I am writing this on Good Friday. In the account of the Passion of Our Lord and Saviour we hear of darkness over the land. We all encounter darkness in our lives and it takes many forms, sin, broken relationships, bereavement, isolation, sickness.

There are moments in all of our lives when our hearts and souls cry out using the words of Jesus on the cross, "Eli, Eli, lama sabachthani? "My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?". Why does Jesus use these words of anguish? I like to think that they are words of reassurance to us where Jesus shows us that he knows, understands, and joins himself to, the darkest moments of our lives when we feel lost and forsaken. Yet we know that this moment of crisis for Jesus is not the end, a few short days later he bursts the chains of death and despair and rises triumphant. He very much desires and invites us to join us to his victory. His resurrection is our invitation to join him in the glory of the life of the Holy Trinity. In the midst of our lives and difficulties this promise of glory can feel like something far away and distant in the context of our day to day circumstances but it is assured. The light of Christ is with us.

When Jesus is with his friends after his resurrection he says two things "peace be with with you" and "do not be afraid". I offer these words of the Lord to you today. May you always hear the reassurance of Jesus in your hearts and souls.

A very happy and blessed Easter to you all.

Please be assured of my prayers for you and your intentions during this holy time. 

Fr Chris