Easter 2023 message: We can call be saints in our community if we answer the Lord’s call

“He has risen from the dead and now is going before you to Galilee, it is there you will see him”. These words spoken by the angel of the Lord immediately scattered the darkness of despair for the women coming to visit Jesus’ tomb. They were then filled with “awe and great joy”, and ran to tell their friends, the disciples. They all had seen him die on the cross in the dark events of Good Friday, but now they were joyful messengers of a new reality, that Jesus was and always will be present with them. In reflecting on the women’s total despair turning to overwhelming joy, I thought of the people I have seen and met with in the the past year in the varied communities of faith within the Dioceses of Geraldton and Broome. What I have seen is faith, joy, hope and a deep connection with their communities despite challenging circumstances and situations. I have seen many making decisions and choices based on their relationship with Jesus. I have witnessed living saints in these communities, supporting one another to remain people of hope and joy. These people were, “. . . available to answer His call and to live united to the Lord in the most common daily things . . . allowing ourselves to be guided always by the Holy Spirit” — Pope Francis. Let us bless one another this Easter with our kindness and compassion and I pray that the blessings of Jesus, the Risen Lord, will be with you through all the seasons of your life.