As we live longer and deeper into the pandemic that has gripped our globe, we find ourselves relying more and more on our faith. It is easy to grow complacent when it comes to spiritual growth (yes, even for those of us in ministry). With the uncertainty of the past few months, we find ourselves reflecting almost daily on Easter Sunday and the promise of new life revealed on that day.
None of us will emerge from this period of history unscathed. That may be the only certainty we have right now. Whether you find yourself grieving the loss of a loved one or a job, supporting a child through the challenge of distance learning, encouraging a 2020 graduate, waiting with someone whose sacramental initiation has been delayed, caring for the home-bound, or struggling with food insecurity - all situations that would test you under normal circumstances - a common and collective thread to carry you through this pandemic is
hope.
This month's reflection speaks to the value of
Finding Hope. New life is emerging all around us. Babies are still being born. Spring buds continue their movement toward flowering. Individuals are reaching out to help others with their whole selves. Communities are pulling together. While the Easter Season will come to a calendar close on May 31st this year, its
hope and promise of new life endures forever.
We are an Easter People, and our faith calls us during this time to repeatedly revisit that promise of Easter Sunday. It is one that provides the path through these days when darkness could easily prevail. It is one that provides the light. It is one that calls us to realize the spark of divinity that exists within each of us, regardless of external circumstances.
We encourage you to find ways to keep sharing and listening and finding
hope. We implore you to take good care of your whole self. We join you in
hope-filled prayer.
