The great feast of Easter has begun!

The great feast of Easter has begun! Let us rejoice and be glad! Just as we took on the discipline and fasting of Lent, let us take on the joy and feasting that the next 50 days bring!  Alleluia!

Mary Magdalene, Peter, and the other apostles, were passionate about the Risen Jesus. We have this same passion and the same determination. 

One of the greatest signs of our passion is the presence in our parish of nearly 40 catechumens and candidates who were baptized into the life, death and resurrection of Jesus or presented for full communion with us during the great Easter Vigil.  These catechumens and candidates - our relatives, neighbors and friends - joined with catechumens and candidates from around the world in numbers that we have not seen in years.  They are publicly professing their faith in Jesus Christ and taking their place with us in Jesus' body, the Church.  In the midst of political divisions and war, they see beyond — to Jesus, the Savior of the world! Thanks so much to John and Amee Cave, Vicki Arndt, and their wonderful team for all their love and service!

As Pastor of this great local church of Castle Rock, I am so moved by the example of your lives. In the midst of all that life throws at you, you live your faith and fulfill the promises of your Baptism. You serve your brothers and sisters like Saint Francis of Assisi, our Patron Saint.  And you find hope from a living relationship with the Body and Blood of the risen Christ.

During this Easter Season, let’s appreciate more deeply than ever how truly blessed we are.  Trust in Jesus’ promise to sustain you and dispel any fear. Open your heart to the risen Jesus and allow him to fill you with his peace.  Invite someone else to join us and walk with them.

May Jesus bless you with peace!

Fr. Mark Zacker

Pastor