April 12, 2020
Easter
Easter
A year ago at this time we watched in disbelief as the roof of the Cathedral of Notre Dame went up in flames and the Spire toppled. The next day when the fire subsided enough to allow some to enter into the nave of the medieval structure, a camera caught a beam of light shining through the dust illuminating the cross in the sanctuary.
A year later attempts to stabilize the remaining roof and scaffolding are on hold as the City of Paris is under strict constraint because of the Coronavirus. The world is sheltering in place trying to lessen the spread of a deadly contagious virus.
Both in Paris and here in WNY we are celebrating Easter at home hoping to see light shining on the cross of our affliction and lighting our way with hope of healing and renewal of daily life. We have lost our footing. So much is unsure. Like the Cathedral our health system is striving to hold together and not collapse.
On Holy Thursday, Good Friday and Holy Saturday we “remember†when the world of the disciples seems to come to ruin. After having a last supper together and vigil of prayer in the Garden, Jesus is arrested, tried and crucified. His death on the cross brings an end to their fellowship.
But on the third day, when women come to the tomb and find it empty, hope is kindled. Angels announce that Jesus is risen. He goes before them to Galilee. Jesus appears to them in Jerusalem. They remark: “Are not our hearts aglow when we reflect on Sacred Scripture and do we not recognize him in the Breaking of the Bread?â€
What is apparently lost is now found anew. Jesus, in his Spiritual/Resurrected Body, appears to them in ways they can’t imagine -- instilling resolve, courage and hope. Our Liturgy of the Last Supper, Death and Resurrection of Jesus, is more than a reenactment or commemoration of past events but our participation in the Pascal Mystery.
During this pandemic of fear and disease we become aware of light shining through the dust and illuminating the cross; we sense the presence of Jesus, the Risen One, in the heroic witness of many risking their lives to provide care and essential services; and, even when we are alone, we feel His abiding presence in those who call or text or tend to our needs with love and concern.
The Risen Lord is with us when we have eyes to see him, ears to hear his calming voice and hands to touch him in the afflicted. Today/Easter Sunday/April 12, 1:00 PM ET, we can see and hear a livestreaming of Andrea Bocelli in an empty Duomo Cathedral in Milan. Milan is at the epicenter of the Coronavirus outbreak in Italy. Bocelli, a blind opera singer, sees the light shining on the cross. “It is not a performance. It is not a concert. It is only a prayer.†People from around the word will be watching, listening and praying. Andrea is an Easter Angel announcing the Resurrection. Jesus is risen. Alleluia. Alleluia.
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