Saint Joanna the Myrrhbearer

Early Life and Background: Joanna, known in Koinē Greek as Ἰωάννα (Iōanna), was the wife of Chuza, who managed the household of Herod Antipas, the ruler of Galilee. Her name, derived from the Hebrew יוֹחָנָה (Yôḥānāh), means "Yahweh has been gracious." This distinguishes her from other women named Joanna or Joanne in biblical texts.

Healing and Discipleship: Joanna's life took a transformative turn when she encountered Jesus. The Gospel of Luke (8:2-3) mentions that she was healed by Jesus from evil spirits and infirmities. Following her healing, she became one of Jesus' devoted followers, accompanying Him and the twelve apostles on their travels. Joanna, along with other women, supported Jesus and His disciples out of her own means, showcasing her deep commitment to His ministry.

Witness to the Resurrection: Joanna's faithfulness extended to the events following Jesus' crucifixion. In Luke 24:10, she is named among the women who brought spices to Jesus' tomb, only to find it empty. Alongside Mary Magdalene and Mary of Clopas, Joanna was among the first to witness the Resurrection, becoming a crucial bearer of this profound news to the disciples.

Veneration and Legacy: Joanna is recognized as a saint in various Christian traditions, including the Catholic, Eastern Orthodox, and Anglican churches. In Orthodox tradition, she is honored as "Saint Joanna the Myrrhbearer" and commemorated on the "Sunday of the Myrrhbearers," celebrated two Sundays after Pascha (Easter). This commemoration highlights her role among the women who carried myrrh to Jesus' tomb. Similarly, in the Lutheran Church–Missouri Synod and The Episcopal Church, she is remembered on August 3 as one of the Holy Myrrhbearers, alongside Mary of Clopas and Salome.

In the Early Christian Community: Though not mentioned by name in certain accounts, Joanna is believed to have been among the women who joined the disciples and Mary, the mother of Jesus, in the upper room in prayer. She was likely part of the group of 120 who chose Matthias to replace Judas and was present on the Day of Pentecost, witnessing the birth of the early Church.

Possible Identification with Junia: Scholars like Richard Bauckham propose that Joanna, the wife of Chuza, might be identified with Junia mentioned in Romans 16:7. Bauckham argues that "Joanna" could be her Jewish name and "Junia" her Roman name, reflecting a common practice among Jews of that era. Paul describes Junia as "prominent among the apostles," which aligns with Joanna's significant role during Jesus' ministry. This identification underscores her prominence in the early Christian community from a very early period.

Biblical References:

• Luke 8:1-3: Joanna is listed among the women who were cured by Jesus and supported His ministry.
• Luke 24:10: Joanna is mentioned as one of the women who discovered the empty tomb and witnessed the Resurrection.
• Matthew 28:8-10: Although not named, Joanna is part of the group of women to whom Jesus first appeared post-Resurrection, instructing them to inform the disciples.

Joanna's story is a testament to her unwavering faith and dedication. From being healed by Jesus to supporting His ministry and witnessing His Resurrection, her life exemplifies the transformative power of encountering Christ. Her legacy continues to inspire believers, highlighting the crucial role of women in the early Church and their enduring impact on Christian history.

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