What does imperishable and perishable mean? St. Peter in today’s second reading speaks of this, that during our sojourning (living our lives), we were ransomed (saved) by the blood of Christ—not by silver and gold—which he says is perishable while Christ’s blood is imperishable.
 
I looked up these words in Webster. Perishable: subject to decay and destruction, to disappear (perish)—to expire, wither, shrivel, molder, vanish. St. Peter reminds us that Jesus was the spotless, unblemished lamb. Imperishable: not perishable, indestructible, enduring. Even gold and silver will fade away, unlike the saving grace of Christ. Because of this, St. Peter reminds us to place our faith and hope in God alone and always.
 
I find the words of St. Peter comforting as I go about my daily life. It’s comforting to know that while all other things perish and come to an end—God’s love for us does not. It means we can be serious but not take ourselves too seriously. We can have damaged lives in the now but know that God makes all things new. We can be sure that though the world overwhelms our senses and disturbs our minds, God’s love and mercy for us will endure through all trials and tribulations. Is that not a comfort?
 
In the Acts of the Apostles today, St. Peter quotes David saying: I saw the Lord ever before me, with him at my right hand I shall not be disturbed. Therefore my heart has been glad and my tongue exulted; my flesh, too, will dwell in hope…” He says we will not be abandoned, and God will fill us with the joy of His presence.
 
Today on the road to Emmaus two of Jesus’ Disciples meet Him and later realize their hearts were burning within them while He spoke to them, and how He was made known in the breaking of the bread. We, too, may experience this burning of our hearts for God as we receive our imperishable Eucharist. We will be strengthened in joy and live in hope. No matter what.
Keep singing!

​Elizabeth Dyc

In the Apostolic Letter Dies Domini of the Saint Pope John Paul II, we are told that the weekly return of Sunday recalls the day of Christ’s resurrection. It is Easter every Sunday, really, as we celebrate Christ’s victory over sin and death! It is appropriate that on the Second Sunday of the Easter Season (Divine Mercy Sunday), our Psalm is the same one as on Easter Sunday (The Resurrection of the Lord)--Psalm 118 (a psalm of joy and thankfulness that God’s love for us is everlasting). Considering God’s divine mercy, we may sing joyfully, with full hearts and voices.
 
With this new liturgical season of the Easter Season we see the return of the Gloria and the Gospel Acclamation of “Alleluia!”  During this season we may be reminded each week of our baptismal promises (in the Sprinkling Rite). This is important; because in today’s Gospel we hear the familiar story of “Doubting Thomas.” We know that in dark moments we are all Thomas; but in the gathering of Community, in the Word and the Eucharist, and through God’s divine mercy, we are strengthened in faith.
 
I am genuinely amazed by the vitality of commitment to our Parish Community by the many ministries that are at work here at St. Aidan. This past Holy Week is an example of the dedication of all our liturgical and non-liturgical groups. If you think back on the entire week’s schedule of activities and liturgies—of the preparation, planning and implementation of all that took place here—it is truly amazing! I would like to particularly thank those with whom I work personally: the members of the St. Aidan Music Ministry, most especially our Adult Choir. Bravo! Above and beyond!
 
Everything that takes place in our parish is collaborative: the staff (parish, office, maintenance), all of the other liturgical ministries aside from our Music Ministry (all of the lectors, ushers, servers, Eucharistic Ministers, and the lovely and creative work of the enhancement of the worship spaces), all the charitable organizations, the different commissions and councils, and You—the worshipping Community itself—is an example in participation, cooperation and teamwork. It is truly amazing what is accomplished by invested, dedicated and committed persons! And for all those who benefit directly and indirectly it is a miracle, a mystery, a mercy and a grace!
 
Today we hear in the Gospel how we must walk by faith, not by sight. In the time I have been here at St. Aidan, and last week in particular, I actually saw plenty that was uplifting for my faith. This is the divine mercy of God in the gift of his Son in all his manifestations─but most especially here in the people of this Community where I work and worship.
God bless you and keep singing!

​Elizabeth Dyc