EASTER SUNDAY– 8^TH /9^TH APRIL 2023

Dear Parishioners,

“He is Risen, Alleluia”! Today we rejoice because Jesus has been raised from the dead. This is the promise of eternal life for us. The tomb is empty …. the linen cloths are lying abandoned, not need any more….

In the beautiful sequence prayer, we hear:

“Christ, the undefiled, hath sinners to the Father reconciled. Death with life contended: combat strangely ended! Life’s own champion, slain, yet lives to reign … I saw Christ’s glory as he rose … Christ, my hope has risen … he goes before you into Galilee …”

Jesus had told his disciples that he would be betrayed, suffer, and die, but after three days he would rise again! Those who heard those words, “he would rise again”, had no idea what Jesus really meant. We hear the words: “Where have you put him? He is not here … Our own hope had been … I refuse to believe unless …”. Here is an indication that the disciples were confused.

It is only gradually after the Resurrection, that his disciples begin to realise what being “raised from the dead” meant. Even now, we who follow and believe in Jesus, do not fully understand the complete implications.

When Jesus spoke Mary’s name – she recognised him. The two disciples on the road to Emmaus said: “Did not our hearts burn within us, as he explained the scriptures to us … and they recognised him in the Breaking of Bread”. We now recognise Jesus in His Word, the Words of Scripture and also when we gather to celebrate the Eucharist, sharing His Body and Blood. So, we remember His promise, “where two or three gathered in my name, I am there with them”.

He “going before us into Galilee”, means he is with us and leading us in life’s journey. There is no part of our lives where Jesus has not been there already. In his humanity He has experienced all our human situations. Therefore, we can place our trust in Him.

We welcome the Risen Lord into our lives once more and ask him to let “his face shine on us” and light up our path.

Thanks to all who have helped out and joined in the Holy Week Ceremonies. Thanks also for your greeting cards and gifts.

We extend a warm welcome to all visitors joining us during Easter.

A Blessed Easter – He is risen indeed. Alleluia!

Fr Joe and Sr Anabel