Easter Greetings – Taking His wounded hands in ours.
Friends, we once again stand before the empty tomb and hear the angelic voice that has come to us through the centuries with undiminished power: “Why do you seek the living among the dead?” The stone has been rolled away. The darkness of the grave has given way to glory, and so the light of Jesus’ resurrection, His victory over suffering and death, shines upon us all. This light of His Resurrection is our constant source of joy and hope, and it reminds us that no darkness is absolute, no wound is beyond His mercy, no future closed to God’s grace.
How we need to hear this message at this time. There seems to be so much to trouble our spirit and contentment – conflict in the Middle East, the ongoing war in the Ukraine, the struggle with daily living and expenses, troubling social issues, and the personal struggles of many through the hidden burdens of grief, illness, loneliness, addiction, or fear. Into all of this international, local, and personal conflict, Easter speaks with a clear and unshakable simplicity. It proclaims that suffering does not have the last word. The last word belongs to God, and His Word is life.
The Gospel accounts of the Resurrection are full of tenderness and triumph. That first Easter morning begins in grief and bewilderment. Mary Magdalene stands weeping. The Disciples are lost and afraid. The risen Lord comes to them all with peace. He calls Mary by name and shows His wounds to the Apostles. He breathes His Spirit upon them, and they are revived in faith, hope, and love. The Lord comes to us and the world in the very same today. He calls out to the searching and broken hearted, to those struggling, afraid, or regretful; to those wanting guidance and courage for the road ahead. He calls out and offers His wounded hands to hold. Let us place our hands into His, always.
It is my privilege on behalf of Fr. Tadeusz, Deacon Brian, and our Parish Pastoral Councils to say words of thanks and appreciation to all who make life in our Parish vibrant and faithful. Many take an interest in all that is celebrated and organised and support us weekly. We are thankful for this involvement and support. Everything done and given makes a significant difference. Thank you for your presence and generosity.
We thank our Sacristans, Readers, Eucharistic Ministers; Choirs, Cantors, Organists and Musicians; Church Carers, Collectors, Counters; Secretaries, Parish Website design and updating, Finance & Building Committees, Child Protection Officers; Baptismal Teams, Prayer Groups, Parish Faith Representatives, Alpha Team; Cemetery/Church Grounds keepers. To them and to all we say, “Thank You.”
May the joy of the Resurrection bless you and your families. May the Risen Lord grant peace to our troubled world, consolation to the suffering, strength to the weary, and courage to all who seek to follow Him. May God bless us all this Easter. ALLELUIA.
Fr. Richard