I have no idea how many people read this blog or every look at our website.
But I say to each of those that do (Hi Mom!), if you don't have a church home, please accept my invitation to come to Emmanuel this Easter Sunday at 8 am, 9:30 am or 11 am.
You'll be welcomed. Hopefully God will speak to your heart that day and give you peace or a lift you and your family have needed.
You might be thinking, “Tom, have you lost your mind? Easter was last Sunday.” Well, if you are thinking that I am happy to tell you that I have not lost my mind. Easter is not a single day, but a season of the church year. If you missed Easter Sunday due to some conflict, the good news is that you have another chance. Come this Sunday. It is still Easter in our Parish!
The feast of Easter is a season of fifty days, from Easter Eve through the Day of Pentecost. From early times the Greek word Pentecost (fiftieth day) was used also for the whole Easter (or Paschal) season. During this season there is no fasting, every color seems to be white or gold, the Paschal candle (the huge candle we light at Baptisms) is burning at all services of the Easter season, and we say alleluia as much as we can.
So, if you missed it because you are not a fan of big crowds, I have good news for you. The Sunday after the first Sunday of Easter is typically the lowest attended of the church year. If you missed it because you forgot to buy new clothes for the big day, the good news is most of the people who show up this Sunday will just be back to dressing like their normal selves. If you haven’t been to church in a while, I think you will receive a measure of peace from the time of worship.
See you in church!
Fr. Tom +