In today’s reading from Acts, we hear St. Peter stand boldly before the people, proclaiming the truth of Jesus Christ-crucified and risen. Not long before, Peter had been afraid, even denying that he knew the Lord. Yet now, filled with the Holy Spirit, he speaks with clarity and conviction: This Jesus, whom they rejected, has been raised up by God, and “of that we are all witnesses.” It is a powerful reminder that God does not call the perfect, He transforms the willing. The Resurrection is not merely an event of the past; it is the living reality that continues to embolden ordinary people like Peter and like us to bear witness in our own time. When we open ourselves to the Spirit, fear gives way to courage, and doubt is replaced with faith.
The Gospel account of the road to Emmaus offers us a deeply personal image of how the risen Christ walks with us, even when we do not recognize Him. The disciples are burdened, confused, and disheartened, yet Jesus draws near, listens to them, and gently opens the Scriptures to reveal God’s plan. It is only in the breaking of the bread that their eyes are opened, and they recognize Him. This is the Mass! How often this mirrors our own journey. We may feel lost or discouraged, yet Christ is never absent. He is present in His Word, in the Eucharist, and in the quiet moments of our daily lives. As a parish family, may we ask for the grace to recognize Him more clearly, to feel our hearts burning within us, and to go forth, as the disciples did, sharing the good news with renewed joy and hope.
This coming Sunday, April 26, we will have a unique parish event. It is a presentation on planning for the end of life. Not something everyone wants to think about, but after recent events in my life and the loss of several priest friends, I think making sure our affairs are in order if something would happen is very necessary. This is an informational discussion and presentation on all aspects of planning for the end. No pressure, just info. Funeral home planning, funeral Mass planning, planned giving opportunities, wills, and sacramental discussion for end of life. I am hoping that people of all ages will attend and learn more, but especially if you don’t have any aspect of this mapped out. The event will be right after the 9 a.m. Mass on Sunday, April 26 in the Parish Hall. There will be brunch refreshments and presentations. Please RSVP by calling the parish office no later than April 22, so we have enough food, materials, and seating set up. Please take this opportunity.
Thank you to many of you who reached out with cards and gifts for Father Ken and myself for Easter. Your generosity and words of encouragement and prayers are so greatly appreciated! Thank you so much!
Father Arisman