Sts. Martha, Mary and Lazarus, "Friends of Christ."

In the household of Bethany the Lord Jesus experienced the family spirit and friendship of Martha, Mary and Lazarus, and for this reason the Gospel of John states that he loved them. Martha generously offered him hospitality, Mary listened attentively to his words and Lazarus promptly emerged from the tomb at the command of the One who humiliated death.

 The Supreme Pontiff Pope Francis,  has decreed that 29 July be designated in the General Roman Calendar as the Memorial of Saints Martha, Mary and Lazarus, considering the important evangelical witness they offered, and  resolving Mary's mistaken identity with Mary of Magdala.