Archives for March 2021

This greeting is heard and spoken many times on this holy day. Some people will acclaim, “Christ is risen!”

There are two dimensions of this great feast for us as followers of the Risen Christ who live in this twenty-first century. The first is the reality of Jesus being raised from the dead. He is given the status of “Lord” as the Risen One. His humanity is completely transformed and glorified in this wonderful mystery. Our Easter faith boldly proclaims this reality. The second part of what we celebrate is indicated in the angel’s message to the women at the empty tomb. They, and we, are to go and tell others about this glorious truth. We, like the early disciples, are witnesses of what Christ has done for us and what he continues to do for as the Risen One.

Pope Francis reminds us that we are missionary disciples. Part of our identity as followers of Christ is that we are called and sent to proclaim the Good News by our words, our actions, and a virtuous way of life. How is this so for you? 

Today we commemorate the entrance of Christ into Jerusalem to accomplish his paschal mystery for our salvation.  We also hear the Passion Narrative according to Mark.  The jubilant procession and the somber passion are put side by side.  This is reflected in the title for this Sunday—Palm Sunday of the Passion of the Lord.

We are preparing to celebrate the very heart of our faith. By dying, Christ has destroyed the power of our death, and by rising restored our life.  This Holy Week is the most important time of the liturgical year.

Come to celebrate as many of the Triduum liturgies as you can. Spend some time prayerfully reading Mark’s Passion Narrative  (chapters 14-15).  Notice how you are drawn deeper into this saving mystery.