Dear Parishioners and Friends,
A few days ago I received a beautiful Easter Card from Bishop Rene Ramirez, entitled “He is not here, he has risen! Just as he said.”
These are the gentle and astonishing words spoken by the angel at the empty tomb on Easter morning. They were spoken to the women who were the first to come looking for Jesus. Importantly, they are spoken to each of us today.
As a parish community, we come to Easter carrying many different experiences. Some would be rejoicing with gratitude; others carrying the quiet loads of grief and uncertainty. Some feel strong in faith; others may be searching or feeling tired. To everyone, the Easter message is spoken with tenderness and hope: “He is not here, he has risen!”
Jesus is not confined to the tomb; nor is he distant from our lives. He is alive and present in our midst… in our homes, in our workplaces, in our parish, in our gathering for the Eucharist, and in the quiet moments of our daily lives. He walks with us, especially when the road feels unclear.
“He is not here.” the angel said. The stone has been rolled away. God is at work among us, often in ways we do not immediately see. There is hope in all those areas in our lives that seem closed due to loss, disappointment, struggle or failing relationships.
“He has risen!” This is the heart of our faith and the source of our hope, even as a parish community. It reminds us that life overcomes death, that mercy is stronger than sin, and that God’s light shines into every darkness.
“Just as he said.” Our God is faithful. Individually and as a community, we trust that the promises of God continue to unfold in our lives. In our shared prayer, in our care for one another, and in our mission to witness Christ’s presence in the world, we know he is with us.
As we celebrate this Easter, may the risen Lord renew our community. May we support one another with compassion, strengthen one another in faith, and be bearers of hope to all we meet.
Christ is truly risen. Alleluia!
Fr Silvio