Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
Alleluia! He is Risen, Alleluia! Alleluia!
Today we join with the Church throughout the world in proclaiming the glory of the Resurrection, the ultimate triumph of Jesus Christ over sin and death. The tomb is truly empty. The signs of death – the Cross and the grave – are now reminders of life and victory. Today, hope dawns anew for those who believe. The Church rejoices also in the new spiritual life that has been given to our candidates and catechumens, who in the Easter Vigil, were received into the sacramental life of the Church. The Body of Christ on earth, the Church, grows with great joy as new members are added! Today the Church also rejoices as so many return to worship.
After two years of pandemic concerns, in the midst of a world that seems often headed toward violence and destruction, we need the Good News of the Resurrection more than ever. We need to be together in prayer and worship more than ever. Easter is always a day for great crowds at Mass. Rejoice in the sheer number of brothers and sisters in faith that you see around you today. But don’t let this day and the power of our communion with one another in faith remain isolated on this one day. We have had enough of isolation. Rather, let today be a day of renewal as we celebrate Christ’s triumphant gift of life. Let today be a day of renewal in faith. Let today be a day of recommitment to the practice of the faith, a renewed appreciation for gift that it is to worship together, side by side with fellow believers, a day to know the fellowship and support of a community of faith.
Peace,
Fr. Sam
