Easter of Resurrection MMXXIV - €1.30

The postage stamp the Vatican has chosen to celebrate Easter 2024, created by artist Vitaliy Shtanko, depicts the moment when the Risen Jesus appeared to Mary Magdalene, as she wept and prayed before the tomb. The encounter between the Risen Christ and Mary Magdalene offers a profound message. Mary Magdalene was the first to receive the announcement of Christ’s resurrection, becoming its witness. Mary Magdalene was among those who loved Christ most deeply and showed it. When the time of Calvary came, she was there with the Blessed Virgin Mary and Saint John, standing at the foot of the Cross (John 19:25). She did not flee in fear like the disciples, nor did she deny Him like Peter; rather, she remained faithfully present from the moment of her conversion to the Holy Sepulchre. The figure of Mary Magdalene represents not only the mission of the Church, called to bring the message of the Resurrection to the world, but here, above all, she stands as a symbol of persevering prayer.