Venerable Martha and Mary of Bethany

The righteous sisters Martha and Mary, residents of Bethany near Jerusalem and sisters of the righteous Lazarus of the Four Days, are repeatedly mentioned in the Gospels as close to Christ and hosting Him in their home. The Evangelist Luke recounts how Martha busied herself preparing hospitality for the Lord while Mary sat at His feet listening to His word, earning the Savior's praise: "Mary has chosen the good part, which will not be taken from her" (Luke 10:38-42). The Evangelist John describes in detail the raising of their brother Lazarus: Martha was first to meet Christ, confessing faith in Him as the Messiah and Son of God, while Mary's grief moved the Savior Himself to tears at the tomb of His friend (John 11). After Lazarus's resurrection the sisters again hosted Christ in their home six days before Pascha, when Mary anointed the Savior's feet with precious myrrh (John 12:1-8). The Church venerates them as an image of active and contemplative service to Christ. Feast: June 4/17, and also on the Sunday of the Myrrh-bearing Women.