Dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ,
Eastertime comes to us all with the glorious announcement of the women who are first to witness to the empty tomb, early in the morning. Mary Magdalene and the other Mary are the first to be sent by the Risen Jesus: “Do not be afraid; go and tell my brothers to go to Galilee; there they will see me.” (Matthew 28:10).
Yes, He is Risen! The Prince of Peace, with the Cross’ painful effects still visible on his body, and his last words echoing for all time from the cross: “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” (Matthew 27:46). This desperate cry, which is the prayer of millions of people today in the wars and conflicts of our times, is heard by our God.
Pain and death do not have the final word. But rather, the final word is the love and mercy that is alive in the person of Jesus, who greets us at each encounter: “Peace be with you” (John 20:21). This encounter with the Risen Jesus is the inspirational hope of the newly baptized this Easter, and the hope of all the faithful around the world who bear Christ’s peace with persevering confidence.
Happy Easter,
Most Reverend Gary Gordon
Bishop of Victoria
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