From the Desk of Father Romeo Velos – EASTER

The word “Easter” comes from Old English, meaning simply the “East.” The sun which rises in the East, bringing light, warmth, and hope, is a symbol for the Christian of the rising Christ, who is the true Light of the world. The Paschal Candle used during the Easter Vigil is a central symbol of this divine light, which is Christ. It is kept near the ambo throughout Easter Time and lit for all liturgical celebrations. “If Christ has not been raised, then empty is our preaching; empty, too, is your faith.” (1 Cor 15:14) The resurrection of Jesus is the foundation of our faith. His resurrection is our resurrection too. His glory is the promise of our glory. He will change our lowly bodies to conform with His glorified body. The witness of the Apostles is authentic because their lives were changed through their first hand experience of encountering the Risen Christ. They also changed the lives of others by persevering in their faith, service and love. We are Easter people because Jesus defeated evil, sin and death forever on the Cross. Light dispels darkness and darkness cannot stand in the light. The Risen Christ is the light of the new day. He brings healing to our wounded humanity and restores wholeness to our fragment and fallen world. We are Easter people because we share in the victory of Jesus. He has completed the work of redemption. He defeated the ultimate power of evil by the power of God’s love. God’s love is the only true power because love is eternal. The Holy Spirit that is poured in our hearts is also our aid in times of need. He is the Spirit of the Father and the Son and the love that connects the Father and the Son. He is the agent of new life, transformation, rebirth and regeneration. We are the temples of the Holy Spirit and therefore we are the new dwelling place of God. We are empowered to participate in the life of God thanks to the work of Jesus and the power of the Holy Spirit. Easter therefore is the time when we allow God to purify, recreate and empower us so that like Jesus we continue to work for the well being of others. We are called to be agents and conduits of His grace and love into the world. His work of redemption is completed but our journey is not completed yet. That is why, He sent us the Holy Spirit, the promise of His eternal presence. Happy Easter