Easter Sunday: The Resurrection of the Lord

'On the first day of the week, Mary of Magdala came to the tomb early in the morning, while it was still dark, and saw the stone removed from the tomb.' John 20:1

On this day of the resurrection of the Lord we are called to believe what Mary has seen: He is risen. We are called from our closed in places to accompany Mary, sometimes weeping, always searching, and ultimately blinded, surprised and moved with joy at Jesus’s new life. Yes Risen!

The Resurrection is a message of tremendous joy. Easter Sunday was the most joyful day in the lives of the disciples. It’s the most joyful day of the Christian life.

‘Joy undergirds Jesus’s preaching, is the fruit of most of his miracles, and is the most natural response to the Resurrection. The word ‘joy’ or ‘rejoice’ is mentioned often in the Gospels…

“You have pain now; but I will see you again, and your hearts will rejoice, and no one will take your joy from you.”

“The disciples rejoiced when they saw the Lord.”

“Ask and you will receive, so that your joy may be complete.”

from James Martin SJ: Jesus a pilgrimage.

This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad. Psalm 118.

Full text of Pope Francis' homily at the Easter vigil 2022 HERE

Music

Christ the Lord is Risen Today is a rousing hymn. Looking for a big sound complete with orchestra and bellringers?

Try the Tabernacle Choir of 2019 HERE

Another wonderful song of joyful praise is All Creatures of our God and King.

The Tabernacle choir of 2020 sing it HERE 

In Christ Alone is a contemporary hymn sung with great power and passion. HERE

Psalm 118: This is the day the Lord has made.

A version here with solo voice and words on screen. HERE

Homily Studio podcast for a 30 minute conversation on the scriptures for Easter Sunday. HERE

‘’Joy is the echo of God’s life in us.”