Easter Blessings

Dear Parishioners,

The Easter Triduum is the apex of the liturgical year. Easter Sunday is followed by the 50-day Easter season. This can be a consoling part of the year. We plan to have many wonderful celebrations this spring.

Presently, our Easter joy is tempered by the fact that a war is raging in the Middle East. Bombs are falling in the places where the stories of the Bible took place. Once again mothers wail at the death of their children as they did for the death of the Holy Innocents in Bethlehem when Christ was born. People are living through their personal passion as innocent civilians die who are caught up in the violence.

Many American families hold their breath as military personnel from our country are in harm’s way. All of this is very much on our mind as we mark these Easter days.

Despite the international turmoil we are to be people of hope. We sing hallelujah in the face of the struggles that the world is going through. When Jesus encountered His disciples after His Resurrection He said, “Peace be with you.” Or, He said, “Do not be afraid.” He says the same thing to every generation of believers.

May His words be consoling for you as we pray during Easter. If you have not been to Sacred Heart recently, Easter might be a good time to renew your faith practice. Perhaps this will remind you of the faith that sustains us even in the most difficult times.

Blessings,
Fr. Mark