Dear Community and Friends of the Church of St. Francis of Assisi,

May the Lord give you peace.

Happy Easter! Alleluia! Alleluia!

Easter is fifty days! We have just begun our celebration. Blessings and thanks to all who were able to join us for the Sacred Triduum.

Special thanks to:

the musicians under Meredith’s direction.

They were outstanding. The music brought us into the depth of the experiences of each day.

Our countless volunteers under Ed’s direction:

Lectors proclaimed the Word with grace and dignity.
Hospitality ministers graciously greeted and assisted participants (and took up the collection).
Altar servers provided graceful assistance for the liturgies.
Good Friday Cross bearers engaged us in the mystery of the cross.
Ministers of the Eucharist, like the early disciples, distributed the gifts.
Ministers of the Live-stream connection for many people.
Our sacristans made sure that we were prepared for each celebration.
Our foot washers and assistants.

Our RCIA team, under Joe’s direction:

Nurtured the journey of our newly baptized members and members received into the church.
Worked throughout the year to support all seeking Communion with us.
Allowing themselves to be transformed in the journey.
Assisted in decorating the Church on Holy Saturday afternoon.

Our maintenance crew!

Set up the pool and all the major pieces needed for each celebration.
Made the Church and Hall welcoming spaces for us.

Finally, my brothers, the friars, for their presence and affirmation of the Franciscan vision of God’s great love for us.

All of you who came to watch and pray.

You are the great gift of God for the Church of St. Francis of Assisi. It was amazing to see so many people. Everyone was engaged and actively participating. We had visitors from around the world and from around the city. All giving praise to God.

Alleluia! This was just the beginning. We are on our way to Pentecost opening our hearts to the wonders of the Holy Spirit already given yet being fanned into flame anew as we give thanks for the gift of God in Jesus. In love, he gave himself for us. In love, he was raised for us. In love, he breathed the Holy Spirit upon us forever! Alleluia! Let us celebrate with lives of praise.

Blessings of Easter,
Fr. Tom, ofm