A very happy Easter to you all! Alleluia! Praise the Lord! We celebrate the greatest feast in the Church's year. Easter means hope. The theme of Easter is joy. Down the centuries, writers, artists, poets and painters have sought to capture it all. Our love of life helps us rejoice with a sense of relief at the story of the risen Lord. The God of surprises continues to surprise. He continues to be a God of love, life, truth and beauty.

The ceremonies of Holy Week have a special place in the life of the Church. They bring the events that led up to Christ's death and resurrection alive. Being part of the Lord's Supper was to experience the life of Christianity, the life of sharing, communion, surrender, faith and truth. Immediately after the crucifixion there was silence and fear.

The news that Christ had risen was at first received with caution followed by celebration. The story electrified his followers. It was a transforming event. Yes. Jesus had so often promised life! Now there was a series of celebrations.

The Emmaus story (Luke Ch. 24) ended with a meal, Eucharist and renewed faith.
'He vanished from their sight,
but left the Eucharist;
a sure sign that no disappointment is final,
that there is always hope,
and the possibility of new life'.

Jesus later appears to the disciples and says, "Peace be with you". 'Shalom', promising spiritual tranquillity and emotional security. Having showed them his hands and feet he said, "Have you anything to eat?" Later as they are coming towards the shore following a night's fishing he has a fire ready and says, "Come and have breakfast". The greatest sign of celebration and unity in a family or community is a shared meal. It sustains and builds relationships. His glorified humanity embraces all that we are.

What holds community together is Eucharist. All of us are invited to be ministers of the Eucharist, ministering Christ to each other in all that we do and say. As members of Christ's body we all have a part to play in the life of the community.

– Fr. Jimmy