EASTER 2020
Who would have thought that most of us will be celebrating Easter in the confines of our homes! Still others are confined with people other than relatives or friends to hospitals, rehabilitation facilities, nursing homes or institutions. The Apostles spent their first Easter in fear with the doors locked. They, like us, did not know what to think. They had heard Truth. They had seen the blind and the lame cured and the dead raised. All this and more they heard and saw. Yet their faith was shaken. Perhaps we are very much like them, confused and fearful. For believers and unbelievers, Jesus conquered death. He lived our life, suffered and died. On the third day, He rose. He came to his friends though the doors were locked. He came and brought them "peace." They were incredulous for sheer joy. He was real, not a ghost. They saw nail marks and the wound in His side. He ate with them, spent time with them and then sent them forth to live and preach the Good News. So it has been for over two thousand years in good times and as now, in times of crisis. Even though this Easter we may not be gathering as a community to celebrate our faith as an Easter people or as friends and relatives rejoicing in the coming of Spring, we can use this time of grace to encourage each other by our compassion and love. May we continue to be caring and kind to our neighbors, especially the elderly, and for those who have no one else but you. Unlike the Apostles on that first Easter, we need not give in to doubts and fears. Jesus is Risen! Indeed, He is Risen! His peace is real, despite this crisis! Easter Blessings.
| Father John D. Terzano |