By Chinyere Nwoye
Catholic faithful marked the Memorial of Ss. Martha, Mary and Lazarus today, July 29 with calls to cultivate trustworthy friendships and companionship modeled after the biblical family of Bethany.
The Church celebrates the three siblings together on July 29 each year to honor their close relationship with Jesus Christ. According to the Gospel of John 11:5, Jesus loved Martha, Mary and Lazarus, and often visited their home for rest and fellowship. He also spent the last days before His Passion with them in Bethany, as recorded in John 12:1-3.
In a reflection on the day’s readings from Jeremiah 15:10, 16-21 and John 11:19-27, Rev. Fr. Donatus Oragwam, Parish Priest of St. Matthew’s Catholic Church, Amawbia, highlighted the depth of the bond between the family and Christ. The high point of their story, he noted, was when Jesus raised Lazarus from the dead after four days in the tomb, demonstrating both divine power and the intimacy of their friendship.
“Jesus showed us through Martha, Mary and Lazarus that we need close friends and good companions on this life’s journey, for no man is an island.”
The homily emphasized that believers must support one another to grow in faith and prevent anyone from falling into depression or frustration, citing Ephesians 4:2-3 on bearing with one another in love.
The cleric described Martha as a model of service, Mary as a model of contemplation, and Lazarus as a witness to the hope of resurrection. Together, he said, they represent the balance of prayer, work, and community that sustains Christian life.
The faithful were also reminded that trustworthy companionship involves being present for one another in times of grief and joy, just as the sisters welcomed Jesus into their home and confessed their faith in Him during moments of sorrow.
As part of the day’s devotion, parishioners were encouraged to pray the Holy Rosary and to ask God for the grace to build homes and communities rooted in love, solidarity, and faith.
The celebration ended with prayers for families, for those mourning loved ones, and for God’s protection and blessings for the rest of the week.
Chinyere Nwoye is of the Ministry of Information and Value Reformation, Anambra State
