SECOND SUNDAY OF EASTER

The Middlers read Sunday’s gospel in parts. We heard Jesus break into the fear of his disciples through doors that had locked them into hiding. And we heard Thomas in his own fear bluster about the need for proof. The Middlers understood that this story about Easter Sunday evening nailed it when it described the human reaction to fear. We either hide from it or cover it up with false bravado. And Jesus’ reaction? To those cowering in the corner, it’s, “Peace.” But it’s not a peace that says calm down, it’s a peace that says get ready. Jesus sees that like all of us the disciples’ real fear is that they are not good enough. They just didn’t have what it takes to go on. And Jesus tells them they will go on with the Spirit in them. Indeed, they are good enough! But what will keep them good enough is their readiness to forgive each other—never better than anyone else, we each become good enough together.

And Thomas, humbled out of his fear and into reality by what he sees, becomes the promise of what is to come. The promise that there will be plenty of us to follow with the same chance to believe, as long as we are convinced that only through forgiveness are we a Church good enough to become the foundation of the Kingdom of God.

The Elementaries heard the Tale of Three Trees. Ask them how each tree out of ambition to be better than anyone else almost missed the chance to cradle and carry and proclaim the Best.

CALENDAR REMINDERS

1. 
   
   
   The last three days of KidsRelig will be April 24, 25 and 26, when we will have our Annual Funraiser


2. 
   
   
   Rehearsals for First Communion will be May 1, 3, 8 and 10, at 3:45 to 4:45 pm. There is NO BUS TRANSPORTATION on those days. Tuesday Rehearsals (5/1, 8) are for the 9:30 Mass & Thursday Rehearsals (5/3, 10) are for the 11:30 Mass.


3. 
   
   
   First Communion: May 12, 9:30 & 11:30

Second Annual Pillows for Puppies
Building Up Creation

The McCarthy-LePage Family is again spearheading an effort to protect rescued dogs and puppies. There will soon appear a big box in the Front Hall of the Upper Church to accept donations of pillows, blankets, towels, dog food and more. Information will be posted on the box explaining this effort and the items needed. In this Easter Season, our call to new life challenges us to build up the earth and care for all its creatures.

Love,
Deacon Charlie