Happy Easter!
This year, all that is happening on a global level leads us to turn to the Resurrected Christ to ask him for healing and peace. The war in Ukraine, the upheaval of a sixth wave of COVID-19, economic uncertainty… these are just a few examples of distressing situations before which we may feel powerless.
Yet, each of us – in our own way – is invited to become an instrument of peace. Why not let the light of Easter illuminate our relationships and our everyday actions? The best way to defeat trends that promote individualism rather than fraternity, or cruelty rather than joy, is to welcome the light of the Resurrected Christ into the most tangible areas of our lives. How can we not notice that winds of rebirth are blowing through our world? Steps toward reconciliation with Indigenous peoples, apologies offered by the Pope and international solidarity to end the war are just a few examples of the light of Christ at work. May these breakthroughs at the international level inspire us to make similar advances in our families, our communities and our workplaces.
The articles in this newsletter are invitations to give thanks for God’s love, which is revealed in us and around us. With Saint Francis of Assisi, let us ask that our daily lives shine with the light of Easter. The prayer attributed to Saint Francis gives us a key for the world to be transformed, one heart at a time!
Lord, make me an instrument of your peace. Where there is hatred, let me sow love. Where there is injury, let me sow pardon. Where there is conflict, let me sow unity…
Brothers and sisters, let us dare to be reborn. May we allow ourselves to be transformed by the light of Easter!
Fr. Pierre Charland, OFM
Minister Provincial