Dear friends in Christ,
The Lord is truly risen, Alleluia!
The joy of Easter morning brings new hope to all believers. Yes, when everyone thought all was finished when Jesus was laid to rest in the tomb, hopes were dashed, morale was low, and spirits sank into despair. Yet despite an apparent victory of death over life, signs indicate otherwise. Like the light of dawn that overpowers the darkness of night, the Risen Lord breaks open the tomb and frees us from all dominion of evil over us. The promise of eternal life is proclaimed loud and clear for all those who believe. In Christ Jesus, a new world begins. In Christ Jesus, we are made new creations as our personal lives are renewed in the waters of baptism. All are given a chance to taste the gift of salvation. Let us enter into the joy of Easter and witness to the new life received in Jesus the Risen Lord. Are we not given a transformative power? Let us be bold, and as Church, build with Christ the Kingdom of God.
“This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad. Alleluia!”
✠ Marcel Damphousse
Archbishop of Ottawa-Cornwall
