He is Risen!

by Peggy Colf, Executive Assistant  |  04/05/2026  |  This Sunday's Reading

Today we begin the Easter Octave, eight days of unbroken celebration, each treated as though they are one and the same day. During this time, we are invited into a deep reflection and joy over the life-giving mysteries of Christ’s triumph over death. Easter and the Octave are not just remembrances of a past event but give us a more profound, personal encounter with the Risen Christ. This is a time of new beginnings and divine grace that offers spiritual renewal and deeper connection with our faith. On Holy Saturday, at the Easter Vigil we here about the creation of the world by God in six days.

God creates light, the sky, land, seas, vegetation, animals and humans and then rests on the seventh day. Through the wisdom of God all creation comes about. We hear that the word of God is flawless and guides us with fairness. We also hear about the destruction of the Egyptian army because with God’s help Moses parts the Red Sea. We also hear about turning away from our wicked ways and to seek God’s mercy and we hear about restoration and renewal that we should follow God’s commandments and live in the right way. You will also hear how Mary Magdalene and the other Mary found the tomb of Jesus empty and were told by an angel that Jesus had risen. This in itself was astonishing because in the time of Jesus no one seemed to believe things that a woman would say, but even Jesus told them to go and tell so some doubted their words. So of course, they had to go and see for themselves. When Peter confirmed this, he started to proclaim the good new of Jesus Christ, his life, teachings, death and His resurrection. These readings show us the goodness, power and saving work of God throughout history. They also show us the importance of faith and trust in God, that we should dye to sin and be raised to new life through baptism. There are several themes that are significant today. The cornerstone of Easter, the resurrection, a time of renewal and rebirth, redemption, the sacrifice on the cross, victory over sin and death, Eternal Life, Joy and Celebration. These and a few more weave together to form the richness of Easter. Everything begins with God. God speaks, creates and brings order out of darkness. Light, land animals and human beings all com into existence through God’s care. We humans receive a special place in creation, and we are made in His image and entrusted with the care of the world. God looks at everything and says it is very good. Take the time today to notice that the tomb is empty and Jesus is risen. We are witnesses to the risen Christ just like the first disciples we are called to believe and to share the good news. Let us rejoice and be glad this Easter, as we celebrate the triumph of Jesus over sin and death and may we give thanks to God for the gift of new life. (PC)