Bonjour!
I’m Dr. Jeanne Michele. I am deeply engaged with Mary Magdalene’s reemergence in today’s world and believe she is ushering in a new era of partnership, sisterhood, and relational spirituality.
In recent years, Mary Magdalene has been making herself known to people across cultures, faith traditions, and spiritual paths — and to those with no religious affiliation at all.
My relationship with her story has been shaped through doctoral research, lived inquiry, and multiple pilgrimages to France. While this work may one day take the form of a book, it is currently unfolding through writing, small-group gatherings, and lived experience. In October 2026, I am honored to co-lead my first experiential pilgrimage to France in devotion to Mary Magdalene.
Bearing Witness
I believe deeply in the power of sharing our stories. So many people are encountering Mary Magdalene in this moment—often unexpectedly, often intimately. I share part of my own relationship with Magdalene on the Home page of this site, and I believe we are only just beginning to witness the resurgence of her power, presence, and grace. Much of her story remains shrouded in mystery—and perhaps that mystery itself is part of her enduring invitation.
What is most striking about Mary Magdalene is the deeply personal way she meets those who encounter her. She is not discovered through institutional worship or doctrine. Rather, she is encountered heart to heart—touching lives quietly, persistently, and profoundly.
She holds the profound distinction of being both a flesh-and-blood woman who lived into her calling, and an archetype of Sisterhood—one who stands beside us, hand in hand, guiding us through life’s challenges. She also embodies Divine Partnership: a relational spirituality grounded in presence, mutuality, and love.
Ancient texts offer us fragments of her story. Mary Magdalene is mentioned thirteen times in the Bible and is the only woman in the Gospels identified by her full name, rather than as the daughter or wife of a male figure. In all four Gospels, she is a witness to the Resurrection, and in the Gospel of John, she stands as the sole witness.
The Pistis Sophia refers to her as “the woman who knew the All.” The Gospel of Philip names her as Jesus’ intimate companion. Saints and mystics throughout history have traveled to her sacred sites in France, recording encounters and visitations attributed to her enduring presence.
She is also the one who anointed Jesus—the Messiah, “the Anointed One.” As the anointer, Mary Magdalene holds the role of prophet, bearer of sacred authority, and initiator within the Christ tradition.
Women’s ancient stories are often found between the cracks and crevices of patriarchal texts. They ask us to listen carefully, interpret thoughtfully, and read between the lines. Mary Magdalene’s story has been carried forward through the devotion of mystics, the courage of scholars, and the vision of artists she has inspired across two millennia.
I am honored to be among those who feel called to help restore and deepen our understanding of this powerful, wise, and steadfast woman—and to support others in encountering her in ways that are personal, meaningful, and alive. I look forward to continuing my own descent into her mystery, and to walking alongside those who feel drawn to do the same.
I Would Love to Hear Your Story!
I would love to hear from anyone with a personal story to share about their encounters with Miriam of Magdala.