the 2023 Synod Synthesis Report, which emphasizes the equal dignity and complementary roles of women and men in the Church. The report calls for dialogue and collaboration between genders without subordination or competition, promoting a Church where men and women work together as protagonists.

Pope Francis also addressed the theological importance of women in the Church, stating, "The Church is woman. And if we do not know what a woman is, what the theology of a woman is, we will never understand what the Church is." The Pope emphasized the need to recognize the feminine identity of the Church, calling for a reflection on the Marian principle alongside the Petrine principle.

The Synod Synthesis Report highlighted the experiences and challenges faced by women in the Church, advocating for pastoral accompaniment and advocacy to address issues such as sexual violence, economic inequality, and abuse of power. It also acknowledged the significant contributions of women throughout history as missionaries, saints, theologians, and mystics.

Cardinal Tobin concluded his message by urging all members of the Church to reflect on the Synod's call to promote a Church where men and women collaborate without subordination or competition. Through the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary and St. Mary Magdalen, he hoped that women would continue to be recognized as co-responsible leaders and missionary disciples in all aspects of Church life.

As the Easter season continues, the reflections on Mary Magdalen's witness and the role of women in the Church serve as a reminder of the essential contributions of women to the faith community.