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From the Episcopal Diocese of Oregon web site Diocesan News Releases Alleluia, Christ is Risen! The Lord is Risen indeed, Alleluia. “If you have been raised with Christ, seek the things that are above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth, for you have died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God. When Christ who is your life is revealed, then you also will be revealed with him in glory.” Colossians 3:1-4 My Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
The Resurrection marks a new season in the liturgical calendar as well as in our own lives. It offers an opportunity for a fresh new start in knowing Christ and making the presence of Christ known in our own lives and in the communities in which we live. It represents an opportunity to recalibrate our lives and our priorities so that they are more in tune with God’s will. The season of Easter is especially a time for sharing joy. Just as the season of Lent has called us to repentance, forgiveness, reconciliation, and amendment of life, the season of Easter offers us a fresh start to live out in joy, the commitments we have made during Lent and Passiontide. It is a time not so much to dwell on the past, but through the workings of the Holy Spirit, rekindle new energies for mission and service to others. In our world today, as we continue to confront the evils of warfare, racism, classism, and other manifestations of sin, we have an opportunity to remember and rekindle the power within all of us to do good. In the midst of anxious voices that seek to diminish the rights of undocumented persons in our midst, we can continue to be the voice and conscience of a community that is committed to promoting justice, fairness, and affirming the dignity of all persons living in our country. At a time when some seem to be increasingly disenchanted by our political, social, and economic structures, we have the opportunity to be voices of reason, compassion, and reconciliation. The Resurrection of Jesus Christ is a testament of the power of God’s love to transcend and transform human lives. The great proclamation of Easter is a constant reminder of God’s love for each of us, for our nation, and for our world. It represents a reality that is larger than life and beyond our comprehension. Above all, it represents for each of us a renewed sense of belonging to God; reminding ourselves of our own responsibilities, gifts, and resources to more actively support our churches, our communities, and our world. Above all, in this season of many blessings, may we continue to share JOY! May the peace of Christ bring to you and your loved ones a deep sense of joy and peace, through the power of the Holy Spirit. Blessed Easter greetings to all! Faithfully yours in the Risen Christ, +Johncy Itty |
