I’m drawn to Mary and Jesus, but not so much the patriarchal framework around much of Christianity. How do you approach this?

Martine

Personally, I come from a background of viewing religion also as something “suppressive” or something “outdated”. I also had a lot of resentment toward the system, towards men, and I didn’t want anything to do with it, other than to reclaim my power as a woman, outside of the system, and have the freedom to be where I wanted, with whomever I wanted, wherever I wanted. So, I understand where you’re coming from. The “divine union” of Mary (Magdalene) and Jesus sounded pretty harmonious to me after having experienced nothing but drama in relationships.
I’ve met myself in the door regarding this topic, though. Now I see Mary and Mary Magdalene as Saints of the brokenhearted, who stood by Christ, and as the Mother of all humanity. And, I see Jesus as the God that became flesh, the God that is the One True God that died on the cross for you, and me, and all humanity. The divine union might be a sacrament that can open us further up God’s mysteries, but the True mystery is that of Christ. Mary knew this, and Mary Magdalene knew this. They kept their eyes on Christ, and that’s what made them the great women they were. Why should it be any different for me and you? Instead of swinging from the patriarchal idea to the matriarchal idea, why not walk in the Way Christ says to walk in? To see us all as equal to God and each other?
Now I believe that the structure that Christianity brings, isn’t bad, but supportive of our spiritual faith walk and also our psychological and relational wellbeing. And I’ve concluded this after more than enough experimentation, but also research.
Religion has in fact shown plenty of benefits, which I have studied in a class called “Religion Psychology” as part of my Clinical Psychology studies. I hope the following can help you view Christianity (and religion) through a new lens!

<aside> 👉🏻

Question for you to contemplate on: “Who are you putting on the throne of your heart? If it’s not Christ (who died for you!), who or what is it?!” — Katharina

</aside>

Here are some psychological benefits that Christianity can bring according to Religion Psychology research.

The psychological benefits of practicing Christianity and religion are supported by extensive research in the field of psychology of religion. Here are key findings from academic studies:

1. Meaning, Purpose, and Existential Well-Being

Viktor Frankl’s Man’s Search for Meaning (1963) and his logotherapy approach emphasize that meaning-making is essential for psychological health. Religion provides a structured way to find meaning, especially in suffering (Park, 2013).
Studies show that religious belief is positively correlated with a strong sense of purpose, which in turn reduces depression and increases life satisfaction (Krause, 2012; Steger & Frazier, 2005).

2. Social Support & Community Well-Being

Religious congregations provide social integration, support, and belonging, which are key protective factors against mental distress (Ellison & Levin, 1998).
Research finds that people who attend church regularly have lower rates of loneliness and social isolation (Lim & Putnam, 2010).
Social support from religious groups helps buffer the effects of stress, grief, and trauma (Koenig, 2012).