He Is Risen: Embracing the Joy of Easter in the Catholic Faith
“Why do you seek the living among the dead? He is not here, but has risen.” – Luke 24:5-6
Easter is not just one feast day among many—it is the feast, the heart of the liturgical year, the celebration that gives meaning to all others. As Catholics, we proclaim with joyful hearts: Christ is risen, Alleluia! His resurrection is the cornerstone of our faith, the triumph of light over darkness, life over death.
The Fulfillment of the Promise
The journey to Easter begins in the desert of Lent, where we are called to prayer, fasting, and almsgiving. It continues through the sorrow of Holy Week, where we walk with Christ through His Passion and death. And it bursts forth in glory on Easter Sunday, when the stone is rolled away and the tomb is found empty.
The resurrection of Jesus is not a mere symbol—it is a historical and spiritual reality. In rising from the dead, Christ has conquered sin and opened the gates of Heaven. His victory is our hope. St. Paul reminds us, “If Christ has not been raised, then our preaching is in vain and your faith is in vain” (1 Corinthians 15:14). But Christ has been raised, and so we rejoice.
Celebrating the Easter Season
Easter is not just a single day—it is a season that stretches for 50 days, from Easter Sunday to Pentecost. This extended celebration reminds us that the resurrection is not something to be glanced at and then forgotten. It is the new reality in which we now live.
During this season, the Church is clothed in white and gold, symbols of purity and glory. The Alleluia, silenced during Lent, returns to our lips with renewed vigor. The Paschal Candle burns brightly, a sign of the Risen Christ among us. The readings at Mass recount the joy and mission of the early Church, as the apostles go out to spread the Good News.
Living the Resurrection
As Catholics, Easter calls us not only to celebrate but to live the resurrection. That means letting the joy and hope of Christ’s victory shape our daily lives. It means forgiving as we have been forgiven, loving as we have been loved, and bearing witness to the truth that death is not the end.
We are an Easter people, and Alleluia is our song. But that song must be more than words—it must become a way of life. In our families, our parishes, and our communities, we are called to be signs of the resurrection, bringing light where there is darkness and hope where there is despair.
A Time to Rejoice
This Easter, let us open our hearts anew to the power of Christ’s resurrection. Let us allow the joy of the empty tomb to fill our homes and our hearts. Let us live as people who know that love has won, and that the grave has no final say.
May the Risen Lord bless you and your loved ones with peace, hope, and a renewed faith.
He is risen indeed. Alleluia!
Wishing everyone a blessed and safe Easter from your friends at Bon Secours Retreat & Conference Center! ✝