We all know that Jesus speaks of himself as the Good Shepherd.  We hear him do it again in today’s Gospel.  But, what do you know about shepherding sheep?  If you’re like me, probably very little.  One of the interesting things to know about shepherding sheep, as opposed to herding cattle, is that, unlike cattle, who are best moved along from behind, sheep prefer to be led.  And, in our Lord’s time, almost all families had a little flock of sheep, along with a plot of land where they would […]

SECOND SUNDAY OF EASTER

Shalom: peace be with you!  This greeting appears three times in today’s Gospel.  When Jesus offered his peace to his frightened disciples, he was not just offering a pleasantry; he was offering his mercy.  You will recall that the English word “mercy” derives from the Latin word “misericordia.”  The second half of that word – “cordia” sounds familiar, doesn’t it?  Our English word – “cardiac” – comes from that word, speaking of things pertaining to the heart.  But, when we think of heart, besides that vital organ, […]

Alleluia!  Do you know what that word means?  We have purposely avoided using it throughout Lent and now we proclaim it over and over again.  As you will read in my Parish Bulletin article, it’s a combination of two Hebrew words: “hallelu” – the plural imperative of “hallel” – which means “praise” and “yah” the first half of the Hebrew word for God: “Yahweh.”  So, it literally means, “Everyone, praise God!”  And, indeed, we praise God in a special way today as we gather on this Easter Sunday to celebrate […]

After the journey of Lent, after walking with Christ through this Holy Week, tonight we gather, enveloped in light and music, to celebrate that we do not have to be afraid. He has been raised just as he said – Alleluia!

Our Scripture readings tonight are a journey through salvation history. In every reading, we hear more details, we gain more insight into this God of might who created all things and who looked at us and found us very good. We are reminded of God’s power as he frees […]