Reflection
As long as the sun comes over the hills, scatters the darkness and fills the world with light; as long as the fields get green again and the primroses and violets return; as long as the trees fill up again with leaves, there is hope for us and for the world. So come, let us follow the footsteps of spring, for the snow has melted and life is awakening from its sleep and wanders through the hills and valleys. Come, let us ascend the heights and gaze upon the waving greenness of the plains below. O come, let us rejoice on this Easter Day, for death has folded up his tent and gone away.
Easter
On the third day after his Crucifixion and Death, after the Shabbat, at dawn on the first day of the week, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary went to the tomb of Jesus. They found the tomb empty and the stone rolled away and they proclaimed: “He is not here; he has risen, just as he said….”. (Mt. 28:6)..
Easter is linked to the Jewish Passover and the Exodus from Egypt recorded in the Old Testament through the Last Supper, sufferings, and crucifixion of Jesus that preceded the resurrection. According to the New Testament, Jesus gave the Passover meal a new meaning, as in the upper room during the Last Supper he prepared himself and his disciples for his death. He identified the unleavened bread and cup of wine as his body soon to be sacrificed and his blood soon to be shed.
The Resurrection of Christ is the fruit of his perfect obedience to God’s will. St Paul write: “He humbled Himself and became obedient unto death, even death on a cross. Therefore God has highly exalted him and bestowed on him the name which is above every other name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven, on earth and under the earth and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord to the glory of God the Father.” (Phil 2:8-11).
Easter Greetings
Fr Brian and the Salesian Community would like to wish the Parishioners of St James’ a very happy and joy-filled Easter. May the hope of the risen Lord fill your lives with everything you need and touch your families with joy.
Gift Aid
If you are a tax payer, please consider joining the gift aid scheme. The parish can claim 25p from the taxman for every £1 you donate. Please see Bob if you wish to join.