News - April 2021 RSS Feed

The Second Reading for today’s Mass gives us much food for thought. In the First letter of Saint John, the author tells us: “Children, let us love not in word or speech but in deed and truth” (1 John 3:18) A little further we hear Saint John tells us: “We should believe in the name of His Son, Jesus the Christ, and love one another as He commanded us (1 John 3:23-24). A quite simple, but challenging statement. Whether with family, colleagues, or in church communities, we are called to love one another. This requires us to be open and willing to reach out to reconcile. Our communities of faith are signs of unity with Christ. Jesus says “I am the vine—you are the branches (John 15:5). The vine gives life to the branches. Jesus, as the vine, gives life to us who are the branches.

Today, on this Fourth Sunday of Easter, we celebrate Good Shepherd Sunday, recalling Jesus’ promise to protect us from harm, to rescue us when we stray, and to guide us home at the end of the day. Ultimately, Jesus laid down His life for us, as He told His disciples that He would do. We come here with worries and concerns on our mind. We take comfort in knowing that Jesus, the Good Shepherd watches over us, providing comfort, protection, guidance, and above all—salvation.

We are an Easter people. Whatever our circumstances may be, or the circumstances of the world; as we gather to celebrate the Eucharist, we gather in joy because our Lord truly rose from the dead— conquering death and bringing the promise of eternal life to all.

Grief can be a very lonely and isolating experience.  Everyone who loses a loved one or experiences a major transition in life may experience sadness, anger, and loneliness.  Being in the company of others who understand because they are also grieving can offer comfort and hope. A grief support group can provide a place where grieving people share their stories, and listen to others' stories, including the story of God and God’s love.  The next meeting will be held on Wednesday, May 12th at 10:00 a.m. in the Lacour Center.  If you are interested in attending or would like more information, please contact Cheryl Entremont.  Let us be companions on your journey!      Social distancing guidelines will be observed and wearing a mask is recommended. 

As we continue to celebrate the Easter season, all three Scripture Readings show the transformative power of belief in Jesus’ resurrection. Saint John tell us that we become children of God through this belief. Thomas acknowledges Jesus as Lord and God in the Gospel. The Apostles, according to our first reading, go on to create an ideal community by proclaiming Jesus’ resurrection in Jerusalem.

Alleluia! Alleluia! Alleluia! The Lord is Risen! Yes, Happy Easter to all! We are truly able to celebrate as a faith community the belief that Jesus rose triumphantly from the grave. Last year, celebrations of Easter were at a bare minimum. With the world-wide pandemic, church services were limited to “livestream.” Today, we are able to gather in our church building to celebrate the mystery of our faith: Christ has died! Christ is Risen! Christ will come again!