Spring anthems of Alleluia: Easter 2015

During Easter Sunday liturgy, most of us probably won’t hear that day’s Entrance Antiphon proclaimed because we’ll be singing an entrance hymn.

Too bad – because the entrance antiphon is a lovely dialogue between Jesus and an anonymous follower.

Jesus: “I have risen, and I am with you still, alleluia!”

Follower: “You have laid your hand upon me, alleluia! Too wonderful for me, this knowledge, alleluia, alleluia.”

I love this short exchange between Jesus and a believer because it is reassuring and tender on the part of Jesus and gracious, confident and humble on the part of Jesus’ disciple.

I like to imagine myself as this follower, this disciple.

How wonderful to be reassured — once again this Easter — that Jesus has been raised, has disappeared from the tomb AND with me/us still. Like the contemporary friends, family and followers of Jesus, I too will and do experience the presence of Jesus in the most surprising times and places. When I participate in liturgy at St. Mary’s Village Church, the Body of Christ is alive, well and vibrant. Elders, parents and offspring of all ages, a few sisters from our motherhouse, SMWC college students — all gathered to be and to receive the Body of Christ.

I feel the touch of Jesus very often in the presence of our elder sisters. They are experts in encouragement conveyed by a touch on the shoulder, a hand on my arm, a smile that comes from the light in their hearts and shines through their eyes. I am strengthened, encouraged and humbled when one after the other says to me, “I pray for you every day.” Yes — all of these moments are moments of being touched by Jesus — assured of being a valued part of that living body.

Walking outside here at St. Mary-of-the-Woods is to be surrounded by the beauty and nearness of the Body of God. In any season, the Woods “proclaims the greatness of God” but during spring anthems of ALLELUIA surround us. Before our eyes, life overcomes death.

May you and yours experience the gentle touch of the living Jesus during this lovely season of Easter! May all of us revel in the renewal of life evident all around us. May we take a moment to pause and enjoy however spring manifests itself in your piece of the world. May we, from the deepest part of us, sing “Alleluia!”

Happy Easter to you from the Sisters of Providence!