Sunday, April 24, 2011

Easter Message 2011 - Bishop Alan Abernethy

Having just returned from the Holy Land, the events of Easter are very fresh in my mind. 

To have been able to visit some of the various sites in Jerusalem and Galilee was such a joy and challenge. 

There was a paradox at the heart of my experiences in being part of the diocesan pilgrimage. 

The paradox was remembering the wonder of the word made flesh being present in the division and pain of our humanity.

That hurt and inhumanity was very real during our trip with the dreadful bombing in Jerusalem. 

Please pray for Mary’s family as they struggle with grief and loss. 

In the middle of the turmoil there was also a profound sense of God being present in the mess. 

The wonder of Easter is the most profound paradox. 

The awfulness of Good Friday is seen through the tearful eyes of grief as the joy of Easter Day dawned. 

May you experience the wonder of God’s paradox this Easter.

+Alan