Easter is the greatest feast in the Church—actually it’s the commemoration of the greatest event in history. Without it all our faith would be in vain (1 Cor 15:14-17). Easter is the celebration of our redemption. On Good Friday Jesus made satisfaction for our sins, and this continues to happen in each and every Mass throughout the world. His Death conquered sin. He conquered the effects of sin: death itself when He rose on the third day. Through Baptism we become members of the Body of Christ. Therefore, we will share in His Resurrection provided that we remain living members and do not become dead members through serious sin. Yet, even when a person dies to the life of Christ, it can easily be restored to life through the Sacrament of Reconciliation or Penance. Confession is so readily available for us because Jesus loves us so much and does not want even one person to be lost because of serious sins.
The Resurrection took place after the Passover Feast which took place after the first full moon of spring. The word “Easter" is not a Christian term. It was the pagan name for a goddess of the dawn or spring. Because the old pagan rites of spring coincided with Our Lord's rising from the dead, "Easter" came to mean the celebration of the Resurrection. There is a good feeling that usually comes with the warmer weather and longer days of spring. This is really nothing in comparison with the joy of knowing that Christ lives and that we have everlasting life because we are united with Him.
May not one of us die through sin. May we each always be live members of the Body of our risen Lord.
Fr. Stanley Kostrzomb
