Saint Joanna the Myrrhbearer

A life of faith

Joanna appears in the Gospel of Luke among the women who supported Jesus during his public ministry. She was the wife of Chuza, a steward in Herod’s household. She also belonged to the women who went to the tomb after the Crucifixion, intending to anoint Jesus’ body. There they received the proclamation of his Resurrection. The OCA life additionally records a tradition that she recovered the head of John the Baptist. Her commemoration remembers faithful service both during Jesus’ ministry and at a moment when grief might have made withdrawal easier.

The Eastern Orthodox Church remembers saints in prayer and commemoration. Their lives offer examples for Christians learning to live their faith.

A reflection

Read Luke 8 and 24 with attention to the women who served. Consider one quiet responsibility through which you can remain faithful when circumstances are painful.

Read the Orthodox source

Feast dates follow the linked source. Local calendars and commemorations may vary. Themes describe a saint’s life; quiz suggestions do not assign a baptismal patron. Discuss choosing a patron saint with your priest.