There is a newness that comes every Easter, but this year we are emerging from a trauma, one that the entire planet shared in. The new light of Christ at the Easter Vigil is spreading across our planet, as we welcome new members to our Faith. As individuals we can use this Easter to reconnect with Christ in gratitude for what we have survived. Just as importantly, we need to reignite some of our old members too. Reach out and invite friends to Mass. Easter might be the first time that some receive the real presence of Jesus in the Eucharist in more than a year. Pray with me that this experience of Christ will enliven them and each of us as the Holy Spirit works to bring us closer.
Before we plow forward and emerge this Easter, think about what this year has taught us. While we may have drifted away from some people, others in our “Bubble” were brought closer. We developed new routines and if you have a family in your house, you certainly spent more time with them. During the lockdown, I learned how precious a few hours of relaxing each day brought joy to life and I try to resist 10-12-hour workdays. I learned to care for others. With every correspondence, I inquired how they were doing instead of keeping it to business. And I got to attend Daily Mass. Nobody I know has been to more Masses than me this year! And I am one by one reconnecting with friends and each has been a fantastic reminder of how vital our relationships are in bringing joy. My life is better because of the struggle of the past year.
This Easter, I have a favor to ask, especially of all of you who find yourselves at home more. Normally our kids and teens and young adults are quite resilient, but a year long crisis has taken its toll on many, no, rather most. Some did not advance in their education, some even regressed psychologically, and all missed out on at least one thing they would normally look forward to. Not only do they need your prayers, but they need your personal attention. When you see them, especially at Mass, let them know who you are, and that you have been praying for them. Start a relationship with them too, so they look forward to seeing you next week. Any kind interaction you can think of will be welcomed. We are a community that has gone a long time with out even shaking hands. Use what you can to hug one another.
Paul Pyrkosz
Before we plow forward and emerge this Easter, think about what this year has taught us. While we may have drifted away from some people, others in our “Bubble” were brought closer. We developed new routines and if you have a family in your house, you certainly spent more time with them. During the lockdown, I learned how precious a few hours of relaxing each day brought joy to life and I try to resist 10-12-hour workdays. I learned to care for others. With every correspondence, I inquired how they were doing instead of keeping it to business. And I got to attend Daily Mass. Nobody I know has been to more Masses than me this year! And I am one by one reconnecting with friends and each has been a fantastic reminder of how vital our relationships are in bringing joy. My life is better because of the struggle of the past year.
This Easter, I have a favor to ask, especially of all of you who find yourselves at home more. Normally our kids and teens and young adults are quite resilient, but a year long crisis has taken its toll on many, no, rather most. Some did not advance in their education, some even regressed psychologically, and all missed out on at least one thing they would normally look forward to. Not only do they need your prayers, but they need your personal attention. When you see them, especially at Mass, let them know who you are, and that you have been praying for them. Start a relationship with them too, so they look forward to seeing you next week. Any kind interaction you can think of will be welcomed. We are a community that has gone a long time with out even shaking hands. Use what you can to hug one another.
Paul Pyrkosz
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