For the first time in several years, I’ve had the blessing to work with a group of people who are converting to the Catholic faith. We began meeting in October, and we had our last regular session yesterday, Palm Sunday.
This week is rich with ritual, symbol and sacrament. Beginning yesterday, Christians throughout the world remember Jesus’ passion and death, and we also remember the institution of the Priesthood and Eucharist. Finally on Holy Saturday, we celebrate the Resurrection of the Lord. Those throughout the world, millions of people who have been learning, praying and discerning, will receive the Easter Sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation, and Eucharist. Others, already baptized, will make a profession of faith and receive the Sacraments of Confirmation and Eucharist.
May these holy days leading up to Easter be filled with peace and consolation for all these wonderful people, including those I’ve had the privilege to walk with these many months, so that together, throughout the whole world, we can celebrate the Resurrection of our Lord.
Let us also pray for the people of Ukraine and those who find themselves in difficult situations, including violence, poverty, illness, and loss of loved ones. May they link their suffering to that of Jesus, our merciful Savior.