Sunday, April 19

In Today’s Gospel, we hear the beautiful and familiar story of the disciples on the road to Emmaus (Luke 24:13-35). Two followers of Jesus are walking away from Jerusalem, discouraged and confused by all that has happened. Though the had heard reports of the Resurrection, their hearts were heavy, and they struggled to believe. As they walked, Jesus Himself drew near and accompanied them, et they did not recognize Him.

How often this mirrors our own lives. We walk through moments of uncertainty, disappointment, or even grief, and we wonder where God is. Like the disciples, we may not realize that Christ is already walking beside us, listening, guiding, and gently revealing Himself. It is only when Jesus breaks open the Scriptures and later breaks bread with them that their eyes are opened. In that moment, they recognize Him and everything changes.

The Gospel reminds us that we encounter the risen Christ in two profound ways: In the Word and in the Eucharist. Each time we gather for Mass, the Scriptures are opened to us, and the Bread of Life is broken. Like the disciples at Emmaus, out hearts are invited to burn within us as we recognize the Lord present among us.

As we continue to celebrate the joy of Easter, may we ask for the grace to recognize Jesus walking with us in our daily lives, especially in moments when He seems hidden. And may our encounter with Him in Word and Sacrament strengthen us to go forth and proclaim: “The Lord has truly been raised!”

We also extend our sincere gratitude to Fr. Drew Tanguay for his thoughtful and inspiring homilies during our annual Forty Hours Devotions. His words helped deepen our prayer and draw us more fully into the presence of the Lord.

We are equally grateful to all of our parishioners and staff who contributed in any way during this sacred time. Whether through prayer, service, preparation, or participation, your efforts made this a truly grace-filled experience for our entire parish community.

May the blessings of the risen Christ continue to strengthen and unite us as we journey together in faith.

Fr. Matthew R. Larlick