2025 Lenten Reflection Booklet

THE2025BI SHOPI RETON LENTEN REFLECTI ON BOOKLET W RI TTEN BYTHEBIFACULTY& STAFF

The 2025 Bishop Ireton Lenten Reflection Booklet Written by the BI Faculty and Staff

Thank you to all the contributors. May God bless you as you read and reflect on His word this Lenten season.

Opening Message

By Kathleen McNutt, Head of School Dear Bishop Ireton Community, Welcome as we embark on this journey of Lent and prepare for the glorious feast of Easter!

Each year, the liturgical calendar becomes our guide, reminding us that we must look beyond our daily tasks and commitments to focus on our relationship with the Lord. That is not an easy thing to do! Even in the academic world, we can get buried in instructional planning, grading and calendar preparations, and we can let extracurricular activities and professional or social obligations supersede our time spent on spiritual growth. Let us join together this Lent as a school community, using the next forty days as a time of reflection, a time for renewal, and a time to grow deeper in our faith, accompanying Christ in His passion, death, and resurrection.

I share my gratitude for the wonderful team that prepared the reflections in this booklet and to everyone in the Bishop Ireton community who is joining us in prayer. As educators and mentors, the Bishop Ireton faculty has the unique opportunity to model faith and compassion for our students. May these reflections serve as a source of inspiration or an invitation to pause, pray more intentionally, and embrace the spiritual disciplines of fasting and almsgiving. We are blessed to be on this Lenten journey together, seeking to grow in our spiritual lives while also fostering a Christ-centered environment for those we teach.

We hope these reflections provide just one more opportunity for contemplation during your observance of Lent, Holy Week and Easter Sunday.

Advance Always and Live Jesus,

Kathleen McNutt, M.Ed Head of School

Opening Lenten Reflection

By Father Noah Morey, Chaplain I have a love/hate relationship with Lent. Love, because it beckons me to respond more generously to the call of Jesus to repentance and interior conversion. It provides a welcome, annual opportunity to curb excesses, to deepen my friendship with Jesus through prayer, fasting, and almsgiving, and to recommit to spiritual reading and acts of charity. Hate, on the other hand, because it is so hard to say “no” to myself, and because my appetites seek immediate satisfaction. Change is hard, and conversion is harder. Once I get into the rhythm of this penitential season, however, I don’t want it to end, because I feel better physically and sometimes spiritually too. But when Easter comes, boy, am I ready to celebrate the resurrection of Jesus!

There are at least two human activities that are always worthwhile and after we do them, we are pleased with ourselves and consider the time well spent. Yet, the next day, when it comes time to do these things, we face apathy and put off these activities. We know we will feel better afterwards, and yet we still delay. These activities are prayer and physical exercise. So we need to push through the initial apathy, striving to persevere through the challenging times. The Bible frequently uses physical exercise as a metaphor for the spiritual life. Here, I will highlight a few considerations on prayer during our Lenten journey.

We easily underestimate the power of prayer, because we do not always see the fruits. Prayer, however, has the power to change minds and hearts, even to alter the course of history, through the boundless grace of God. Prayer is a conversation with God, essential to our peace of mind and growth in holiness.

We do not pray to change God’s mind. Rather, prayer changes us by attuning us to hear and follow the promptings of the Holy Spirit. There are many different ways to pray—in fact, the entire fourth part of the Catechism of the Catholic Church addresses prayer (#2558ff), centered on the Our Father. One specific type of prayer is called “intercession”—praying on behalf of others. Jesus often prayed for others, including His persecutors (Lk 23:34), Peter (Lk 22:32), the apostles (Jn 17:9), and all of us (Jn 17:20-26). The Catechism states, “Since Abraham, intercession—asking on behalf of another has been characteristic of a heart attuned to God's mercy” (CCC2635). The early Christian writer, Tertullian, wrote, “Prayer is the one thing that can conquer God.” Thus, I invite everyone to pray daily and consciously for our families and those in need. The prayers of teachers for their students are especially powerful. For this reason, I encourage you to pray earnestly for our students by name each day, not just for their physical and psychological well being, but also for their spiritual protection and growth in holiness. Just as we physically lift up children when they are young, so now we lift them up in prayer to God, no matter their age. Perhaps we could share how the good news of Jesus has affected our lives, and the faith stories from our own families. We can be a source of blessing and an example of holiness to our spiritual “children.” God can do great things in us and through us, but He needs our cooperation and our docility. As we proceed through this annual “campaign of Christian service,” let us dedicate ourselves to intercessory prayer, especially for our students, that we will grow in holiness together during this sacred season.

Simplicity in Lenten Practices Brother Dan Wisniewski, O.S.F.S. As we approach Lent, we often think of the three practices we are called to embrace during the forty days of the liturgical season: prayer, alms, and fasting. These acts are often summed up in a question like “What are you giving up for Lent?” Sometimes, in the aftermath of the abundance of Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s, we embrace an opportunity to avoid sweets and favorite foods. Alternatively, we may seek to do small acts of good; I recall in grade school having a Lenten calendar on which I could check off daily acts of sacrifice along my journey through Lent: help around the house without being asked, say a kind word to someone in class, and the like. All of these actions are tangible, concrete, and measurable, to help us see our progress in Lenten practices. But, there is something less visible in what we do during Lent.

In reflecting on my recent trip to India for a visit to the Oblate academy and seminary there, I pondered on the flight home about the differences between my home and theirs. In a word, there was a simplicity I experienced there which challenged me, and upon which I continue to reflect. The simplicity was not a purgation of beauty, happiness, or festivity in communal prayer and meals; rather, it was a centeredness in purpose and presence, demonstrated in an abundant hospitality and delight in the people I met. My personal renewal in this Salesian contemplative core of the Oblates of St. Francis de Sales is rooted in the “little virtue” of simplicity which our patron discussed in a spiritual conference with the Sisters of the Visitation: Simplicity is nothing else than an act of pure and simple charity, having one only aim and end, which is to acquire the love of God, and our soul is simple when in all that we do or desire we have no other aim.

Whatever activity in which we are engaged, it should be done for the love of God, and in so doing, we move closer to abiding in the Heart of Jesus.

Such simplicity may be evident in acts of penance, fasting, and similar tasks we perform during Lent. The bishop-saint continues: Simplicity…seeks nothing but the pure love of God, which is nowhere to be found so certainly as in self-mortification. In proportion to the growth of that mortification will be our nearer approach to the abode where we shall find His divine love.

So, I may give up chocolate or soda during Lent – a self-mortification of denying myself a sweet treat; or, maybe I challenge myself to take time to visit or call a lonely neighbor – a self-mortification of my personal time given over for another. But, Francis reminds me to do such self-mortifications for the love of God and not as a means to build up my own ego (“Look at what I can do!”) or conduct a prayerful diet (“Let me shed those extra Christmas pounds.”). By simplicity, I am called to simplify, even purify, my intention of whatever prayer, alms, or fasting I may do during Lent. With no other intention that to love God and seek the ability to rest in His Love, we in turn may also find ourselves freed of so much more on our spiritual journey to be united with Him. In his letter to the Galatians, St. Paul writes, it is no longer I who live, but it is Christ who lives in me (2:19-20). Likewise, Francis de Sales calls us to look upon the cross and follow the example of Jesus: Father, into Thy hands I commend My Spirit (Luke 23:46). In our Lenten practices, may we learn simplicity so we may seek nothing more than to rest in God’s Love, which in turn will allow us to put aside the cares and worries which come our way each day. With these scriptural references in mind, may our patron’s words be our prayerful aim:

Then all the anxieties of our heart will cease—anxieties proceeding from desires suggested by self-love and by tenderness for ourselves, which makes us secretly so eager in the pursuit of our own satisfaction and perfection. Embarked, then, in the exercises of our vocation, carried along by the wind of this simple and loving confidence, without being aware, we shall make the very greatest progress; without moving, we shall advance; and without stirring from our place, we shall draw nearer and nearer to home, as do those who sail on the high seas with favorable winds. Then, too, every possible event and variety of accident which may happen will be received calmly and peacefully.

May God be blessed!

The First Sunday of Lent First Reading Deuteronomy 26: 4-10 The priest shall then take the basket from your hands and set it in front of the altar of the LORD, your God. Then you shall declare in the presence of the LORD, your God, “My father was a refugee Aramean who went down to Egypt with a small household and lived there as a resident alien. But there he became a nation great, strong and numerous. When the Egyptians maltreated and oppressed us, imposing harsh servitude upon us, we cried to the LORD, the God of our ancestors, and the LORD heard our cry and saw our affliction, our toil and our oppression. Then the LORD brought us out of Egypt with a strong hand and outstretched arm, with terrifying power, with signs and wonders, and brought us to this place, and gave us this land, a land flowing with milk and honey. Now, therefore, I have brought the first fruits of the products of the soil which you, LORD, have given me.” You shall set them before the LORD, your God, and you shall bow down before the LORD, your God.

Responsorial Psalm Psalm 91: 1-2, 10-11, 12-13, 14-15 You who dwell in the shelter of the Most High, who abide in the shade of the Almighty, Say to the LORD, “My refuge and fortress, my God in whom I trust.”

No evil shall befall you, no affliction come near your tent.

For he commands his angels with regard to you, to guard you wherever you go.

With their hands they shall support you, lest you strike your foot against a stone.

You can tread upon the asp and the viper, trample the lion and the dragon.

Because he clings to me I will deliver him; because he knows my name I will set him on high.

He will call upon me and I will answer; I will be with him in distress; I will deliver him and give him honor.

Reflection

By Wesley Bergen In my more honest moments, passages like today’s Old Testament reading and Psalm cause me a bit of interpretive grief. Why should I, a person in 21st century America, try to stir up feelings of thankfulness in response to changes in the labor policy of a long-defunct Egyptian kingdom? I can’t even pretend to find this relatable.

Worse, in response to the blessings God gave to the Israelites, part of me wants to say, “All well and good for them, but where is my promised land?” God has not led me out of any particularly difficult material circumstances, nor would any honest financial advisor describe my net worth as a “land flowing with milk and honey.” Again, not especially relatable.

Worst of all, I can’t say I am free from ‘the Egyptians’ in the metaphorical sense taken by many of the church fathers—as enslavement to the worldly passions, bondage under temptations to sin, servitude to the promptings of demons. I am, I admit, not a saint.

I trust that I’m not alone in this interpretive difficulty. Sure, I could do my best to conjure up a false sense of gratitude for an ancient Egyptian labor policy, for modest material blessings, for a transient awareness of the grace offered to me—but what good is a dishonest religiosity or false piety?

Perhaps these passages aren’t about rejoicing in our blessings after all; the religion of the crucifixion rarely calls us to an easy self-satisfaction. Deuteronomy 26:4 begins, “The priest shall then take the basket from your hands.”

What ‘basket’ do we offer when we feel there is nothing to give? Well, in the daily office of prayer, Psalm 51 reminds us: “Sacrifice to God is a contrite spirit; a heart that is broken and humbled God will not despise.” A contrite heart is always something we can and should offer to God—indeed, humility is the necessary foundation upon which the whole tower of spiritual life is built, as the 5th century monastic John Cassian reminds us.

More encouraging still, Deuteronomy 26:10 speaks directly to each of us: “I have brought the first-fruits of the soil which you, Lord, have given me.” Regardless of our contexts, each of us has been given a ‘spiritual field’ to tend. For some of us, this field is large and grand; for others, it is small and tender—but God’s abundant love extends to all mankind.

This, then, is relatable: I have been given my ‘spiritual field’ to tend—my family, my friends, my work, my talents, my struggles, my successes. Especially in the season of Great Lent, may I always remember to bring the ‘basket’ of my life’s ‘first-fruits’ to the altar of Christ.

“O eternal God and Ruler of all creation,​ You have allowed me to reach this hour.​ Forgive the sins I have committed this day by word,​ deed or thought.​ Purify me, O Lord,​ from every spiritual and physical stain.​ Grant that I may rise from this sleep to glorify You​ by my deeds throughout my entire lifetime,​ and that I be victorious over every spiritual​ and physical enemy.​ Deliver me, O Lord,​ from all vain thoughts and from evil desires,​ for yours is the kingdom,​ and the power, and the glory,​ Father, Son, and Holy Spirit,​ now and ever, and forever.”

--Evening Prayer of St. Makarios the Great

The First Sunday of Lent Second Reading Romans 10: 8-13 But what does it say? “The word is near you, in your mouth and in your heart” (that is, the word of faith that we preach), for, if you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For one believes with the heart and so is justified, and one confesses with the mouth and so is saved. For the scripture says, “No one who believes in him will be put to shame.” For there is no distinction between Jew and Greek; the same Lord is Lord of all, enriching all who call upon him. For “everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.”

Reflection

By Ryan Fannon There is so much to take away from this profound reading. It's hard to know where to start. I will begin with, "believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead."

The foundation of our faith is that Jesus suffered and died on the cross and rose from the dead. Thus allowing us to all be saved and have the opportunity to experience eternal life in heaven.

Over 2000 years later, the life of Jesus not only continues to inspire us, but leaves many of us speechless, completely amazed at all that occurred during his earthly life of just over 30 years. How could the once blind see? The deaf hear again? The sickest of all be completely healed?

It was Jesus, through the strength of God the Father, that made these miracles occur. And they still remain beyond our earthly imagination and comprehension and remind us that "Lord is Lord of all, enriching all who call upon him" still to this day.

Yet so many people struggle with their faith today. We must remember this earthly life we're experiencing now is just a very small amount of time; A tiny, tiny fraction compared to the eternal life to come.

God empowers us to stay strong in our faith no matter how many difficult obstacles in life come our way.

Doubt, fear and uncertainty fracture or even destroy many people's faith. Yet, God continues to challenge us everyday to never lose our faith.

It also often feels like we live in a world where everyone wants an answer right now to why things are a certain way. Yet we should find peace and unyielding strength in the unknown of this lifetime we live today. For it is these unknown days and nights of our earthly life that God challenges us to stay rooted in our faith, look for the best in others, share a kind word and try our best to remain humble in an ever changing world of uncertainty.

As the Apostle Paul said when reflecting on his life of faith and perseverance and that we should all strive for, “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.”

For the only true certainty we have on this earth along with the profound gift of love God gives us to share with our family, friends, and our faith community is that God is with us today, tomorrow, and forever. As the end of this powerful reading says, "everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved."

We pray and ask you God for your continued blessings upon our Bishop Ireton community as we remain steadfast in putting our ultimate trust and faith in you God, the Universal Savior. Amen.

The First Sunday of Lent Gospel Reading Luke 4: 1-13 Filled with the holy Spirit, Jesus returned from the Jordan and was led by the Spirit into the desert for forty days, to be tempted by the devil. He ate nothing during those days, and when they were over he was hungry. The devil said to him, “If you are the Son of God, command this stone to become bread.”

Jesus answered him, “It is written, ‘One does not live by bread alone.’” Then he took him up and showed him all the kingdoms of the world in a single instant. The devil said to him, “I shall give to you all this power and their glory; for it has been handed over to me, and I may give it to whomever I wish. All this will be yours, if you worship me.” Jesus said to him in reply, “It is written: ‘You shall worship the Lord, your God, and him alone shall you serve.’” Then he led him to Jerusalem, made him stand on the parapet of the temple, and said to him, “If you are the Son of God, throw yourself down from here, for it is written: ‘He will command his angels concerning you, to guard you,’ and: ‘With their hands they will support you, lest you dash your foot against a stone.’” Jesus said to him in reply, “It also says, ‘You shall not put the Lord, your God, to the test.’” When the devil had finished every temptation, he departed from him for a time.

Reflection

By Caroline Duffy In this First Sunday of Lent, we find Jesus, moved by the Spirit, in the desert where He is tempted.

Initially I thought I would reflect on the three famous temptations of the devil, which unfortunately still work pretty well today: sensual pleasure, earthly power, glory/honor/fame. But two rather minor details jumped off the page at me for some reason. First, I was struck by the fact that the Spirit is referenced twice in the opening line: “Jesus filled with the Spirit returned from the Jordan” (after His Baptism where the Spirit descended upon Him) and then He “was led by the Spirit into the desert.” Usually when I think of the Spirit I think of Pentecost – igniting the fire of faith and courage in the Apostles; or Mary being overshadowed by the Holy Spirit and Jesus conceived in her womb. I’ve always known the Holy Spirit as the Lord and Giver of Life, the Consoler, the One who sets the world ablaze – the One who graces us with “Spirit-filled moments.” I never really thought about how it was the Spirit who led Jesus into the desert… where He is tempted. Who would lead someone into the desert? How is that the work of the Consoler/Lord and Giver of Life? Aren’t deserts sterile places where things go to die? Where’s the consolation in that? And yet, that is precisely where the Spirit leads Jesus – and us! And it is exactly where we need to go this Lent. In the desert experiences of our lives, we usually meet three people: God, the devil and ourselves. And that’s why we need to go there – to get away from the endless diversions and distractions with which we anesthetize ourselves on a daily basis. We don’t really enjoy the “desert experiences” of our lives: in the desert we are stripped down, weak; we can’t run or hide from those three people, no matter how hard we try. But we need the desert so we can slowly learn to abandon our delusions of control and totally entrust ourselves to God; and through His power alone we can conquer the devil – we certainly can’t begin to do that on our own; and then when can come to true self-awareness because we see ourselves as we truly are: utterly dependent on God. Only then do we really begin to live – to live Jesus! So, blessed be the Holy Spirit, who leads us into the desert – the place where things go to die: my ego, my vices, my sins, my failings. Thank you, Holy Spirit, for this opportunity to learn how to imitate the Son in the desert by loving and trusting the Father.

The second minor detail I noticed was the last line: “When the devil had finished every temptation he departed from him for a time.” For a time. Yikes! He’s not done. He’s coming back. It’s not over. That line is a bit creepy and alarming. It can sometimes seem like the devil never leaves us alone for long. This first Sunday of Lent, we’re only a few days into our Lenten practices of prayer, fasting and almsgiving. We’re probably doing ok – for now. But he’s coming back – “prowling like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour” as St. Peter warns. But it’s alright – I’m in the desert – God is here with me, and He is all I need. I need only cling to Christ and pray the words of today’s responsorial psalm: “Be with me, Lord, when I am in trouble.” In a few short weeks, the devil will be vanquished by the One he tempted in the desert – tempted and failed. The devil is the cosmic loser. The victory of Easter Sunday is true power and glory that Christ shares with all of us. We need only cling to Him. So, I do not fear the desert experiences of my life because I am with the Lord who told his Apostles at the Last Supper: “In this world you will have trouble, but take courage, I have conquered the world.”

Prayer: Holy Spirit, thank you for this desert time of Lent – help me not to flee and fall when it gets difficult. Lead me to the Father by helping me imitate the Son. Strengthen me in times of temptation and console me when I feel weak. Help me to find my true self in this desert time, so that I may become the person You created me to be. All praise and glory to the Holy Trinity now and forever. Amen.

The Second Sunday of Lent First Reading Genesis 15: 5-12, 17-18 He took him outside and said: Look up at the sky and count the stars, if you can. Just so, he added, will your descendants be. Abram put his faith in the LORD, who attributed it to him as an act of righteousness. He then said to him: I am the LORD who brought you from Ur of the Chaldeans to give you this land as a possession. “Lord GOD,” he asked, “how will I know that I will possess it?” He answered him: Bring me a three-year-old heifer, a three-year-old female goat, a three-year-old ram, a turtledove, and a young pigeon. He brought him all these, split them in two, and placed each half opposite the other; but the birds he did not cut up. Birds of prey swooped down on the carcasses, but Abram scared them away. As the sun was about to set, a deep sleep fell upon Abram, and a great, dark dread descended upon him. When the sun had set and it was dark, there appeared a smoking fire pot and a flaming torch, which passed between those pieces. On that day the LORD made a covenant with Abram, saying: To your descendants I give this land, from the Wadi of Egypt to the Great River, the Euphrates.

The Second Sunday of Lent Responsorial Psalm Psalm 27: 1, 7-9, 13-14 The LORD is my light and my salvation; whom should I fear?

The LORD is my life’s refuge; of whom should I be afraid?

Hear my voice, LORD, when I call; have mercy on me and answer me.

“Come,” says my heart, “seek his face”; your face, LORD, do I seek!

Do not hide your face from me; do not repel your servant in anger.

You are my salvation; do not cast me off; do not forsake me, God my savior!

I believe I shall see the LORD’s goodness in the land of the living.

Wait for the LORD, take courage; be stouthearted, wait for the LORD!

Reflection

By Paige Johnson In Genesis chapter 15, God comes to Abram in a vision and says, “Do not fear,” the first of 365 times God says that in the Bible. He tells Abram, “Count the stars, if you can, for so will your descendants be.” I love it when God shows off like this; He knows Abram can’t possibly count all the stars, and can’t fathom having any descendants at all, much less millions. But they’re about to make a covenant, those two; a promise so big and sacred and permanent that it will change the relationship between God and mankind forever. God is trying to get Abram to think big-picture, and Abram is trying really hard but can’t quite do it. You can almost sense God’s affectionate eye-roll and head shake before He cranks up the drama with a smoke-and-fire animal sacrifice and a description of the Promised Land.

I think we all forget to think big-picture; we’re too worried about the little details of our lives, just like little children are too worried about which cup their juice will be in and which toy they get to play with; it’s exasperating and endearing and completely normal for their age. They are too immature to think about bigger ideas, and we adults are, too. Dinner isn’t going to make itself, and that stack of papers isn’t going to grade itself; managing our family relationships, doctor appointments and home repairs seems like a part-time job. Then, once in a while, God says, “Here, I’ll show you.” Something happens–good or bad–that makes us pause, reflect, and be grateful. Our students, too, are so busy with activities and trying to manage all those due dates in the portal, on top of the normal age-appropriate stuff that seems stupid to us, like who likes them and who is mad at them and whether their skin is breaking out that day, that they can’t see the bigger picture. I’m not sure how we show them, on top of teaching whatever our subject is, but I know we have to keep trying to show them somehow that God loves them, that there is a plan in all of this, and that even if we don’t understand it all, it’ll work out. Verse 6 of Genesis 15 is that famous one: Abram put all his faith in God, who attributed it to him as righteousness. It doesn’t say “And Abram understood everything,” or “Abram checked everything off his to-do list” or “Abram got really good grades.” But it also doesn’t say “Abram put some of his faith in God.” It says ALL. Lord, help us to see the bigger picture when we are confused or anxious. Help us to wonder at the stars, and to trust you.

The Second Sunday of Lent Second Reading Philippians 3:17-4:1 Join with others in being imitators of me, brothers, and observe those who thus conduct themselves according to the model you have in us. For many, as I have often told you and now tell you even in tears, conduct themselves as enemies of the cross of Christ. Their end is destruction. Their God is their stomach; their glory is in their “shame.” Their minds are occupied with earthly things. But our citizenship is in heaven, and from it we also await a savior, the Lord Jesus Christ. He will change our lowly body to conform with his glorified body by the power that enables him also to bring all things into subjection to himself. Therefore, my brothers, whom I love and long for, my joy and crown, in this way stand firm in the Lord, beloved.

Reflection

By Gina Garcia In this reading Paul implores the Philippians to follow his example as one who is a follower of Christ and walks in the path of righteousness. It is important to note here that Paul, formerly Saul, does not speak with arrogance or presumption. Before his conversion, Paul had been a persecutor of the Church. His words here serve as a supplication to others to follow Christ’s Church.

It is easy for us to read these words about the many who “conduct themselves as enemies of the cross of Christ’’ and feel complacent. We believe and have faith in Christ, we walk in the way of the Lord. Why should we consider that there could also be a message for us? As we continue to read we find a clear answer to that question. Paul speaks of those whose God is the pleasures of this life, whose glory is in their indulgence in excess, their sinful ways. In order to avoid their end, destruction, we must turn away from attachment to earthly desires that can distract us from God and what is truly important. This does not mean that we cannot enjoy anything material, but rather we must be careful not to give worldly things so much importance that we lose sight of what really matters. As Paul reminds us, “our citizenship is in heaven.’’ We must stand firm in our faith and remember that the comforts of this life last but a day, but our life in heaven with God will last for eternity.

The Second Sunday of Lent Gospel Reading Luke 9: 28b-36 About eight days after he said this, he took Peter, John, and James and went up the mountain to pray.

While he was praying his face changed in appearance and his clothing became dazzling white. And behold, two men were conversing with him, Moses and Elijah, who appeared in glory and spoke of his exodus that he was going to accomplish in Jerusalem. Peter and his companions had been overcome by sleep, but becoming fully awake, they saw his glory and the two men standing with him. As they were about to part from him, Peter said to Jesus, “Master, it is good that we are here; let us make three tents, one for you, one for Moses, and one for Elijah.” But he did not know what he was saying. While he was still speaking, a cloud came and cast a shadow over them, and they became frightened when they entered the cloud. Then from the cloud came a voice that said, “This is my chosen Son; listen to him.”

After the voice had spoken, Jesus was found alone. They fell silent and did not at that time tell anyone what they had seen.

Reflection

By Lonnell Battle In today’s Gospel, we hear the story of the Transfiguration of Jesus on the mountain. We have the advantage of 20/20 hindsight as we read the passage because we know that this is a part of God’s plan leading to the resurrection of Jesus on Easter, so we already understand the divinity of Jesus that Peter, John, and James are about to witness for the first time. Imagine what this moment was like for them as Jesus’ face changed and his garments became dazzling white from within! Their historical references would be the parallels to the story of Moses when he went up to Mount Sinai with three companions to speak with God. In fact, the three disciples see Moses and Elijah speaking with Jesus at the Transfiguration. The cloud that descends in both stories signal an appearance of God. Moses’ facial appearance afterwards on Mt. Sinai reflected his having seen God, but Jesus’s transfiguration is more.

He undergoes a change in his form, a transfiguration from within, thus showing his companions his divinity from within. In this way Jesus is seen as greater than Moses. God overshadows the disciples with a cloud and then speaks to Peter, John and James, telling them “This is my chosen Son,” thus confirming what they have witnessed and leaving no doubt!

Prayer God of all power, I glorify and magnify Your Name because of who You are. We thank You for the divine confirmation of Your Son whilst he was here on earth and became the radiant glory. Your Son became transfigured before His followers; His face shone like the sun and His garments became as white as light!

Lord, Your power was evident in this transfiguration and for that we thank You for being who You say You are, Amen.

The Third Sunday of Lent First Reading Exodus 3: 1-8a, 13-15 Meanwhile Moses was tending the flock of his father-in-law Jethro, the priest of Midian. Leading the flock beyond the wilderness, he came to the mountain of God, Horeb. There the angel of the LORD appeared to him as fire flaming out of a bush. When he looked, although the bush was on fire, it was not being consumed. So Moses decided, “I must turn aside to look at this remarkable sight. Why does the bush not burn up?” When the LORD saw that he had turned aside to look, God called out to him from the bush: Moses! Moses! He answered, “Here I am.” God said: Do not come near! Remove your sandals from your feet, for the place where you stand is holy ground. I am the God of your father, he continued, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob.c Moses hid his face, for he was afraid to look at God. But the LORD said: I have witnessed the affliction of my people in Egypt and have heard their cry against their taskmasters, so I know well what they are suffering. Therefore I have come down to rescue them from the power of the Egyptians and lead them up from that land into a good and spacious land, a land flowing with milk and honey, the country of the Canaanites, the Hittites, the Amorites, the Perizzites, the Girgashites, the Hivites and the Jebusites. “But,” said Moses to God, “if I go to the Israelites and say to them, ‘The God of your ancestors has sent me to you,’ and they ask me, ‘What is his name?’ what do I tell them?” God replied to Moses: I am who I am. Then he added: This is what you will tell the Israelites: I AM has sent me to you. God spoke further to Moses: This is what you will say to the Israelites: The LORD, the God of your ancestors, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob, has sent me to you.

The Third Sunday of Lent Responsorial Psalm Psalm 103: 1-2, 3-4, 6-7, 8, 11 Of David.

Bless the LORD, my soul; all my being, bless his holy name!

Bless the LORD, my soul; and do not forget all his gifts, Who pardons all your sins, and heals all your ills, Who redeems your life from the pit, and crowns you with mercy and compassion, The LORD does righteous deeds, brings justice to all the oppressed.

He made known his ways to Moses, to the Israelites his deeds.

Merciful and gracious is the LORD, slow to anger, abounding in mercy.

For as the heavens tower over the earth, so his mercy towers over those who fear him.

Reflection

By Joseph Jacobeen While Moses is in the wilderness tending sheep, he sees a remarkable sight: a burning bush that is not burning up. He says, “I must turn aside to look at this remarkable sight. Why does the bush not burn up?”

Imagine if Moses missed this sign. Imagine if he had said, “Hmm. That’s weird—a bush on fire. But I’ve got to get back to work shepherding my sheep!” Caught up in his everyday priorities, he would miss God’s incredible mission to free the Israelites from slavery in Egypt.

Luckily, Moses was in the wilderness, where there was not much to notice. Struck by the sight of the bush, Moses drew closer, opening himself up to encountering something even more remarkable—God Himself.

God is constantly saying to us: “Look, pay attention! There is something I want to show you!”

When this happens, am I aware? Do I say, “I must turn aside from my everyday preoccupations to look”?

Do I step aside in prayer to reflect on the many remarkable things in my life? I fear we are being habituated to pass by the signs God gives: Ooh, cute cat! Swipe. That’s interesting, a tragic event? Scroll. Burning bush? Swipe.

Luckily, like Moses, we are in a Lenten desert. Lent, lived well, strips aside our diversions (social media, music playing in my mind, chocolate) and leaves space to notice.

God, may I make space in my day to notice the remarkable in my life, to turn aside from distractions, and to discover you.

The Third Sunday of Lent Second Reading 1 Corinthians 10: 1-6, 10-12 I do not want you to be unaware, brothers, that our ancestors were all under the cloud and all passed through the sea, and all of them were baptized into Moses in the cloud and in the sea. All ate the same spiritual food, and all drank the same spiritual drink, for they drank from a spiritual rock that followed them, and the rock was the Christ. Yet God was not pleased with most of them, for they were struck down in the desert. These things happened as examples for us, so that we might not desire evil things, as they did. Do not grumble as some of them did, and suffered death by the destroyer. These things happened to them as an example, and they have been written down as a warning to us, upon whom the end of the ages has come. Therefore, whoever thinks he is standing secure should take care not to fall.

Reflection

By Chris Gilliland This passage from 1 Corinthians serves as a powerful reminder of the dangers of complacency and the need for constant vigilance in our faith. Paul uses the Israelites' journey through the wilderness as a tale for the Corinthians, and for us today.

The Israelites had experienced God's miraculous deliverance from slavery in Egypt. They had witnessed His power in the parting of the Red Sea and had been sustained by His provisions in the desert. Yet, despite these incredible experiences, they fell into idolatry, immorality, and grumbling against God. Past blessings and spiritual experiences do not guarantee future faithfulness. We cannot become complacent in our faith, thinking that we are somehow immune to temptation or failure. Like the Israelites, we can easily forget God's goodness and turn away from Him. The passage also highlights the importance of learning from the mistakes of others. By studying the lives of those who have gone before us, we can hopefully avoid repeating their errors.

Ultimately, Paul's message is one of humility and perseverance. We must reject temptation, relying on God's grace and strength to remain faithful. We need to remember that the Christian life is a journey, not a destination. There will be challenges and setbacks along the way, but if we remain faithful and trust in God, He will lead us to the promised land.

This passage challenges us to examine our own hearts and motives. Are we taking our faith for granted?

Are we living in a way that honors God? Are we learning from the mistakes of others? Let us heed Paul's warning and strive to live lives of humility, obedience, and unwavering faith.

The Third Sunday of Lent Gospel Reading Luke 13: 1-9 At that time some people who were present there told him about the Galileans whose blood Pilate had mingled with the blood of their sacrifices. He said to them in reply, “Do you think that because these Galileans suffered in this way they were greater sinners than all other Galileans? By no means! But I tell you, if you do not repent,b you will all perish as they did! Or those eighteen people who were killed when the tower at Siloam fell on them—do you think they were more guilty than everyone else who lived in Jerusalem? By no means! But I tell you, if you do not repent, you will all perish as they did!” And he told them this parable: “There once was a person who had a fig tree planted in his orchard, and when he came in search of fruit on it but found none, he said to the gardener, ‘For three years now I have come in search of fruit on this fig tree but have found none. [So] cut it down. Why should it exhaust the soil?’ He said to him in reply, ‘Sir, leave it for this year also, and I shall cultivate the ground around it and fertilize it; it may bear fruit in the future. If not you can cut it down.’”

Reflection

By Betty Loia This is a rather unusually arranged Gospel passage. It begins with a scene of Jesus replying to a news report of some fellow Galileans who had run afoul of Pilate. In his reply he references another bit of news of the day about a tower that collapsed killing 12 people. While these events must have been a hot topic of conversation in 1st century Jerusalem, the details are forgotten today. Why did Pilate use those unfortunate Galileans to show his power? What was structurally wrong with that flimsy tower? Funny though, the people talking with Jesus did not seem concerned about those details either. From his response it seems they were mostly concerned with what those people did to bring disaster upon them.

Jesus reminds them that there was no sin that brought the tower or Pilate’s wrath down upon their heads. He goes on to remind them that they must watch their own behavior or they may meet a similar end.

His answer seems a little contradictory. Ultimately, though, this passage reminds us that we are not in control of this world. A hurricane floods mountain towns hundreds of miles from the coast. Fires wipe out entire neighborhoods in Los Angeles. An airplane collides with a helicopter seconds away from landing. How can we explain these things?

It seems that Jesus is saying that we should not try and we certainly should not try to assure ourselves that nothing bad could touch us. He follows up his warning with the parable of the barren fig tree.

Often we interpret this as a warning to get busy bearing fruit or else. I don’t think God the Father is looking at us in our weakness for an opportunity to wipe us out. After all, is it really the fig tree’s fault that it is not bearing fruit? It’s just a tree! It can’t water itself or make the rain fall. It can’t get up and move to better soil. But the fig tree does not need to worry (to whatever degree a fig tree can worry) because the gardener is looking out for it. He will cultivate the soil and fertilize. He will give the tree what it needs, none of which it can provide for itself. We can’t prevent bad things happening in the world, to those close to us or even to ourselves. We can accept that Jesus will provide us with all the spiritual goods that we need to respond fruitfully to whatever comes our way.

The Fourth Sunday of Lent First Reading Joshua 5:9a, 10-12 Then the LORD said to Joshua: Today I have removed the reproach of Egypt from you. Therefore the place is called Gilgal to the present day. While the Israelites were encamped at Gilgal on the plains of Jericho, they celebrated the Passover on the evening of the fourteenth day of the month. On the day after the Passover they ate of the produce of the land in the form of unleavened cakes and parched grain. On that same day after they ate of the produce of the land, the manna ceased. No longer was there manna for the Israelites, who that year ate of the yield of the land of Canaan.

The Fourth Sunday of Lent Responsorial Psalm Psalm 34: 2-3, 4-5, 6-7 I will bless the LORD at all times; his praise shall be always in my mouth.

My soul will glory in the LORD; let the poor hear and be glad.

Magnify the LORD with me; and let us exalt his name together.

I sought the LORD, and he answered me, delivered me from all my fears.

Look to him and be radiant, and your faces may not blush for shame.

This poor one cried out and the LORD heard, and from all his distress he saved him.

Reflection

By Dr. Rebecca Vaccaro Life can often feel like one long Lent, a time of suffering occasionally interrupted by moments of joy. The daily grind of life - that constant repetition of small, seemingly insignificant actions that affect no apparent change in our lives or the sense that we are overwhelmed by the minutiae of life – can make us feel the truth of the psalmist’s words in Psalm 102: “For my days vanish like smoke…/ My heart is withered, dried up like grass…/ My days are like a lengthening shadow” (Ps. 102: 4, 5, 12). And, yet, during these seasons, it is necessary for us to remember that our existence is not defined by sacrifice, deprivation, and suffering; there is also redemption, hope, restoration, and joy. After wandering in the desert for forty years, the Israelites encamped on the plains of Jericho and ate the food of their new home. Yes, they had waited and suffered for decades, but they had also been faithful (however imperfectly) and the Lord rewarded that faith, “removing the reproach of Egypt” from them and granting them their long hoped-for home in Canaan (Jos. 5: 9, 10-12). The Psalmist echoes the faith of the Israelites: “I sought the Lord, and he answered me, / delivered me from all my fears” (Ps. 34: 5). Let us remember, then, that life is not meant to be only monotony or pain and, even when it is monotonous or painful, it does not need to remain that way. The Lord is with us through all the Lents in our lives, hoping to deliver us from all our fears and save us from all our distress. Our lives may never be easy, but they can be hopeful. Thus, let us pray in words of Psalm 34: “I will praise the Lord at all times; His praise shall be always in my mouth.

My soul will glory in the Lord; Let the poor hear and be glad.

Magnify the Lord with me; And let us exalt his name together.”

Amen.

The Fourth Sunday of Lent Second Reading 2 Corinthians 5: 17-21 So whoever is in Christ is a new creation: the old things have passed away; behold, new things have come. And all this is from God, who has reconciled us to himself through Christ and given us the ministry of reconciliation, namely, God was reconciling the world to himself in Christ, not counting their trespasses against them and entrusting to us the message of reconciliation. So we are ambassadors for Christ, as if God were appealing through us. We implore you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God. For our sake he made him to be sin who did not know sin, so that we might become the righteousness of God in him.

Reflection

By Mary Ann Robbett The Fourth Sunday of Lent offers us profound lessons about God’s unwavering love and mercy. Paul’s teaching on new life in Christ, we see the many ways God calls us to renewal and reconciliation.

I can’t help but think how lucky we are that we become new again when we follow Jesus Christ and how blessed we are that God has given us the Sacrament of Reconciliation.

Paul tells us that we begin a new life when we follow Jesus and that our old sinful life is gone. He also tells us that God through Jesus has given us the ministry of reconciliation. To me, the ministry of reconciliation is a two-pronged affair. If you focus on the Lord’s Prayer, we ask God to forgive our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us. At BI, we are fortunate that we can easily seek reconciliation with God during Mercy Mondays or the Faculty Lenten Retreat. However, the forgiveness of those who trespass against us can be more challenging. From the little things- Do I really want to forgive the driver who cut me off on Duke Street? Or the person who took my parking spot? To the slightly more difficult - the person who hurt your feelings and you hold a grudge- to the person who broke your trust and profoundly hurt you.

Forgiveness is a decision to let it go. You can still be hurt and unwilling to trust them but by forgiving them, you no longer need them to make reparations. You with God’s help are moving forward with your life when you choose to forgive those who trespassed against you.

The Fourth Sunday of Lent Gospel Reading Luke 15: 1-3, 11-32 The tax collectors and sinners were all drawing near to listen to him, but the Pharisees and scribes began to complain, saying, “This man welcomes sinners and eats with them.” So to them he addressed this parable. Then he said, “A man had two sons, and the younger son said to his father, ‘Father, give me the share of your estate that should come to me.’ So the father divided the property between them. After a few days, the younger son collected all his belongings and set off to a distant country where he squandered his inheritance on a life of dissipation. When he had freely spent everything, a severe famine struck that country, and he found himself in dire need. So he hired himself out to one of the local citizens who sent him to his farm to tend the swine. And he longed to eat his fill of the pods on which the swine fed, but nobody gave him any. Coming to his senses he thought, ‘How many of my father’s hired workers have more than enough food to eat, but here am I, dying from hunger. I shall get up and go to my father and I shall say to him, “Father, I have sinned against heaven and against you. I no longer deserve to be called your son; treat me as you would treat one of your hired workers.”’ So he got up and went back to his father. While he was still a long way off, his father caught sight of him, and was filled with compassion. He ran to his son, embraced him and kissed him. His son said to him, ‘Father, I have sinned against heaven and against you; I no longer deserve to be called your son.’ But his father ordered his servants, ‘Quickly bring the finest robe and put it on him; put a ring on his finger and sandals on his feet.

Take the fattened calf and slaughter it. Then let us celebrate with a feast, because this son of mine was dead, and has come to life again; he was lost, and has been found.’ Then the celebration began. Now the older son had been out in the field and, on his way back, as he neared the house, he heard the sound of music and dancing. He called one of the servants and asked what this might mean. The servant said to him, ‘Your brother has returned and your father has slaughtered the fattened calf because he has him back safe and sound.’ He became angry, and when he refused to enter the house, his father came out and pleaded with him. He said to his father in reply, ‘Look, all these years I served you and not once did I disobey your orders; yet you never gave me even a young goat to feast on with my friends. But when your son returns who swallowed up your property with prostitutes, for him you slaughter the fattened calf.’ He said to him, ‘My son, you are here with me always; everything I have is yours. But now we must celebrate and rejoice, because your brother was dead and has come to life again; he was lost and has been found.’”

Reflection

By Kathleen McNutt Lent is a season of repentance, renewal, and return to God. It is a reminder that our time on this Earth is a journey that needs God for the fuel. The parable of the Prodigal Son beautifully illustrates this journey, offering a profound reflection on God’s mercy and our response to His infinite love.

The Younger Son: A Journey To Conversion The younger son, restless and eager for independence, demands his inheritance early and wastes it through reckless living. His eventual misery, feeding pigs and longing for their scraps, mirrors how each one of us feels when we turn away from God. Lent invites us to examine ourselves: Have we gotten lost in worldly distractions or material things?

Yet, the turning point in the parable is the son’s realization: “I will arise and go to my father” (Luke 15:18). This moment of recognition and need for repentance is central to our Lenten journey. No matter how far we have strayed, God always yearns for and welcomes us home.

The Father: Mercy and Love The father’s response to the younger son is astounding. He doesn’t even wait for an explanation when he sees his son returning. Instead, he runs to embrace him, a sign of sincerest love and mercy. This is the heart of Lent–God is not waiting to condemn or question us, but is always waiting to receive us back with open arms. Lent calls us to come home and accept God’s mercy fully.

The Older Son: A Call to Deeper Conversion The older son, struggling to understand his father’s mercy and unconditional love, gets lost in pride and expectations. In his humanity, he doesn’t recognize the beauty of his father’s mercy for his younger brother and sees love as something that is earned rather than freely given. This poses a challenge for us: Can we forgive without expectation of something in return? Are we willing to celebrate and embrace God’s mercy for others without judging and questioning what more should be given to ourselves? Lent is an important time to surrender our pride as well as those things that harden our hearts.

As we continue on our Lenten pilgrimage in this fourth week of Lent, may we embrace God’s mercy and extend it to others, remembering that God loves us infinitely and unconditionally.

The Fifth Sunday of Lent First Reading Isaiah 43: 16-21 Thus says the LORD, who opens a way in the sea, a path in the mighty waters, Who leads out chariots and horsemen, a powerful army, Till they lie prostrate together, never to rise, snuffed out, quenched like a wick. Remember not the events of the past, the things of long ago consider not; See, I am doing something new! Now it springs forth, do you not perceive it? In the wilderness I make a way, in the wasteland, rivers. Wild beasts honor me, jackals and ostriches, For I put water in the wilderness and rivers in the wasteland for my chosen people to drink, The people whom I formed for myself, that they might recount my praise.

The Fifth Sunday of Lent Responsorial Psalm Psalm 126: 1-2, 2-3, 4-5, 6 A song of ascents.

When the LORD restored the captives of Zion, we thought we were dreaming.

Then our mouths were filled with laughter; our tongues sang for joy.

Then it was said among the nations, “The LORD had done great things for them.”

The LORD has done great things for us; Oh, how happy we were!

Restore our captives, LORD, like the dry stream beds of the Negeb.

Those who sow in tears will reap with cries of joy.

Those who go forth weeping, carrying sacks of seed, Will return with cries of joy, carrying their bundled sheaves.

Reflection

By Jeanne Bliss If I am ever in doubt that our God is a mighty God, Isaiah 43:16-21 immediately puts my heart at ease and reminds me that He leads a powerful army. He opens a way in the sea, a path in the mighty waters!

Life is messy. That’s a fact. And amid its messiness, we are blessed with a God who fights for us. Who reminds us to be present - to “remember not the events of the past” - and reminds us that He makes all things new.

In the wilderness of life, when I am unsure of myself, unsure of the way forward, He makes away! I only need to trust that it is so and sing His praise. I only need to seek to do what is right in His eyes, and He will be with me. How blessed are we?

Prayer: Lord, thank you for fighting for me. Thank you for leading me through the messiness of life even when I cannot see it. Thank you for being my hope, my rest, and my salvation. Help me to always sing your praise with a true and joyful heart. Amen.

The Fifth Sunday of Lent Second Reading Philippians 3: 8-14 More than that, I even consider everything as a loss because of the supreme good of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord. For his sake I have accepted the loss of all things and I consider them so much rubbish, that I may gain Christ and be found in him, not having any righteousness of my own based on the law but that which comes through faith in Christ,h the righteousness from God, depending on faith to know him and the power of his resurrection and [the] sharing of his sufferings by being conformed to his death, if somehow I may attain the resurrection from the dead. It is not that I have already taken hold of it or have already attained perfect maturity, but I continue my pursuit in hope that I may possess it, since I have indeed been taken possession of by Christ [Jesus]. Brothers, I for my part do not consider myself to have taken possession. Just one thing: forgetting what lies behind but straining forward to what lies ahead, I continue my pursuit toward the goal, the prize of God’s upward calling, in Christ Jesus.

Reflection

By Tania Slaton As an engineering teacher, I often encourage my students to embrace challenges, push boundaries, and strive for innovation. This passage from Philippians reminds me that our earthly pursuits—academic success, technological advancements, or professional achievements—pale in comparison to the ultimate goal of knowing Christ.

Engineering teaches us problem-solving, precision, and perseverance, but faith teaches us trust, humility, and purpose. As we refine designs through trial and error, our spiritual journey requires us to let go of past failures and continue striving toward Christ. St. Paul speaks of "forgetting what lies behind but straining forward to what lies ahead," a mindset that resonates deeply with engineering and faith. In the classroom, I challenge students to learn from setbacks and keep moving forward; in life, I hope they apply the same resilience in their walk with God. Ultimately, engineering is about creating solutions that serve others. Likewise, our faith calls us to build something greater than ourselves: a life rooted in Christ, shaped by love, and directed toward the ultimate prize of eternal life.

God, may we, as educators and students alike, pursue not just knowledge but wisdom, not just success but virtue, and not just invention but transformation in Christ. Amen.

The Fifth Sunday of Lent Gospel Reading John 8: 1-11 Then each went to his own house, while Jesus went to the Mount of Olives. But early in the morning he arrived again in the temple area, and all the people started coming to him, and he sat down and taught them. Then the scribes and the Pharisees brought a woman who had been caught in adultery and made her stand in the middle. They said to him, “Teacher, this woman was caught in the very act of committing adultery. Now in the law, Moses commanded us to stone such women. So what do you say?” They said this to test him, so that they could have some charge to bring against him. Jesus bent down and began to write on the ground with his finger. But when they continued asking him, he straightened up and said to them, “Let the one among you who is without sin be the first to throw a stone at her.” Again he bent down and wrote on the ground. And in response, they went away one by one, beginning with the elders. So he was left alone with the woman before him. Then Jesus straightened up and said to her, “Woman, where are they? Has no one condemned you?” She replied, “No one, sir.” Then Jesus said, “Neither do I condemn you. Go, [and] from now on do not sin any more.”

Reflection

By Jessica Conner My childhood church had a little store that was open after Sunday Mass. Occasionally, my parents gave my brother and me some money to spend there. Usually, I would usually buy a saint medal or prayer cards, but once I bought a rock.

A little rock printed with the phrase: “Let he without sin cast the first stone.”

This polished rock sat atop the jewelry box on my dresser through most of my adolescence.

Something I would see regularly; and I still possess.

In this reading, Jesus tells us not to be judgmental. There’s an underlying message of compassion, humanity, and love.

Recently, at a military leadership conference, I had the great pleasure of listening to a speech from Bryan Stevenson, lawyer, founder of the Equal Justice Initiative, and Legacy projects. Mr. Stevenson’s talk reminded senior military leaders about compassion and understanding in their roles. Compassion for the accused and the guilty. Committing a crime does not make someone a criminal for life. He stressed that senior military leaders who are charged with enforcing good order and discipline should see the whole person when considering disciplinary action.

I listened to this message, not as an Air Force Colonel, but as a teacher. A student that tells me a lie is not a liar. A student that cheats on their test is not simply defined as a cheater. As a Catholic educator I am involved in developing the whole person and helping students make good choices, understand consequences, but know love and grace when they sin. It’s important I reserve judgment of the whole person based on one action and turn missteps into teaching moments.

That little rock reminds me not to judge. It reminds me to give grace, and to forgive.

A Prayer for the Judgmental Heart - from Catholic Daily Reflections: Give me the grace I need to abandon my own self-righteous and judgmental ways so that I will be free to love You and to love others with my whole heart. Free me from the burden of these sins, dear Lord, so that I can more easily see Your goodness in others and rejoice in Your presence in their lives. Jesus, I trust in You.

Palm Sunday At the Procession with the Palms Mark 11: 1-10 When they drew near to Jerusalem, to Bethphage and Bethany at the Mount of Olives, he sent two of his disciples and said to them, “Go into the village opposite you, and immediately on entering it, you will find a colt tethered on which no one has ever sat. Untie it and bring it here. If anyone should say to you, ‘Why are you doing this?’ reply, ‘The Master has need of it and will send it back here at once.’” So they went off and found a colt tethered at a gate outside on the street, and they untied it. Some of the bystanders said to them, “What are you doing, untying the colt?” They answered them just as Jesus had told them to, and they permitted them to do it. So they brought the colt to Jesus and put their cloaks over it. And he sat on it. Many people spread their cloaks on the road, and others spread leafy branches that they had cut from the fields. Those preceding him as well as those following kept crying out: “Hosanna! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord! Blessed is the kingdom of our father David that is to come! Hosanna in the highest!”

Reflection

By Cathlene Shearon While reading this passage of Jesus entering the city with lots of cheers from the crowd. I kept thinking of when athletes enter the gym/field with music, cheers and pompoms waving at their entrance. We are expecting great things from them. The crowd that cheered on Jesus and laying palms at his feet were the same people a few days later denying him. When a team loses or makes a bad play, we too can be quick to turn our backs.

However, in the passage, Jesus was humble and rode in on a donkey (a sign of peace), not a war horse or chariot so not to be thought of as a rival. But He rode as a king with the borrowed donkey that no one has ever ridden, only kings would get the first seat privilege.

The Jews recalled the words of the Prophet Zechariah 500 years earlier: “Exult greatly, O daughter Zion! / Shout for joy, O daughter Jerusalem! / Behold: your king is coming to you; /a just savior is he, / Humble, and riding on a donkey, / on a colt, the foal of a donkey. / He shall banish the chariot from Ephraim / and the horse from Jerusalem” (Zec 9:9-10).

As teachers, we need to cheer on each other as we are also a team. We are in our own rooms where other faculty do not get a chance to view our sacrifices to make and perform our amazing lesson plans.

We may look humble (or tired) when passing in the hallways just as Jesus was humble riding in on his donkey. We have to remember that we also do great things for our students and are not quick to turn our backs on those that need us most. Jesus did great things even when others were not watching, He never turns his back on us and made the ultimate sacrifice.

Lord, Bless our humble teachers. While our sacrifices may go unseen by our peers, they will be remembered by our students for many years to come. May we continue to stand up for those that cannot stand up for themselves and never turn our backs on those that need us most. While Jesus influences our lives, help us to continue to influence our students by Living Jesus in our daily lives.

Palm Sunday First Reading Isaiah 50: 4-7​ The Lord GOD has given me a well-trained tongue, That I might know how to answer the weary a word that will waken them. Morning after morning he wakens my ear to hear as disciples do; The Lord GOD opened my ear; I did not refuse, did not turn away. I gave my back to those who beat me, my cheeks to those who tore out my beard; My face I did not hide from insults and spitting. The Lord GOD is my help, therefore I am not disgraced; Therefore I have set my face like flint, knowing that I shall not be put to shame.

Palm Sunday Responsorial Psalm Psalm 22: 8-9, 17-18, 19-20, 23-24 All who see me mock me; they curl their lips and jeer; they shake their heads at me: “He relied on the LORD—let him deliver him; if he loves him, let him rescue him.”

Dogs surround me; a pack of evildoers closes in on me.

They have pierced my hands and my feet I can count all my bones.

They stare at me and gloat; they divide my garments among them; for my clothing they cast lots.

But you, LORD, do not stay far off; my strength, come quickly to help me.

Then I will proclaim your name to my brethren; in the assembly I will praise you: “You who fear the LORD, give praise!

All descendants of Jacob, give honor; show reverence, all descendants of Israel!

Reflection

By Jane Hannon On this Palm Sunday, the first reading from Isaiah and Psalm 22 tell of suffering embraced with faith.

Despite his “well-trained tongue,” the prophet is apprehensive about his charge to “answer the weary a word that will waken them.” His language acknowledges his gift from God, but his own weariness and fear are apparent. Experience has shown that “insults and spitting” can be the price of proclaiming God’s truth, but he perseveres, confident that God will not allow His faithful to be disgraced. Psalm 22 foretells the forms of humiliation, abandonment, and physical pain the Son of God will willingly assume for the salvation of humanity but concludes with an expression of praise and confidence in God’s aid.

Sometimes, suffering, or even of the prospect, of it can make us self-centered. When opportunities arise to employ our gifts in situations that require courage, it is easy to rationalize that now is not the time, to assure ourselves that our efforts wouldn’t bear fruit in the face of insurmountable obstacles, or even to overlook the call completely, due to weariness or busyness. Similarly, confronting a hardship not of our choosing can leave us at least temporarily convinced that no one else has ever gone through this. The readings of Holy Week challenge this myopic, defeated outlook, by vividly reminding us that Jesus willingly endured the pain and degradation of His Passion so that we may look beyond suffering to the hope of eternal life.

Dear Jesus our Savior, As we commemorate Your Passion during this Holy Week, we are reminded that we never suffer alone.

You entered into the depths of human suffering to redeem us from our sins. May we embrace our struggles with courage and faith to unite our sacrifice with yours.

Amen.

Palm Sunday Second Reading Philippians 2: 6-11 Who, though he was in the form of God, did not regard equality with God something to be grasped.

Rather, he emptied himself, taking the form of a slave, coming in human likeness; and found human in appearance, he humbled himself, becoming obedient to death, even death on a cross. Because of this, God greatly exalted him and bestowed on him the name that is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bend, of those in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

Reflection

By Christopher Allen Our Second Reading comes from Chapter 2 of Paul’s Letter to the Corinthians which is entitled “A Plea for Unity and Humility.” The Salesian virtue of Humility was the most important virtue to Francis de Sales: his dying words to the Sisters of the Visitation were “humility, humility, humility.” Humility has always been the hardest of the Little Virtues for me to embody.

Humility was once explained to me as “being real about who you are and whose you are.” Who I am is something which is shaped by and continually evolves as a result of the people and circumstances God puts into my life. By living in the present moment and being aware of those around me and of myself I can come to a greater knowledge of who I am. I know whose I am: I am a beloved child of God who has been made in his image and likeness. What I struggle with is that my words and actions don’t always reflect the reality of who and whose I am. You see, I’m a perfectionist, and this leads to a gap between my ideal of how I ought to live my life based on whose I am and the reality of how I am living my life based on who I am at any given moment of the day. This sometimes causes me to be harder on myself than I ought to be. As we come to the end of Lent, it’s important to remember that all of us have at one time or another fallen short of what we resolved to do to help us grow closer to God during these past forty days. Humility is embracing who we are in the present moment before God. In this reading, Paul emphasizes Jesus’ humility. In humility Jesus became who God the Father called him to be: he embraced our human nature coming among us not as an exalted ruler, but as a carpenter’s son.

We can find hope in seeing Jesus embrace God’s will for him: by becoming who God the Father called him to be he was exalted. Are we called to be perfect in all that we do? No. Perfection lies in our acceptance of who we are and whose we are in the eyes of God. Will God judge us solely on how successfully we lived out our Lenten practices? I hope not! Nonetheless, we should continually work toward becoming who God has created us to be and in growing in relationship with him each day so that, at the final judgement, we too may be exalted.

Lord, help me to always remember who I am and whose I am as I continue to strive to follow in the footsteps of Jesus, your Son, and become who you’ve called me to be. Amen.

Palm Sunday Gospel Reading Luke 22: 14 - 23: 56 When the hour came, he took his place at table with the apostles. He said to them, “I have eagerly desired to eat this Passover with you before I suffer, for, I tell you, I shall not eat it [again] until there is fulfillment in the kingdom of God.” Then he took a cup, gave thanks, and said, “Take this and share it among yourselves; for I tell you [that] from this time on I shall not drink of the fruit of the vine until the kingdom of God comes.” Then he took the bread, said the blessing, broke it, and gave it to them, saying, “This is my body, which will be given for you; do this in memory of me.” And likewise the cup after they had eaten, saying, “This cup is the new covenant in my blood, which will be shed for you.

“And yet behold, the hand of the one who is to betray me is with me on the table; for the Son of Man indeed goes as it has been determined; but woe to that man by whom he is betrayed.” And they began to debate among themselves who among them would do such a deed.

Then an argument broke out among them about which of them should be regarded as the greatest. He said to them, “The kings of the Gentiles lord it over them and those in authority over them are addressed as ‘Benefactors’; but among you it shall not be so. Rather, let the greatest among you be as the youngest, and the leader as the servant. For who is greater: the one seated at table or the one who serves? Is it not the one seated at table? I am among you as the one who serves. It is you who have stood by me in my trials; and I confer a kingdom on you, just as my Father has conferred one on me, that you may eat and drink at my table in my kingdom; and you will sit on thrones judging the twelve tribes of Israel.

“Simon, Simon, behold Satan has demanded to sift all of you like wheat, but I have prayed that your own faith may not fail; and once you have turned back, you must strengthen your brothers.” He said to him, “Lord, I am prepared to go to prison and to die with you.” But he replied, “I tell you, Peter, before the cock crows this day, you will deny three times that you know me.”

He said to them, “When I sent you forth without a money bag or a sack or sandals, were you in need of anything?” “No, nothing,” they replied. He said to them, “But now one who has a money bag should take it, and likewise a sack, and one who does not have a sword should sell his cloak and buy one. For I tell you that this scripture must be fulfilled in me, namely, ‘He was counted among the wicked’; and indeed what is written about me is coming to fulfillment.” Then they said, “Lord, look, there are two swords here.” But he replied, “It is enough!”

Then going out he went, as was his custom, to the Mount of Olives, and the disciples followed him. When he arrived at the place he said to them, “Pray that you may not undergo the test.” After withdrawing about a stone’s throw from them and kneeling, he prayed, saying, “Father, if you are willing, take this cup away from me; still, not my will but yours be done.” [And to strengthen him an angel from heaven appeared to him. He was in such agony and he prayed so fervently that his sweat became like drops of blood falling on the ground.]

When he rose from prayer and returned to his disciples, he found them sleeping from grief. He said to them, “Why are you sleeping? Get up and pray that you may not undergo the test.”

While he was still speaking, a crowd approached and in front was one of the Twelve, a man named Judas. He went up to Jesus to kiss him. Jesus said to him, “Judas, are you betraying the Son of Man with a kiss?” His

disciples realized what was about to happen, and they asked, “Lord, shall we strike with a sword?” And one of them struck the high priest’s servant and cut off his right ear. But Jesus said in reply, “Stop, no more of this!”

Then he touched the servant’s ear and healed him. And Jesus said to the chief priests and temple guards and elders who had come for him, “Have you come out as against a robber, with swords and clubs? Day after day I was with you in the temple area, and you did not seize me; but this is your hour, the time for the power of darkness.”

After arresting him they led him away and took him into the house of the high priest; Peter was following at a distance. They lit a fire in the middle of the courtyard and sat around it, and Peter sat down with them. When a maid saw him seated in the light, she looked intently at him and said, “This man too was with him.” But he denied it saying, “Woman, I do not know him.” A short while later someone else saw him and said, “You too are one of them”; but Peter answered, “My friend, I am not.” About an hour later, still another insisted, “Assuredly, this man too was with him, for he also is a Galilean.” But Peter said, “My friend, I do not know what you are talking about.” Just as he was saying this, the cock crowed, and the Lord turned and looked at Peter; and Peter remembered the word of the Lord, how he had said to him, “Before the cock crows today, you will deny me three times.” He went out and began to weep bitterly. The men who held Jesus in custody were ridiculing and beating him. They blindfolded him and questioned him, saying, “Prophesy! Who is it that struck you?” And they reviled him in saying many other things against him.

When day came the council of elders of the people met, both chief priests and scribes, and they brought him before their Sanhedrin. They said, “If you are the Messiah, tell us,” but he replied to them, “If I tell you, you will not believe, and if I question, you will not respond. But from this time on the Son of Man will be seated at the right hand of the power of God.” They all asked, “Are you then the Son of God?” He replied to them, “You say that I am.” Then they said, “What further need have we for testimony? We have heard it from his own mouth.”

Then the whole assembly of them arose and brought him before Pilate. They brought charges against him, saying, “We found this man misleading our people; he opposes the payment of taxes to Caesar and maintains that he is the Messiah, a king.” Pilate asked him, “Are you the king of the Jews?” He said to him in reply, “You say so.” Pilate then addressed the chief priests and the crowds, “I find this man not guilty.” But they were adamant and said, “He is inciting the people with his teaching throughout all Judea, from Galilee where he began even to here.” On hearing this Pilate asked if the man was a Galilean; and upon learning that he was under Herod’s jurisdiction, he sent him to Herod who was in Jerusalem at that time. Herod was very glad to see Jesus; he had been wanting to see him for a long time, for he had heard about him and had been hoping to see him perform some sign. He questioned him at length, but he gave him no answer. The chief priests and scribes, meanwhile, stood by accusing him harshly. [Even] Herod and his soldiers treated him contemptuously and mocked him, and after clothing him in resplendent garb, he sent him back to Pilate. Herod and Pilate became friends that very day, even though they had been enemies formerly. Pilate then summoned the chief priests, the rulers, and the people and said to them, “You brought this man to me and accused him of inciting the people to revolt. I have conducted my investigation in your presence and have not found this man guilty of the charges you have brought against him, nor did Herod, for he sent him back to us. So no capital crime has been committed by him. Therefore I shall have him flogged and then release him.”

But all together they shouted out, “Away with this man! Release Barabbas to us.” (Now Barabbas had been imprisoned for a rebellion that had taken place in the city and for murder.) Again Pilate addressed them, still wishing to release Jesus, but they continued their shouting, “Crucify him! Crucify him!” Pilate addressed them a third time, “What evil has this man done? I found him guilty of no capital crime. Therefore I shall have him

flogged and then release him.” With loud shouts, however, they persisted in calling for his crucifixion, and their voices prevailed. The verdict of Pilate was that their demand should be granted. So he released the man who had been imprisoned for rebellion and murder, for whom they asked, and he handed Jesus over to them to deal with as they wished.

As they led him away they took hold of a certain Simon, a Cyrenian, who was coming in from the country; and after laying the cross on him, they made him carry it behind Jesus. A large crowd of people followed Jesus, including many women who mourned and lamented him. Jesus turned to them and said, “Daughters of Jerusalem, do not weep for me; weep instead for yourselves and for your children, for indeed, the days are coming when people will say, ‘Blessed are the barren, the wombs that never bore and the breasts that never nursed.’ At that time people will say to the mountains, ‘Fall upon us!’ and to the hills, ‘Cover us!’ for if these things are done when the wood is green what will happen when it is dry?” Now two others, both criminals, were led away with him to be executed.

When they came to the place called the Skull, they crucified him and the criminals there, one on his right, the other on his left. [Then Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, they know not what they do.”] They divided his garments by casting lots. The people stood by and watched; the rulers, meanwhile, sneered at him and said, “He saved others, let him save himself if he is the chosen one, the Messiah of God.” Even the soldiers jeered at him. As they approached to offer him wine, they called out, “If you are King of the Jews, save yourself.” Above him there was an inscription that read, “This is the King of the Jews.” Now one of the criminals hanging there reviled Jesus, saying, “Are you not the Messiah? Save yourself and us.” The other, however, rebuking him, said in reply, “Have you no fear of God, for you are subject to the same condemnation? And indeed, we have been condemned justly, for the sentence we received corresponds to our crimes, but this man has done nothing criminal.” Then he said, “Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom.” He replied to him, “Amen, I say to you, today you will be with me in Paradise.”

It was now about noon and darkness came over the whole land until three in the afternoon because of an eclipse of the sun. Then the veil of the temple was torn down the middle. Jesus cried out in a loud voice, “Father, into your hands I commend my spirit”; and when he had said this he breathed his last. The centurion who witnessed what had happened glorified God and said, “This man was innocent beyond doubt.” When all the people who had gathered for this spectacle saw what had happened, they returned home beating their breasts; but all his acquaintances stood at a distance, including the women who had followed him from Galilee and saw these events.

Now there was a virtuous and righteous man named Joseph who, though he was a member of the council, had not consented to their plan of action. He came from the Jewish town of Arimathea and was awaiting the kingdom of God. He went to Pilate and asked for the body of Jesus. After he had taken the body down, he wrapped it in a linen cloth and laid him in a rock-hewn tomb in which no one had yet been buried. It was the day of preparation, and the sabbath was about to begin. The women who had come from Galilee with him followed behind, and when they had seen the tomb and the way in which his body was laid in it, they returned and prepared spices and perfumed oils. Then they rested on the sabbath according to the commandment.

Reflection

By Gabby Baniqued As penance, a priest once told me to pray this prayer: Lord, give me opportunities to be generous. It was as quick to recite as it was answered, for a plentitude of opportunities arose the next day. It was easy to give without reserve, since I was actively searching for chances to do so. On any other day, however, my natural tendency is to calculate if an act of generosity is worth the time, money, or inconvenience required, much like the critics of the woman with the alabaster jar.

When we come face to face with Christ in our lives, do we calculate and withhold what we have, or do we offer it all to Him? Do we offer our first fruits or our leftovers?

The most precious riches of this world, I believe, are not always financial. Nowadays, a multi-millionaire could donate more money than I may ever make in my lifetime, and it might do nothing to soften his hardened heart, let alone disturb his wallet. What is more precious is to offer our comfort, our security, our expectations, our pride.

God is asking for these precious things. Not to deprive us, but to draw near to us. Not out of spite but out of a great love that goes beyond our reason.

The next thing God calls you to might feel as unreasonable as “wasting” a jar of perfumed oil worth more than three hundred days’ wages. Would you say yes to His call?

Jesus, please reveal Your calling for me. Help me to be receptive and free from any attachments that may hinder me from being who You created me to be. Help me to follow in Your footsteps, even along the path that requires suffering and sacrifice. When I am afraid or confused with Your plan for me, help me to put my trust in You. If others judge me when I respond to Your call, help me to find refuge in You. As best as I can, I give everything over to You. Amen.

Spy Wednesday

by Stephen Crooker Our spiritual journey of Lent is swiftly ending. The most profound events of this Holy Week await us with the Last Supper, the arrest of Our Lord, His trial and crucifixion. Today, the Catholic Church marks two major moments. First, the preparation for holy Passover and what is soon to become the Last Supper.

Second, a sinister plan is unfolding, one that is rooted in greed, sin and ego. This is the day when Judas Iscariot sought the ideal moment and opportunity to turn from Disciple to traitor. A cash reward was offered to Judas with the now legendary amount of thirty pieces of silver. As did Adam in the Garden of Eden, Judas will turn away from the divine plan and seek the arrest of Jesus in a Garden. Judas, like Adam, embraced the false message of worldly desire. In the end, Jesus will be victorious over sin, but not before betrayal, arrest and a mock trial.

On this day, however, we paused to take note of Judas’ tragic moment for betrayal. Our Lord’s great statement to “Get away, Satan!” is also our rally and call too this day as we begin to close our Lenten journey. Get away from sin! Get away from division! Get away from lying! Follow the Lord into the Tridium this year. Walk with Him and know that your journey is not one that is made alone.

God of goodness and mercy, hear my prayer as I begin this Lenten journey with you. Let me be honest with myself as I investigate my heart and soul, noticing the times I turn away from you. Guide me as I humbly seek to repent and return to your love.

Holy Thursday First Reading Exodus 12: 1-8, 11-14 “The LORD said to Moses and Aaron in the land of Egypt: This month will stand at the head of your calendar; you will reckon it the first month of the year. Tell the whole community of Israel: On the tenth of this month every family must procure for itself a lamb, one apiece for each household. If a household is too small for a lamb, it along with its nearest neighbor will procure one, and apportion the lamb’s cost in proportion to the number of persons, according to what each household consumes. Your lamb must be a year-old male and without blemish. You may take it from either the sheep or the goats. You will keep it until the fourteenth day of this month, and then, with the whole community of Israel assembled, it will be slaughtered during the evening twilight. They will take some of its blood and apply it to the two doorposts and the lintel of the houses in which they eat it. They will consume its meat that same night, eating it roasted with unleavened bread and bitter herbs. This is how you are to eat it: with your loins girt, sandals on your feet and your staff in hand, you will eat it in a hurry. It is the LORD’s Passover. For on this same night I will go through Egypt, striking down every firstborn in the land, human being and beast alike, and executing judgment on all the gods of Egypt—I, the LORD! But for you the blood will mark the houses where you are. Seeing the blood, I will pass over you; thereby, when I strike the land of Egypt, no destructive blow will come upon you. This day will be a day of remembrance for you, which your future generations will celebrate with pilgrimage to the LORD; you will celebrate it as a statute forever.”

Holy Thursday Responsorial Psalm Psalm 116: 12-13, 15-16bc, 17-18 How can I repay the LORD for all the great good done for me?

I will raise the cup of salvation and call on the name of the LORD. Dear in the eyes of the LORD is the death of his devoted.

LORD, I am your servant, your servant, the child of your maidservant; you have loosed my bonds.

I will offer a sacrifice of praise and call on the name of the LORD. I will pay my vows to the LORD in the presence of all his people.

Reflection

By Mary Briody Holy Thursday has always conjured up two images for me—the washing of feet and feasting with loved ones. These are powerful symbols of sacrifice and celebration. In Exodus 12:1-14, the Passover ritual is explained with great precision. It reminds me of a modern-day algorithm—a step-by-step set of instructions on how to save your life! In this divine algorithm, the lamb is the input, and the process includes detailed steps: how to slaughter the lamb, apply its blood to the doorposts, prepare and eat it, and more. The output? Those who believe and follow the instructions will live and produce “future generations” who will “celebrate…forever.”

The lamb is a symbol of Christ, foreshadowing His ultimate sacrifice for us, even though He was the Son of God. If we reflect on that, none of us should consider ourselves above sacrificing for others or embracing discomfort in the present for the sake of future gains—what we often call delayed gratification. In today’s world of instant gratification and immediate access to most things, this concept is difficult to live out. It took immense faith and trust for the Israelites to believe in this divine algorithm and follow its instructions.

How can I trust in God’s plan for my life, even when I don’t understand it? That is where faith must step in. Many leaps of faith in life are followed by a feast or celebration, just as in the Last Supper. Wedding receptions mark the beginning of a lifelong commitment where two people trust each other with their future. Valentine’s Day dinners celebrate love that has been nurtured through years of trust and faith.

I love the example set by the Passover: sacrifice and hard work, followed by celebration. As teachers, we try to instill this lesson in our students every day—learning requires effort, and the reward comes later.

Sometimes, the reward is immediate, like a good grade on a test. Other times, it comes much later, when a former student is navigating college or the working world and realizes that the attention to detail, organizational skills, or even spreadsheet knowledge they learned in our class has prepared them for success. And then—they can celebrate!

Dear God, Thank You for the lessons of sacrifice and celebration that You have woven into our faith. Just as You guided the Israelites through the Passover, help us to trust in Your divine plan, even when we do not fully understand it. Give us the patience to embrace hard work and the faith to wait for the rewards that come. May our daily efforts, whether in teaching, learning, or serving, reflect Your greater purpose. Let us rejoice in the moments of celebration, knowing they are made richer by the sacrifices that came before.

Amen

Holy Thursday Second Reading 1 Corinthians 11: 23-26 For I received from the Lord what I also handed on to you, that the Lord Jesus, on the night he was handed over, took bread, and, after he had given thanks, broke it and said, “This is my body that is for you. Do this in remembrance of me.” In the same way also the cup, after supper, saying, “This cup is the new covenant in my blood. Do this, as often as you drink it, in remembrance of me.” For as often as you eat this bread and drink the cup, you proclaim the death of the Lord until he comes.

Reflection

By Megan Brown While reading this passage and reflecting on Holy Thursday, I am reminded of my mother taking my brother and I to the Chrism Mass every year at St. Thomas More Cathedral when we were growing up. As a child, the Chrism Mass made me realize that the holy season of Lent was coming to an end, but I also enjoyed seeing the bishop and all the priests in the diocese gathering to bless the oil and consecrate the chrism that would be used for sacraments throughout the year.

The splendid celebration of all the priests in the diocese at the Chrism Mass every Holy Thursday serves as a powerful sign of our oneness in Christ, Jesus. That unity is something that Saint Paul stresses in his letter to the Corinthians. St. Paul strongly reminds the people of Corinth, For I received from the Lord what I also handed on to you, that the Lord Jesus, on the night he was handed over, took bread, and, after he had given thanks, broke it and said, “This is my body that is for you. Do this in remembrance of me.”

When we participate in Holy Communion, we are not just robots performing a ritual. We are remembering and proclaiming Jesus' sacrifice for us on the cross. We are making a commitment to live in accordance with His teachings. Going to Mass and receiving communion highlights the unity of all believers through sharing this sacred meal.

Lord, help us to approach Holy Communion with reverence and a sincere heart, reflecting on the sacrifice You have made for us. May we always appreciate the importance of sharing communion as a community united in service, compassion, and faith.

Holy Thursday Gospel Reading John 13: 1-15 Before the feast of Passover, Jesus knew that his hour had come to pass from this world to the Father. He loved his own in the world and he loved them to the end. The devil had already induced Judas, son of Simon the Iscariot, to hand him over. So, during supper, fully aware that the Father had put everything into his power and that he had come from God and was returning to God, he rose from supper and took off his outer garments. He took a towel and tied it around his waist. Then he poured water into a basin and began to wash the disciples’ feet and dry them with the towel around his waist. He came to Simon Peter, who said to him, “Master, are you going to wash my feet?” Jesus answered and said to him, “What I am doing, you do not understand now, but you will understand later.” Peter said to him, “You will never wash my feet.” Jesus answered him, “Unless I wash you, you will have no inheritance with me.” Simon Peter said to him, “Master, then not only my feet, but my hands and head as well.” Jesus said to him, “Whoever has bathed has no need except to have his feet washed, for he is clean all over; so you are clean, but not all.” For he knew who would betray him; for this reason, he said, “Not all of you are clean.”

So when he had washed their feet [and] put his garments back on and reclined at table again, he said to them, “Do you realize what I have done for you? You call me ‘teacher’ and ‘master,’ and rightly so, for indeed I am. If I, therefore, the master and teacher, have washed your feet, you ought to wash one another’s feet. I have given you a model to follow, so that as I have done for you, you should also do.

Reflection

By Molly McGraw Every time I read and pray over this Gospel passage from Holy Thursday, something new touches me.

This time around, I’m amazed by Christ’s self-emptying love. Often, when I make what I deem to be a sacrifice, I do so begrudgingly (which pretty much defeats the entire point of making a ‘sacrifice’). I might appear to be fully willing, but in my mind, pride and resentment take root. I reflexively add another “selfless” act to the ongoing list, secretly wondering when someone will make sacrifices on my behalf, blind to the fact that my roommate, coworkers, family members and friends make sacrifices for me every day and even more blind to the fact that our Lord makes a continual sacrifice for all of us through the gift of the Eucharist.

When thinking about sacrifice and self-emptying love, my mother often comes to mind. At the beginning of the lockdown in 2020, my mom flew across the country to move me out of my dorm room. She hadn’t slept, spent the morning helping me pack up my room, and even after I begged to take shifts of driving the U-Haul, did the entire trip herself from South Bend, Indiana back home to Virginia. The fact that she was there to begin with was sacrifice in itself; however, how she went about the sacrifice in a totally self-giving manner elevated her love in my eyes. Here, in this passage from John, we know that Jesus is about to make the ultimate sacrifice, but he doesn’t sit back and relish in his selflessness; he gets down and washes the feet of his disciples, including the feet of the very man who hands him over just verses later. He doesn’t lord his magnanimity over his disciples; he models for us what true love looks like. It looks like giving of ourselves without counting the cost.

I wonder what our families and our school would look like if we loved in this way. What would our days look like if, even knowing that an act will bring us great suffering, we run to meet each other’s needs willingly and enthusiastically?

Jesus, help me to love like you.

Good Friday First Reading Isaiah 52:13 – 53:12 See, my servant shall prosper, he shall be raised high and greatly exalted. Even as many were amazed at him—so marred were his features, beyond that of mortals his appearance, beyond that of human beings—So shall he startle many nations, kings shall stand speechless; For those who have not been told shall see, those who have not heard shall ponder it. Who would believe what we have heard? To whom has the arm of the LORD been revealed? He grew up like a sapling before him, like a shoot from the parched earth; He had no majestic bearing to catch our eye, no beauty to draw us to him. He was spurned and avoided by men, a man of suffering, knowing pain, like one from whom you turn your face, spurned, and we held him in no esteem. Yet it was our pain that he bore, our sufferings he endured. We thought of him as stricken, struck down by God and afflicted, but he was pierced for our sins, crushed for our iniquity. He bore the punishment that makes us whole, by his wounds we were healed. We had all gone astray like sheep, all following our own way; But the LORD laid upon him the guilt of us all. Though harshly treated, he submitted and did not open his mouth; Like a lamb led to slaughter or a sheep silent before shearers, he did not open his mouth. Seized and condemned, he was taken away. Who would have thought any more of his destiny? For he was cut off from the land of the living, struck for the sins of his people. He was given a grave among the wicked, a burial place with evildoers, though he had done no wrong, nor was deceit found in his mouth. But it was the LORD’s will to crush him with pain. By making his life as a reparation offering, he shall see his offspring, shall lengthen his days, and the LORD’s will shall be accomplished through him. Because of his anguish he shall see the light; because of his knowledge he shall be content; My servant, the just one, shall justify the many, their iniquity he shall bear. Therefore, I will give him his portion among the many, and he shall divide the spoils with the mighty, because he surrendered himself to death, was counted among the transgressors, Bore the sins of many, and interceded for the transgressors.

Good Friday Responsorial Psalm Psalm 31: 2, 6, 12-13, 15-16, 17, 25 In you, LORD, I take refuge; let me never be put to shame.

In your righteousness deliver me; Into your hands I commend my spirit; you will redeem me, LORD, God of truth.

To all my foes I am a thing of scorn, and especially to my neighbors a horror to my friends.

When they see me in public, they quickly shy away.

I am forgotten, out of mind like the dead; I am like a worn-out tool.

But I trust in you, LORD; I say, “You are my God.” My destiny is in your hands; rescue me from my enemies, from the hands of my pursuers.

Let your face shine on your servant; save me in your mercy.

Be strong and take heart, all who hope in the LORD.

Reflection

By Jennifer Stackpole When I picked this reflection, I was moved to tears at the relation to the Scripture as a teacher, parent and human. For the past year I have found myself in deep prayer often, I keep hearing, “I am with you”. I was meant to provide you with this reflection, and I hope it brings you comfort to know our Faith will strengthen us to endure and thrive during difficult times.

As teachers, we often feel the weight of responsibility—not just for academics but for shaping the hearts and minds of our students. Some days are rewarding, but others can be exhausting, thankless, and even discouraging. This passage from Isaiah describes the suffering servant—one who carries burdens, is rejected, and suffers for the sake of others. Sound familiar?

Jesus, the ultimate teacher, took on suffering for our salvation. He was misunderstood, mocked, and even betrayed, yet He remained faithful. In our classrooms, we might not face the same struggles, but we do experience moments of sacrifice. We stay up late grading papers, we listen to students' and colleagues’ personal struggles and sometimes face criticism from those who don’t see the passion behind our work. Like Christ, we are called to serve with love, even when it’s difficult.

Psalm 31 reminds us that even in suffering, we can trust God: "Into your hands, I commend my spirit."

(Psalm 31:6) You might also picture yourself crawling right into the cupped hands of the Lord when you are really struggling. He is there. (Psalm 17:8 Apple of your eye, shadow of your wings: images of God’s special care, cf. Dt 32:10; Prv 7:2; Is 49:2.)

During this Lenten season, let’s reflect: Are we offering our work as a sacrifice of love? Are we trusting God with our challenges? May we find strength in Jesus, the suffering servant, knowing that all our sacrifices make a difference in the lives of those we encounter.

Lord, in our daily struggles as teachers, help us to imitate Your patience and love. Strengthen us when we feel weary and remind us that every act of service brings us closer to You. Amen.

Good Friday Second Reading Hebrews 4: 14-16; 5: 7-9 Therefore, since we have a great high priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus, the Son of God, let us hold fast to our confession. For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who has similarly been tested in every way, yet without sin. So let us confidently approach the throne of grace to receive mercy and to find grace for timely help.

In the days when he was in the flesh, he offered prayers and supplications with loud cries and tears to the one who was able to save him from death, and he was heard because of his reverence. Son though he was, he learned obedience from what he suffered; and when he was made perfect, he became the source of eternal salvation for all who obey him.

Reflection

By Beth Royle “So let us confidently approach the throne of grace to receive mercy and to find grace for timely help.”

Lent is a season of drawing near to God and Hebrews 4:14-16 reminds us of the incredible gift we have in Jesus. He is our High Priest, appointed by God, yet He fully understands our struggles. He knows our weaknesses and our burdens because He has walked this path before us.

We must approach God with confidence and hold firmly to our faith. These verses emphasize the fact that we can persevere in times of trial because we are God’s beloved children. When we feel weak, He offers strength. When we stumble, He offers mercy. When things seem bleak, He offers light.

This Lent, let us remember that our faith sustains us and prayer will bring us closer to God. Let us not hesitate or feel unworthy, but instead, trust in the love and compassion of Jesus.

Hebrews 5:7-9 Hope in the Darkness “In the days when he was in the flesh, he offered prayers and supplications with loud cries and tears to the one who was able to save him from death, and he was heard because of his reverence.”

We have all experienced dark days. I lost my dad unexpectedly two February’s ago and the weight of that loss and grief can feel unbearable. But Hebrews 5:5-9 reminds us that even Jesus experienced deep suffering. He cried out to the Father with loud cries and tears. He knows what it means to feel overwhelmed.

Yet, in His suffering, Jesus remained faithful. Through the darkness, He trusted in God’s plan. He prayed and kept the faith that God would bring him eternal salvation. He inspires us to do the same. He gives us hope in the darkness.

Lent is a time to remember that when we struggle, we are not alone. Jesus understands our pain, and because of Him, there is always hope. Even in our worst moments, we turn to God knowing that He hears us. Light is always around the corner.

If today feels dark, hold on. Keep praying. God is working even in our pain, bringing grace, strength, and hope. Light is always around the corner.

Good Friday Gospel Reading John 18: 1 – 19: 42 When he had said this, Jesus went out with his disciples across the Kidron valley to where there was a garden, into which he and his disciples entered. Judas his betrayer also knew the place, because Jesus had often met there with his disciples. So Judas got a band of soldiers and guards from the chief priests and the Pharisees and went there with lanterns, torches, and weapons. Jesus, knowing everything that was going to happen to him, went out and said to them, “Whom are you looking for?” They answered him, “Jesus the Nazorean.” He said to them, “I AM.” Judas his betrayer was also with them. When he said to them, “I AM,” they turned away and fell to the ground. So he again asked them, “Whom are you looking for?” They said, “Jesus the Nazorean.” Jesus answered, “I told you that I AM. So if you are looking for me, let these men go.” This was to fulfill what he had said, “I have not lost any of those you gave me.”

Then Simon Peter, who had a sword, drew it, struck the high priest’s slave, and cut off his right ear. The slave’s name was Malchus. Jesus said to Peter, “Put your sword into its scabbard. Shall I not drink the cup that the Father gave me?”

So the band of soldiers, the tribune, and the Jewish guards seized Jesus, bound him, and brought him to Annas first. He was the father-in-law of Caiaphas, who was high priest that year. It was Caiaphas who had counseled the Jews that it was better that one man should die rather than the people.

Simon Peter and another disciple followed Jesus. Now the other disciple was known to the high priest, and he entered the courtyard of the high priest with Jesus. But Peter stood at the gate outside. So the other disciple, the acquaintance of the high priest, went out and spoke to the gatekeeper and brought Peter in. Then the maid who was the gatekeeper said to Peter, “You are not one of this man’s disciples, are you?” He said, “I am not.” Now the slaves and the guards were standing around a charcoal fire that they had made, because it was cold, and were warming themselves. Peter was also standing there keeping warm.

The high priest questioned Jesus about his disciples and about his doctrine. Jesus answered him, “I have spoken publicly to the world. I have always taught in a synagogue or in the temple area where all the Jews gather, and in secret I have said nothing. Why ask me? Ask those who heard me what I said to them. They know what I said.” When he had said this, one of the temple guards standing there struck Jesus and said, “Is this the way you answer the high priest?” Jesus answered him, “If I have spoken wrongly, testify to the wrong; but if I have spoken rightly, why do you strike me?” Then Annas sent him bound to Caiaphas the high priest.

Now Simon Peter was standing there keeping warm. And they said to him, “You are not one of his disciples, are you?” He denied it and said, “I am not.” One of the slaves of the high priest, a relative of the one whose ear Peter had cut off, said, “Didn’t I see you in the garden with him?” Again Peter denied it.

And immediately the cock crowed.

Then they brought Jesus from Caiaphas to the praetorium. It was morning. And they themselves did not enter the praetorium, in order not to be defiled so that they could eat the Passover. So Pilate came out to

them and said, “What charge do you bring [against] this man?” They answered and said to him, “If he were not a criminal, we would not have handed him over to you.” At this, Pilate said to them, “Take him yourselves, and judge him according to your law.” The Jews answered him, “We do not have the right to execute anyone,” in order that the word of Jesus might be fulfilled that he said indicating the kind of death he would die. So Pilate went back into the praetorium and summoned Jesus and said to him, “Are you the King of the Jews?” Jesus answered, “Do you say this on your own or have others told you about me?” Pilate answered, “I am not a Jew, am I? Your own nation and the chief priests handed you over to me. What have you done?” Jesus answered, “My kingdom does not belong to this world. If my kingdom did belong to this world, my attendants [would] be fighting to keep me from being handed over to the Jews. But as it is, my kingdom is not here.” So Pilate said to him, “Then you are a king?” Jesus answered, “You say I am a king. For this I was born and for this I came into the world, to testify to the truth.

Everyone who belongs to the truth listens to my voice.” Pilate said to him, “What is truth?”

When he had said this, he again went out to the Jews and said to them, “I find no guilt in him. But you have a custom that I release one prisoner to you at Passover. Do you want me to release to you the King of the Jews?” They cried out again, “Not this one but Barabbas!” Now Barabbas was a revolutionary.

Then Pilate took Jesus and had him scourged. And the soldiers wove a crown out of thorns and placed it on his head, and clothed him in a purple cloak, and they came to him and said, “Hail, King of the Jews!”

And they struck him repeatedly. Once more Pilate went out and said to them, “Look, I am bringing him out to you, so that you may know that I find no guilt in him.” So Jesus came out, wearing the crown of thorns and the purple cloak. And he said to them, “Behold, the man!” When the chief priests and the guards saw him they cried out, “Crucify him, crucify him!” Pilate said to them, “Take him yourselves and crucify him. I find no guilt in him.” The Jews answered, “We have a law, and according to that law he ought to die, because he made himself the Son of God.” Now when Pilate heard this statement, he became even more afraid, and went back into the praetorium and said to Jesus, “Where are you from?”

Jesus did not answer him. So Pilate said to him, “Do you not speak to me? Do you not know that I have power to release you and I have power to crucify you?” Jesus answered [him], “You would have no power over me if it had not been given to you from above. For this reason the one who handed me over to you has the greater sin.” Consequently, Pilate tried to release him; but the Jews cried out, “If you release him, you are not a Friend of Caesar. Everyone who makes himself a king opposes Caesar.” When Pilate heard these words he brought Jesus out and seated him on the judge’s bench in the place called Stone Pavement, in Hebrew, Gabbatha. It was preparation day for Passover, and it was about noon. And he said to the Jews, “Behold, your king!” They cried out, “Take him away, take him away! Crucify him!” Pilate said to them, “Shall I crucify your king?” The chief priests answered, “We have no king but Caesar.” Then he handed him over to them to be crucified.

So they took Jesus, and carrying the cross himself he went out to what is called the Place of the Skull, in Hebrew, Golgotha. There they crucified him, and with him two others, one on either side, with Jesus in the middle. Pilate also had an inscription written and put on the cross. It read, “Jesus the Nazorean, the King of the Jews.” Now many of the Jews read this inscription, because the place where Jesus was crucified was near the city; and it was written in Hebrew, Latin, and Greek. So the chief priests of the Jews said to Pilate, “Do not write ‘The King of the Jews,’ but that he said, ‘I am the King of the Jews.’” Pilate answered, “What I have written, I have written.” When the soldiers had crucified Jesus, they took his clothes and divided them into four shares, a share for each soldier. They also took his tunic, but the tunic

was seamless, woven in one piece from the top down. So they said to one another, “Let’s not tear it, but cast lots for it to see whose it will be,” in order that the passage of scripture might be fulfilled [that says]: “They divided my garments among them, and for my vesture they cast lots.” This is what the soldiers did.

Standing by the cross of Jesus were his mother and his mother’s sister, Mary the wife of Clopas, and Mary of Magdala. When Jesus saw his mother and the disciple there whom he loved, he said to his mother, “Woman, behold, your son.” Then he said to the disciple, “Behold, your mother.” And from that hour the disciple took her into his home. After this, aware that everything was now finished, in order that the scripture might be fulfilled, Jesus said, “I thirst.” There was a vessel filled with common wine. So they put a sponge soaked in wine on a sprig of hyssop and put it up to his mouth. When Jesus had taken the wine, he said, “It is finished.” And bowing his head, he handed over the spirit.

Now since it was preparation day, in order that the bodies might not remain on the cross on the sabbath, for the sabbath day of that week was a solemn one, the Jews asked Pilate that their legs be broken and they be taken down. So the soldiers came and broke the legs of the first and then of the other one who was crucified with Jesus. But when they came to Jesus and saw that he was already dead, they did not break his legs, but one soldier thrust his lance into his side, and immediately blood and water flowed out.

An eyewitness has testified, and his testimony is true; he knows that he is speaking the truth, so that you also may [come to] believe. For this happened so that the scripture passage might be fulfilled: “Not a bone of it will be broken.” And again another passage says: “They will look upon him whom they have pierced.”

After this, Joseph of Arimathea, secretly a disciple of Jesus for fear of the Jews, asked Pilate if he could remove the body of Jesus. And Pilate permitted it. So he came and took his body. Nicodemus, the one who had first come to him at night, also came bringing a mixture of myrrh and aloes weighing about one hundred pounds. They took the body of Jesus and bound it with burial cloths along with the spices, according to the Jewish burial custom. Now in the place where he had been crucified there was a garden, and in the garden a new tomb, in which no one had yet been buried. So they laid Jesus there because of the Jewish preparation day; for the tomb was close by.

Reflection 1

By Vicky Eichler John 18:1-11 Thinking about how Jesus was willing to face arrest, betrayal, and suffering is a powerful story of how his love for God was so unconditional. I am reminded of how I shy away from confrontations that I think will be difficult. I am envious of how Jesus remained calm and trusted in God’s will.

John 18:28-40 Thinking of how Jesus suffered declaring “it is finished” at the end tests my faith and I ask myself what I am willing to sacrifice for others. In my life I have never worried about where my next meal would come from or if I would sleep in a clean bed or have a shower with clean water that won’t make me sick. How can I conceive of how I would deal in a life-or-death situation? I worry about all the homeless people sleeping in the area around my home. Am I willing to even put myself in an uncomfortable place to help them. I think Jesus would even at risk to his own life.

John 19:31-42 After he was laid to rest in the tomb, I think of how God is there at all moments even the darkest ones.

Through his story I know we can trust in God to be there.

In these passages I see the depth of Jesus’ sacrifice and his love for us. He suffered for humanity, not in vain. I need to have faith in God’s plan.

Lord Jesus, I give you thanks for your Passion, Death, and Resurrection. Thank you for allowing me to share in your Passion, so that I may share in your Resurrection.

Reflection 2

By Michael Rauer When we attend the Good Friday services in our churches do we give much thought to the narrative and the sequence of events on this “Good” Friday? How do these events fit in with our own sense of consciousness? How would we have reacted had we been one of the followers of Our Blessed Lord some 2,000+ years ago?

It came to me, as I thought about what an appropriate reflection for this Good Friday reading would be, how would I have reacted if I were a follower of Jesus so long ago? Would I be like Saint Peter who became aggressive with a sword, would I have followed at a safe distance, or would I have fled for the darkness of anonymity? After all, a crowd came with both Roman soldiers and the Jewish Temple guards, all signs of authority. Not wanting to “rock the boat,” in the face of such power would I have easily escaped or in my historic moment, exhibited great courage, but at what price? Looking back over 2,000 years, it is easy for us as “armchair generals” to say or feel a false bravado, “I would have never deserted you Lord, you could have counted on me if I was with you in that situation”.

But if we fast forward to the present day, how have we responded in our daily lives to our society and culture? Do we stand up and be recognized as an authentic follower of Jesus? Are we willing to partake in a physical demonstration of our commitment to be a follower of Christ? Sadly, in this day and age, the secularism of the world has crept into nearly every aspect of life in our society. While it may not always be physically possible to march with a group of like-minded co-religionists, do we identify ourselves with a cross as a piece of jewelry around our necks or on our garments? Are we afraid of what someone might say?

Our Good Lord gives us many chances to start over again, much as He did with Saint Peter who denied Him three times. While we will not be subject to crucifixion, what are we afraid of? Our Blessed Lord has placed us in a country where we have the right to freedom of worship and of conscience. With this Easter Season, let us all make a resolution that we will stand up and be recognized as a follower of Christ.

And if we should fail in that regard, let us be like Saint Peter, who after three failures, did finally stand up and be recognized as a follower of Jesus. We must remember that in the end we will not be judged by the secular faces of our society, but we will be judged by the face of Our Lord, Jesus.

Easter Sunday First Reading Acts 10: 34a, 37-43 Then Peter proceeded to speak and said, “In truth, I see that God shows no partiality. What has happened all over Judea, beginning in Galilee after the baptism that John preached, how God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the holy Spirit and power. He went about doing good and healing all those oppressed by the devil, for God was with him. We are witnesses of all that he did both in the country of the Jews and (in) Jerusalem. They put him to death by hanging him on a tree. This man God raised (on) the third day and granted that he be visible, not to all the people, but to us, the witnesses chosen by God in advance, who ate and drank with him after he rose from the dead. He commissioned us to preach to the people and testify that he is the one appointed by God as judge of the living and the dead. To him all the prophets bear witness, that everyone who believes in him will receive forgiveness of sins through his name.”

Easter Sunday Responsorial Psalm Psalm 118: 1-2, 16-17, 22-23 Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good, his mercy endures forever.

Let Israel say: his mercy endures forever. the LORD’s right hand is raised; the LORD’s right hand works valiantly.”

I shall not die but live and declare the deeds of the LORD. The stone the builders rejected has become the cornerstone.

By the LORD has this been done; it is wonderful in our eyes.

Reflection

By Jennifer Grubb Much like Jesus, we are given the opportunity to support, encourage, and nurture our students, helping them overcome challenges and discover their potential.

Peter reminds us that we are also called to be witnesses of Christ’s resurrection. Just as the disciples ate and drank with Jesus after His resurrection, we too are invited to be close to Christ.

Peter reminds us that everyone who believes in him will receive forgiveness of sins through his name. As educators, we also have the chance to help our students understand the beauty of forgiveness—not only from God, but also towards others, and even themselves. We can help guide them to a deeper relationship with God, encouraging them to find strength in prayer, in faith, and in the knowledge that they are always loved, no matter what.

In a world that feels uncertain, we are called to be witnesses of the healing, love, and forgiveness that He offers to us all. May we take this passage to heart reflecting Christ’s light in everything we do and may we continue to be faithful to our vocation as teachers.

Easter Sunday Second Reading Colossians 3: 1-4 If then you were raised with Christ, seek what is above, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God. Think of what is above, not of what is on earth. For you have died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God. When Christ your life appears, then you too will appear with him in glory.

Reflection

By Nicole DiLorenzo When reflecting on some of the readings for Lent, Colossians 3:1-4 resonated with me. I believe we are called to live our lives for God, and everything we do should be aligned with His will. Growing up in Catholic school, I was taught that God is always watching us. Over time, doing the right thing in honor of God became an integral part of who I am. The integrity instilled in me by my faith has shaped my character and continues to guide my actions.

In this passage, Paul reminds us that “life is hidden with Christ in God.” We are called to seek what is good and Godly, such as things that instill love, happiness and positivity within us. This message speaks to me, especially in today’s world dominated by social media. It is disheartening to witness the amount of hatred and negativity in online interactions. It can be exhausting to read the hostile exchanges between people with opposing views. Is this what God has called us to do? Certainly not. Engaging in this negativity does nothing but bring us down. It is important that we not to get caught up in the chaos of the world but to focus on putting Christ first in our hearts. If Christ truly resides in your heart, your actions will reflect that, and there will be more love and understanding in the world.

Lord, I pray that your light shines through us and that more people open their hearts to You and to Jesus.

In a world filled with uncertainty, we need Your strength to navigate these challenging times. May the more hearts that welcome You, the brighter this world becomes. Amen.

Easter Sunday Gospel Reading John 20: 1-9 On the first day of the week, Mary of Magdala came to the tomb early in the morning, while it was still dark, and saw the stone removed from the tomb. So she ran and went to Simon Peter and to the other disciple whom Jesus loved, and told them, “They have taken the Lord from the tomb, and we don’t know where they put him.” So Peter and the other disciple went out and came to the tomb. They both ran, but the other disciple ran faster than Peter and arrived at the tomb first; he bent down and saw the burial cloths there, but did not go in. When Simon Peter arrived after him, he went into the tomb and saw the burial cloths there, and the cloth that had covered his head, not with the burial cloths but rolled up in a separate place. Then the other disciple also went in, the one who had arrived at the tomb first, and he saw and believed. For they did not yet understand the scripture that he had to rise from the dead.

Reflection

By Kathryn Rice Praise God! Thank you, Jesus! Alleluia!

Easter has always been my favorite holiday. I love the rejoicing that happens on this day, when we give thanks to God for sacrificing Himself so that we may have everlasting life.

I also love this time of year, when the Earth wakes up from its lengthy hibernation to reveal the treasures that have hidden in the dark, underneath a snow-covered ground. All winter, seeds have been germinating, small miracles of life happening all around and underneath us, though we can’t see or touch them until spring’s sunshine and rain usher them to the surface.

On Easter morning, the truth of the Resurrection of Jesus is at long last revealed to Mary and the disciples. Out of the darkness and suffering, rising above the crushing weight of grief and pain, comes the truth of Christ as Savior and King.

Several decades ago, Grammy Award-winning Christian singer, Sandi Patty, wrote a joyous Easter song that still gives me chills when I listen to it today. “Was It a Morning Like This” envisions that glorious moment we read about in the Gospel, when all is, at long last, revealed, and the Earth cannot contain its excitement any longer!

Was it a morning like this​ When Mary walked down from Jerusalem?​ And two angels stood at the tomb​ Bearers of news she would hear soon.

Did the grass sing?​ Did the earth rejoice to feel You again?

Over and over like a trumpet underground​ Did the earth seem to pound "He is risen!"​ Over and over in a never-ending round​ "He is risen! Alleluia! Alleluia! Alleluia!”