At the start of this Lenten season, Pope Francis reminded us that during the Easter Vigil, we celebrate this light of Christ that we all carry with hope into a world of darkness and uncertainty.
Just two weeks after Pope Francis delivered this faith-filled message, we heard the horrific news about the Parkland, Florida school massacre where 17 people lost their lives. This new tragedy came against a backdrop of news about escalating violence and fear, political tensions and ongoing natural disasters. More personally, we see friends and family who have had their spirits dampened by illness, bereavement, family breakdown, violence, addiction, and unemployment.
Easter is meant to leave us with a very different sense of the present and the future. It offers a reality that is full of joy. Easter proclaims that fear and terror and death are not the end of the story – be not afraid! Just as Jesus is resurrected, this Easter, let us rise above the darkness in our world and share the light of Christ with others, and bring hope to a world in despair.
Wishing you and your family a joyful and blessed Easter season.
Sister Barbara Jean Donovan
General Minister
