Blessed and Happy Easter!

04-12-2020From Fr. Antony's DeskFr. John Barbella

I had the pleasure of speaking on the phone with my mom on Palm Sunday afternoon. We spoke – among other things – of how odd it was to celebrate Palm Sunday without visiting. We spoke as well about how different Easter will be this year.

The good news is that it was not a sad conversation – as we all understand that this is simply how it must be right now. I’m sure many of you feel the same way. Being with family and friends is a big part of our Easter celebration. But, if we have to stay home to keep our loved ones safe, it’s a sacrifice we’re willing to make.

Perhaps the sacrifices we’re forced to make right now can serve to remind us of the sacrifice Jesus made for us when He died on the Cross. And just as Jesus’ sacrifice led to the glory of His Resurrection – so the sacrifices we make today will lead to many blessings. As the Father raised Jesus from the dead – so will He raise us up from the suffering and sacrifice we make today.

While you’re sheltering at home, remember that you can watch our Sunday Mass on the parish website – spsj.org. Many people have told me that they are thankful to see Mass from our parish – which I am certainly happy to hear. God willing – it will not be too long before we can gather in Church to celebrate Mass together again.

Remember that as Catholics, we celebrate Easter not just for a day but for a season of fifty days. The joy of Jesus’ Resurrection is so great that we celebrate it for a long time. One way to do this at home might be to have some Easter decorations – or even a small altar set up for this time. Anything that reminds you of the Resurrection – and the hope it gives us for Eternal Life – would be a good idea.

Finally, I want to thank all of you who have mailed in envelopes or given to our Church online at this time. It is a very big help!

I am pleased that – in the spirit of generosity that Jesus showed on Good Friday – a man who grew up and attended school in our parish has offered to match, dollar for dollar, every gift to our Easter collection – up to $30,000. His generosity stems from the faith he learned here at St. Philip and St. James. You can mail in your Easter donations or give them online, if you haven’t done so already. Again – thanks!

Thanks also to all of you who kindly called or sent messages to ask how we at the rectory are doing. The short answer is that we are well – but miss seeing everyone! May our good God bring us quickly thru the current crisis and grow our faith in the process.

Please say a Hail Mary for me today – and one for the sick and those caring for them.

Happy Easter!

Fr. John

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