EASTER MESSAGE 2022
Dear Sisters and Brothers in the Diocese of Peterborough,
One of the most common refrains in Lent is “We adore you, O Christ, and we praise you; for by your holy cross, you have redeemed the world.” This Lenten theme culminates in Holy Week, where the cross of the Lord is so pivotal. It is prominent in the Passion readings of Palm Sunday and Good Friday. At the Mass of the Lord’s Supper on Holy Thursday, the shadow of the cross looms, even as Jesus gathers at table with his apostles. And the solemn act of the veneration of the cross on Good Friday is always one of the most moving gestures of Holy Week — indeed, of the entire Church year.
Then on Easter Sunday, we rejoice that through his cross and resurrection, Jesus has brought about the salvation of the world. By conquering death, he has bestowed the fullness of life. An instrument of torture and death is transformed into a means of grace, pardon, peace and reconciliation. And in giving his life for us, Jesus asks us to live our lives for others. He invites us to take up our cross and imitate him in his self-sacrificing love. We rejoice to share in his resurrection, knowing that he calls us to share in his work of salvation on Good Friday.
May the Paschal mystery that we celebrate fill our hearts with joy, strengthen our faith, and renew our commitment to sacrificial love. And may God bless you and yours abundantly in this holiest season of the Church’s year.
Yours in Christ,
+Most. Rev. Daniel Miehm Bishop of Peterborough