April 3rd 2026_Catholic Standard

-saysBishopFrancisinEasterMessage

His Lordship Bishop Francis Alleyne OSB has given the following EasterMessage:

We have come to Easter, the central and most important celebration in our Christian calendar. More than this it is the foundational character and identity of the Christian. Through our Lenten Season, culminating in the celebration of Holy Week, we have offered ourselves the readings, the teaching and recollections and sometimes the reenactment of events and encounters of Jesus. We have undertaken our Lenten devotions and disciplines so as to sharpen our attention and focus on the spirit of the season. Woven into these have been Jesus’s conversations and teaching about his Passion and resurrection. A number times Jesus

his followers and more often than not there was objection, resistance, avoidance to what he was teaching.

At the celebration of Passover with his disciples Jesus once again, and for the last time, opens the conversation about his passion, his suffering and resurrection. The account of the Passover would have been something well ingrained in the mind of every Jew. They would have had a good grasp of the story and its significance for the lives of the People of Israel escaping slavery in Egypt and journeying to promise. This was resurrection, dying to slavery and embracing promise, it was Covenant, profound bond and commitment between God and his people. Jesus speaks of New Covenant in the hope that the disciples

Rupununi Catholic Youth Convention 2026 - p2

On first Palm Sunday, Pope Leo says Jesus cries out from the cross against war - p3

A Christian Perspective on Social Issues - p4

Cathedral Catechism children pack hampers for the elderly - p4

Sunday Scripture - p5

The Word and the World - p6

Youth Empowered to Live, Lead and Thrive at Health Talk in Nappi - p7

Palm Sunday in the Rupununi - p8

Children’s Page - p9

Pope’s April prayer intention: ‘For priests in crisis’ - p10

Growing in Grace Week 82 - p10

Faith in Practice Week 9 - p11

Daily Easter activities for families - p12

Palm Sunday in the Diocese - p14

Next Issue April 17th

The next issue of the Catholic Standard will be on FridayApril17th.

Have a blessed and peaceful Easter.❖

Holy Saturday, April 4th

22:00hrs –Easter Vigil Mass atCathedral Easter Sunday, April 5th

17:00hrs –Mass at Cathedral

shared with nearly 300 young people from the different communities of the Rupununi and South Pakaraimas, who, under the theme “Our Culture, Our Faith, Our Journey,” participated enthusiastically in the Catholic Youth Convention 2026, held from March 27th to 30th at Potarinau, South Central Rupununi, Region 9, Essequibo, Guyana.

Saturday, March 28th began with a colourful procession of banners, followed by a cultural presentation, as the young people danced in celebration of their rich heritage while embracing their shared journey.

Year of St. Francis Jubilee Prayer

Saint Francis, our brother, you who eight hundred years ago went to meet Sister Death as a man at peace, intercede for us before the Lord.

You recognized true peace in the Crucifix of San Damiano, teach us to seek in Him the source of all reconciliation that breaks down every wall.

You who, unarmed, crossed the lines of war and misunderstanding, give us the courage to build bridges where the world raises up boundaries.

In this time afflicted by conflict and division, intercede for us so that we may become peacemakers: unarmed and disarming witnesses of the peace that comes from Christ.

Amen - Pope Leo XIV

It was then time for them to proclaim their faith as Holy Mass was celebrated by Parish Priest Fr. Edwin Anthony SJ and Assistant Parish Priest Fr. Cristovao Primo SJ. The celebration of the Holy Mass was truly uplifting and spiritually enriching, filled with reverence and joy as, as hymns were beautifully sung in Wapichan. The mass also reminded us that especially that we are in the Lenten season, that the journey

and minds, to listen attentively to the voice within, and to invite the Holy Spirit to guide and transform their hearts.

He further urged them to recognize that God is speaking to each of them and calling them to return to their respective villages ready to make a difference. Just as Jesus taught His disciples, they too are being sent forth with a mission.

He encouraged them to pay attention to the signs around them and to be mindful of the stirrings within their hearts, trusting that the Holy Spirit will guide them as they embrace their mission.

Moments of joy were not lacking: there were times for recreation, artistic activities, and cultural expressions that strengthened fraternity and the spirit of community among all participants.

This meaningful gathering was organized and led by Fr. Edwin Anthony SJ, with the collaboration of Br. Rigoberto (Rigo) Martínez, SJ, Br. Javier Rodríguez SJ, and Fr. Cristovao Primo SJ, as well as dedicated lay members from the Diocese of Georgetown: Mr. Joshua Van-Sluytman, Ms. Kean Chase, Dr. Theresa Mansingh, Ms. Leah Caminero, Ms. Graziella Abraham, Youth Coordinator Ms. Angela Abraham Parks, and Sisters Soushita and Yudika from Karasabai Village,

We thank God for every young person, for every shared moment, and for the ❖

Adapted from Catholic Media

Please see more photos of the Youth Convention on Page 8: Palm Sunday in

Jesus cries out from the cross against war

VATICAN CITY (OSV News) In his first Palm Sunday homily, Pope Leo XIV proclaimed that Jesus, the King of Peace, embraces all suffering in human history and cries out from the cross against war.

“Brothers and sisters, this is our God: Jesus, King of Peace, who rejects war, whom no one can use to justify war,” the pope said in St. Peter’s Square March 29.

“He does not listen to the prayers of those who wage war, but rejects them, saying: ‘Even though you make many prayers, I will not listen: your hands are full of blood’ (Is 1:15).”

Pope Leo repeated the phrase “King of Peace” seven times throughout his homily, weaving it through different moments of the Passion of Christ, pointing to Jesus as a victim of unjust violence who never took up arms in his own defense.

“Christ, King of Peace, cries out again from his cross: God is love! Have mercy! Lay down your weapons! Remember that you are brothers and sisters,” he said.

Gazing on a ‘crucified humanity’

Pope Leo emphasized that Jesus, in allowing himself to be nailed to the

cross embraced “every cross borne in every time and place throughout human history.”

“As we set our gaze upon him who was crucified for us, we can see a crucified humanity. In his wounds, we see the hurts of so many women and men today,” the pope said.

“In his last cry to the Father, we hear the weeping of those who are crushed, who have no hope, who are sick and who are alone. Above all, we hear the painful groans of all those who are oppressed by violence and are victims of war.”

Pope Leo’s first Holy Week began under sunny skies with a solemn Palm Sunday procession through St. Peter’s Square, where cardinals, bishops and lay people carried large palm branches. The congregation held olive branches, as is customary in Italy.

The Passion narrative from the Gospel of Matthew was solemnly chanted during the Mass; at the moment of Jesus’ death, the square fell silent as tens of thousands of people, including the pope, knelt down in prayer.

Palm Sunday appeal for Holy Land’s Christians

At the end of the Mass, Pope Leo led the crowd in the Angelus prayer in Latin and made an impassioned appeal for Christians in the Holy Land, where the Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem has had to cancel or postpone key Holy Week liturgies, including Palm Sunday due to wartime restrictions.

Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa, the Latin patriarch of Jerusalem, and Father Francesco Ielpo, the custos of the Holy Land, were prevented from entering the Church of the Holy Sepulcher by Israeli police on Palm Sunday, the Latin patriarchate said March 29.

“At the beginning of Holy Week, our prayers are more than ever with the Christians of the Middle East, who are suffering the consequences of a brutal conflict and, in many cases, are unable to observe fully the liturgies of these holy days,” Pope Leo said at the Angelus.

“Just as the Church contemplates the mystery of the Lord’s Passion, we cannot forget those who today are truly sharing in his suffering,” he said, adding “their ordeal challenges all our consciences.”

The pope also prayed for migrants who have died at sea, particularly those who perished recently off the coast of Crete.

Pope invokes Gulf War opponent on path to sainthood

In his homily, Pope Leo quoted Servant of God Antonio “Tonino” Bello, an Italian bishop and vocal critic of the Gulf War who died of cancer in 1993 and is on the path to sainthood.

“‘Holy Mary, woman of the third day, grant us the certainty that, in spite of all, death will no longer hold sway over us; that the injustices of peoples are numbered; that the flashes of war are fading into the twilight; that the sufferings of the poor are breathing their last. And grant, finally, that the tears of all the victims of violence and pain will soon be dried up like frost beneath the spring sun,'” the pope said, quoting Bello, whom he referred to by his nickname “Tonino.”

Pope Leo has a busy Holy Week schedule ahead, which includes a return to the tradition of Holy Thursday Mass in St. Peter’s Basilica and includes Stations of the Cross in the Colosseum. ❖

A Christian Perspective on Social Issues

By GHK Lall

Blessed Easter

They thought that it was over. They knew not what they were talking about. Jesus himself said that ‘it is finished.’ But he alone knew what he meant, and that it applied only to his heavenly salvific mission on earth.

anger. I acknowledge that Peter did draw his sword in a fit of impetuousness, slashed at an ear, and drew blood. It’s not what Jesus left heaven and came to earth for; not the new way he had carved out. A New Jerusalem, a New Covenant, and a New Order.

It’s Easter. The Resurrection that raised so much with it. So many hopes. iSo much faith vested. So much joy. Those are in the air and in the hearts of many. Are you part of that, do you feel it? If the answer is no, then Lent may not have meant what it should have, didn’t register as deeply as it must. A shame, really; I see a tragedy that shouldn’t be. If Lent failed to inspire beyond the tough routines, the heavy mechanics, then the profoundness, the vastness, of Easter and the Risen Christ may be lost somewhere in the mists.

Jesus gave so much for we, for me. What am I doing? What am I giving him in return, as a small token of thanksgiving? Where are we going? Those are questions all should ask. Not only of one another. But of ourselves. If there is insistence about going with Jesus, then Easter grabs hold of swiftly, gives a shake, and then gently sets down. God! All of this was given to me, done for me. So, I can be salvaged, put together a little piece at a time. May it hold fast. Sins forgiven. Temptations that used to make mincemeat of me, now stubbornly resisted. It had better be, because get

devil came calling with his bag of goodies. Thou shalt not tempt the Lord thy God. It happened, anyway, and not once but thrice, and that doesn’t mean that there weren more that came to test what Jesus was all about, how enduring he was. This he stood for, guaranteed. Jesus said: I am the light. He also said to all of us that we have it inside to be a light to the world. A tiny candle first; then a roaring furnace that glints through the darkest times, the darkest environments. The forces of darkness will always hate any stream of light, regardless of how small or thin its glistening rays. So, there warning to be taken seriously by every Catholic. If the Son of God, then where does that leave me? Take inspiration from Jesus.

The triumph of Easter is a testimony to the wisdom, resilience, and humility of Jesus. He was never so haughty, as to believe that he was unconquerable without constant fellowship with his heavenly Father. He prayed, so must we. He turned to the Father, and reached for him, and so should me and you. In the name of Jesus, through the Risen Christ, Lord hear us. Bless our prayers. Increase our beliefs. Intensify our faith. Help us to draw close to Jesus, be as one with him. The Spirit of Advent, Lent, Holy Week, and Easter surrounding us, taking over us, and carrying us in the pathways of the Risen Christ. Easter, the promise come to pass. Easter: the joy of submission and

Gracious and loving God, we thank your for the gift of our priests. Through them, we experience your presence in the sacraments. Help our priests to be strong in their vocation.

Cathedral children pack hampers for the elderly

Set their souls on fire with love for your people.

Grant them the wisdom, understanding, and strength they need to follow in the footsteps of Jesus. Inspire them with the vision of your Kingdom.

Give them the words they need to spread the Gospel.

Allow them to experience joy in their ministry.

Help them to become instruments of your divine grace.

We ask this through Jesus Christ, who lives and reigns as our Eternal Priest. Amen

on a tree, yet three days afterwards God raised him to life and allowed him to be seen, not by the whole people but only by certain witnesses God had chosen beforehand. Now we are those witnesses –we have eaten and drunk with him after his resurrection from the dead – and he has ordered us to proclaim this to his people and to tell them that God has appointed him to judge everyone, alive or dead. It is to him that all the prophets bear this witness: that all who believe in Jesus will have their sins forgiven through his name.’

RESPONSORIAL PSALM: Psalm 117

Response: Alleluia,alleluia,alleluia!

1. Give thanks to the Lord for he is good, for his love has no end.

Let the sons of Israel say:

‘His love has no end.’ Response

2. The Lord’s right hand has triumphed; his right hand raised me up.

I shall not die, I shall live and recount his deeds. Response

3. The stone which the builders rejected has become the corner stone.

This is the work of the Lord, a marvel in our eyes. Response

SECOND READING

Colossians 3:1-4

Since you have been brought back to true life with Christ, you must look for the things that are in heaven, where Christ is, sitting at God’s right hand. Let your thoughts be on heavenly things, not on the things that are on the earth, because you have died, and now the life you have is hidden with Christ in God. But when Christ is revealed – and he is your life – you too will be revealed in all your glory with him.

SEQUENCE

Christians, to the Paschal Victim offer sacrifice and praise.

The sheep are ransomed by the Lamb;

That Christ is truly risen from the dead we know. Victorious king, thy mercy show!

Gospel Acclamation 1 Cor 5:7-8

Alleluia, alleluia!

Christ, our passover, has been sacrificed; let us celebrate the feast then, in the Lord. Alleluia!

THE GOSPEL

John 20:1-9

It was very early on the first day of the week and still dark, when Mary of Magdala came to the tomb. She saw that the stone had been moved away from the tomb and came running to Simon Peter and the other disciple, the one Jesus loved. ‘They have taken the Lord out of the tomb’ she said ‘and we don’t know where they have put him.’

So Peter set out with the other disciple to go to the tomb. They ran together, but the other disciple, running faster than Peter, reached the tomb first; he bent down and saw the linen cloths lying on the ground, but did not go in. Simon Peter who was following now came up, went right into the tomb, saw the linen cloths on the ground, and also the cloth that had been over his head; this was not with the linen cloths but rolled up in a place by itself. Then the other disciple who had reached the tomb first also went in; he saw and he believed. Till this moment they had failed to understand the teaching of scripture, that he must rise from the dead.❖

Gospel Reflection

We are flooded everyday with bad news. The media are filled with stories about such suffering, wars, famine, injustice, starvation and death that we could easily believe that there is no such thing as good news ever, anywhere in the world. But today we celebrate good news. It is the good news of the resurrection. And this news is not just that the shame of the cross has been transformed into the new life of the resurrection, but that belief in the Risen Christ brings forgiveness of sin and the saving grace of Jesus to all people everywhere. But the early followers of Jesus did not recognize this good news right away. It is only with reflection that they came to faith. This is the experience of us all. We all experience confusion in situations we are not familiar with. The challenge for us as Easter people is to have our minds focused on the resurrected Christ, to have hope in times of hopelessness and faith in times of doubt.

TheWordandtheWorld

By Mike James

AD 33 Holy Thursday 8p.m Upper Room: “Because I tell you these words of scripture are destined to be fulfilled in me: He was counted as one of the rebellious. Yes, what it says about me is even now reaching its fulfilment.' They said, 'Lord, here are two swords.' He said to them, 'That is enough!' Lk 22:23

AD 33 Holy Thursday 11:30 pm. Getsemani: “Then they came forward, seized Jesus and arrested him. Suddenly, one of the followers of Jesus, Peter, grasped his sword and drew it; he struck the high priest's servant and cut off his ear. Jesus then said, 'Put your sword back, for all who draw the sword will die by the sword. Or do you think that I cannot appeal to my Father, who would promptly send more than twelve legions of angels to my defence?” Mt 26:52…

AD 2026. 03.10. The Pentagon Pete Hegseth, Secretary of War, Donald Trump Administration

“We're winning decisively with brutal efficiency, total air dominance and an unbreakable will to accomplish the president's objectives on our timeline. We stay locked on the target, because here at the Department of War that's our job Our troops and their families and the enormous sacrifice that they make is certainly heavy on my mind, so I'll close with Scripture, drawing strength from Psalm 144.

AD 2026. 03.15 Jerusalem Cardinal Pizzaballa: “Abusing God’s name for war is the gravest sin”

“As believers (…) we need to say that no, there are no new crusades. If God is present in this war, He is among those who are dying, who are suffering, who are in pain, who are oppressed in various ways, throughout the Middle East. The truth must continue to be told about the ongoing war in the Middle East and that “God is with those who die in war, not with those who abuse his name.”

“THE ABUSE AND MANIPULATION OF GOD’S NAME TO JUSTIFY THIS AND ANY OTHER WAR IS THE GRAVEST SIN WE CAN COMMIT AT THIS TIME”

“War is first and foremost political and has very material interests, like most wars. We must do everything we can to leave no room for this pseudoreligious language, which speaks not of God, but of ourselves”.

“What is built on violence perishes; it has no future, but it also creates a void around itself: fear, resentment, hatred all that which, in Christian language, belongs to the world of death.”

Palestine; “2 million displaced people, deprived of everything; 80% of the Strip is still destroyed, and no

reconstruction has begun; 36 hospitals are partially operational, but medicines are lacking, even basic antibiotics. People are literally living in the sewers; the images cannot convey the smells.”

AD 2026.03,29, Palm Sunday Sermon, Vatican City, Pope Leo XIV

“This is our God: Jesus, King of Peace, who rejects war, whom no one can use to justify war. He does not listen to the prayers of those who wage war, but rejects them.”

“No one should fear that threats of death and destruction will come from the sky,”

Let us “raise our prayers to the Prince of Peace so that he may support people wounded by war and open concrete paths of reconciliation and peace.”

Dateline; Yesterday, Today and Forever. Jesus Jn 14.32…

“Listen; the time will come indeed it has come already when you are going to be scattered, each going his own way and leaving me alone. And yet I am not alone, because the Father is with me. I have told you all this so that you may find peace in me.

IN THE WORLD YOU WILL HAVE HARDSHIP BUT BE COURAGEOUS: I HAVE CONQUERED THE WORLD.”❖

The tomb is empty. They fully expected to find the body there and so there is surprise that the one whom they had loved and seen die, is now risen. We too visit tombs every day – the tombs of hatred, injustice, violence, hopelessness, selfishness and destruction. If we live with the faith of the resurrection, we will surely find many of those tombs emptied by the power of God. And from time to time we see empty tombs – the alcoholic who stops drinking, the husband who begins to live up to his responsibility, peace instead of war in some part of the world. After that first Easter, we are certain that God can empty any tomb. ❖

[From: Journeying with the Word of God, The Religious Education Department, DioceseofGeorgetown, Guyana ]

Blessed be the Lord, my rock, who trains my hands for war and my fingers for battle. He is my loving God and my fortress, my stronghold and my deliverer, my shield in whom I take refuge. May the Lord grant unyielding strength and refuge to our warriors, unbreakable protection to them and our homeland, and total victory over those who seek to harm them. God bless our troops and this mission. Give them “wisdom in every decision, endurance for the trial ahead, unbreakable unity, and overwhelming violence of action against those who deserve no mercy,” …. “we ask these things with bold confidence in the mighty and powerful name of Jesus Christ. Amen”

For 121 years, the Catholic Standard has been sharing the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

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By Joshua Van-Sluytman

On Wednesday April 1, 2026, the Diocesan Roman Catholic Youth Office hosted a Youth Health Talk under the theme “Empowering Youth to Live, Lead & Thrive” at the Nappi Village Benab in Region 9. The event brought together over 60 young men and women from Moco Moco, East and West Hiawa, Nappi, and St. Ignatius for a day of learning, reflection, and empowerment.

The session was attended by Mrs. Angela Abraham-Parks, Diocesan Youth Coordinator; along with members of the Diocesan Youth Ministry team: Fr.Joel Thompson, SJ, Ms. Graziella Abraham, and Mr. Joshua Van-Sluytman. Bro. José Javier Rodríguez, SJ was in attendanceaswell.

The day began with an opening prayer by Fr. Joel Thompson, SJ, followed by a warm welcome and opening remarks. In his message, Fr. Thompson reflected on the meaning of the word holy, noting that it can also mean whole. He reminded the young people that human beings are made up of mind, body, and soul, and that caring for each of these aspects is important for living a balanced and healthy life. He explained that the day’s presentations would address these three areas mental health, substance abuse, and the Sacrament of Confession encouraging the youth to grow in both wellnessand faith.

Dr. Theresa Mansingh - Obstetrician and Gynecologist - delivered a presentation on mental health, reminding the young people about the importance of caring for their emotional well-being and seeking support when needed. She also spoke about reproductive health and highlighted both the positive and negative impacts of social media on young peopletoday.

The discussion continued with Dr. Paige Carter, Deputy Regional Health Officer, who addressed the topic of drug and alcohol abuse. Her presentation served as a strong reminder to the youth about the dangers and long-term consequences of substance abuse, encouraging them to makewiseand healthy choices. Attention then turned to the spiritualdimension of life. Sr.Beloved Daughter of the Eternal Father, SSVM, shared a video presentation on the importance of the Sacrament of Confession, followed by a question-and-answer session facilitated by Fr. Joel Thompson, SJ. As part of a reflective activity, the young people were invited to write a short prayer beginning with the words “Dear Lord, I am sorry…” on a piece of paper. The notes were gathered, and together the group prayed before the papers were symbolically burned as a sign of repentanceand letting go.

A brief message was also shared by Mr. Jeriton Henrico, a prison officer who hails from Nappi Village. He encouraged the young people to make positive choices in life, avoid activities that could lead them down the wrong path, and remain focused on their

Journeying with the Word of God

MAKING THE WORD OF GOD YOUR OWN

Step 1: Lookattoday’sReadingsprayerfully.

goals so they can build a better future for themselves and their communities.

The session also included a presentation on entrepreneurship by Ms. Leah Casimero, who shared practical ideas on how young people can begin thinking creatively about business opportunities and becoming more financially independent. She also offered a brief explanation of Synodality, illustrating how working together, listening, and sharing ideas can help communities growstronger.

In her closing remarks, Mrs. Angela Abraham-Parks encouraged the young people to continue reflecting on what they had learned throughout the day. She reminded them that support is always available and urged them to share the knowledge they gained with their peers and communities.

The Youth Health Talk provided a meaningful opportunity for the young people of the Rupununi to engage in open conversations about mental health, physical well-being, faith, and personal development, equipping them with valuable tools to livehealthier, morepurposeful lives.❖

1st Reading: : Peter tells of the life, death and resurrection of Jesus and of the gifts of forgiveness it brings to those who believe.

2nd Reading: Paul reminds us that because of our baptism we share in the life of Christ and so must live accordingly.

Gospel: John tells of the events of that first Easter morning and emphasizes the importance of faith in the face of this mystery.

Step 2: ApplyingthevaluesoftheReadings toyourdailylife.

1. What does it mean to believe in the risen Christ? How is this belief present in the lives of believers today?

2.Easter has always been the time when the Church welcomes new members through baptism. It is also a time for the baptized to renew their baptismal promises. What are those promises we renew (or make)?

3.At this time we publicly reject the world of darkness and sin and welcome the light of the resurrected Christ in our lives. What does the world of darkness offer us?

4.What do you think is the “joy” and “hope” that Easter offers us?

Step 3: Accepting the message of God’s Wordinyourlifeoffaith

The message of Easter is clear: “Do not look for the living among the dead. He has risen.” As a result of this message, the Christian knows that there is no such thing as death in the sense of a final end. Therefore, our loved ones who have died are, in a sense, alive and sharing in the life of the risen Christ.

Step 4: Somethingtothink&prayabout

1.The season of Easter lasts for fifty days, until Pentecost. It would be useful for your faith development to consider how you intend to keep the joy of Easter alive in your life during this season.

2.Reflect on your whole Lenten experience. How and why was Lent important as preparation for the experience of Easter?

3.Have you ever felt the emptiness, the despair, the grief and the fear that come with the death of someone close? Was there anything positive coming out of that experience? Do you feel that the season of Easter can offer you any sense of hope and relief when you are faced with death? ❖

[From: Journeying with the Word of God, The Religious EducationDepartment,DioceseofGeorgetown,Guyana ]

Palm Sunday in the Rupununi AJourneyofFaithandJoy

journey, one that will stay with me. From the smallest to the eldest, including our two Jesuit Scholastics and the Ursuline Sisters of Tildonk, they journeyed from the Potarinau Benab by bus for about 20 minutes to a ranch.

This was followed by the blessing of palms by Parish Priest Fr. Edwin Anthony, SJ. From there, the “journey began” as they all walked up a mountain for about one hour, singing and waving their palms. A living testimony of their faith. As we walked, I was reminded of a phrase from our Stations of the Cross that we prayed faithfully for the past six Fridays: “In our journey towards you, we often fall, we become bitter with ourselves, we find it hard to pray, we lose confidence in ourselves and our ability to do good.” A reminder that every time we fall, He is there to guide us. At the top of the mountain, it was time to celebrate Holy Mass. In his homily, Fr. Edwin urged the faithful to look around the mountaintop and admire the creation of God. He encouraged us to be joyous, spread the joy, be peaceful to others, and always remember to forgive those who have wronged us. The voices, the smell of nature, and the many young faces made it a day to remember, moments that only the eyes could have expressed.

And as the day came to a close, I carried with me a quiet sense of gratitude for the journey, for the people, and for a faith so alive. A reminder that no matter where we are, God meets us along the way. May your Holy Week observances be one of Repentance, Grace and Mercy. May we all rejoice this Easter, rejoicing that the Lord is gracious and merciful.❖

Dear Boys and Girls,

Easter is a very special and wonderful time in the Church and for all of us. Do you know why? On Easter Sunday we celebrate Jesus rising form the dead (His Resurrection). Jesus overcame death. He is no longer dead. Jesus is alive. Alleluia!

Easter is the high point of Holy Week - the holiest week of the year for Christians.

Easter is a time of great joy as Jesus brings new life to the world. To celebrate this occasion, the church is beautifully decorated in white and gold with lots of flowers (lilies), a signof the risen Lord.

There is also a large decorated candle. It stands for Jesus, and is called the Easter Candle or the Paschal Candle. Jesus is the Light of the World.

Here in Guyana we fly kites at Easter because the kites are a symbol of the risen Lord.

Have a happy, holy and safe Easter, and may God bless all of you. Alleluia! ❖

Can you help Mary find the way to the empty tomb?

"They have taken the Lord out of the tomb, and we don't know where they have put him!"

John 20:2 (NIV)

Pope’s April prayer intention: ‘For priests in crisis’

urged Catholics across the globe to join him in April in praying for priests in crisis.

He released the monthly “Pray with the Pope” video on Tuesday, which is prepared by the Pope’s Worldwide Prayer Network.

In his prayer, the Pope entrusted all priests into the Father’s hands, especially those going through moments of crisis, “when loneliness

weighs heavily, when doubt clouds their hearts, and when exhaustion seems stronger than hope.”

God, he said, knows their struggles and wounds as they seek to accept His unconditional love as “humble and cherished disciples” and not as “mere functionaries or lonely heroes.”

“Good Father, teach us as a community to care for our priests: to listen without judging, to give thanks without demanding perfection, to share with

them the baptismal mission of proclaiming the Kingdom in word and deed, and to accompany them with closeness and sincere prayer,” prayed the Pope.

He invited Catholics to support the men who “so often support us.”

Pope Leo prayed that the Holy Spirit may “rekindle in our priests the joy of the Gospel.

”

“Grant them healthy friendships, networks of fraternal support, a sense of humor when things don’t go as expected, and the grace to always rediscover the beauty of their vocation,” he said.

“May they never lose trust in You,” he concluded, “nor the joy of serving your Church with a humble and generous heart.”

Sustaining the men who sustainourfaith

In a press release accompanying the video, Fr. Cristóbal Fones, international director of the Pope’s Worldwide Prayer Network, said the intention to pray for priests is particularly close to Pope Leo XIV’s heart.

“It is essential to remember how important human accompaniment, sincere friendship and, above all, prayer support are,” said Fr. Fones.

“Priests need to know that they are not alone.”

Like all people, priests too are fragile men who need to receive mercy, closeness, and understanding, noted the press release.

In addition to community life, priests should feel supported by their communities and the prayer of their flocks, and the Pope’s prayer intention for April offers Catholics an opportunity to offer our spiritual support.❖

By Renika Anand

Be Kind

Caroline Flack, a British Television presenter once said “In a world where you can be anything, be kind.”

A beautiful flame can light up an entire room. It can guide others towards the right place, and away from danger. However, a flame always depletes the source that gives it its brightness. Eventually, a candle will melt, a matchstick will wither into ashes and a lantern will fade into darkness. Despite this, the light and warmth that they would have provided leaves a personal impact on those who benefit from them.

As we grow, we will encounter situations where we have the opportunity to provide light and warmth to guide others. Sometimes, in these situations, helping others also means that we will have to make sacrifices. It is difficult to make choices to benefit others, especially when it means that we will lose something ourselves. Nevertheless, the ability to be a flame that brings light to a dark place is a gift that eradicates the burden of sacrifice.

And if you spend yourselves in behalf of the hungry and satisfy the needs of the oppressed, then your light will rise in the darkness, and your night will become like the noonday.

- Isaiah 58:10 .❖

FaithinPractice:LivingandKnowingourFaith From Maintenance to Mission: Sharing the Joy of the Gospel (Evangelization)

Fr Joel Thompson SJ

Key Beliefs:

• The Church is missionary by her very nature (CCC 850).

• Evangelization is the identity of every Christian and not just clergy

• We are sent by Christ himself to continue his mission

Related Scripture:

• Matthew 28:19–20

• Mark 16:15

• Luke 4:18

• John 20:21

What We Believe

Easter is a privileged time to rediscover and remember who we are as Church. The Risen Lord sends his disciples into the world, and in doing so reveals that the Church is not merely an institution with activities, it is mission.

The Church does not have a mission; she is mission and by her nature missionary (CCC 850). This is the great commission: "Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizingthem in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you” (Matthew 28:19-20). The Church exists to evangelize. This means that evangelization is not an optional activity for a few; it is the deepest identity of every baptized Christian.

The opposite of mission is maintenance. Maintenance focuses inward: preserving structures, celebrating sacraments routinely, and keeping things going. These are important, but they are not enough. A Church that only maintains risks becoming closed in on itself and slowly diminishing. Pope Franics warned against parishes “ becoming useless structures out of touch with people or a self-absorbed group made up of a chosen few.” (Evangelii Gaudium/The Joy of the Gospel #27).

Mission, on the other hand, is outward-looking. It is the Church that “goes forth,” and encounters people in their real lives, walks with families in their struggles, and reaches out to those on the margins. Does your parish only gather on Sundays for worship? Are your notices are mainly about fund raising and building maintenance? If so, this points towards maintenance. Does your parish routinely visit the sick, elderly, prisoners etc.? Engage social issues? Does your parish visit families, engage young people, and regularly invite those of little faith or none to gatherings? If so, this points towards mission.

Our missionary identity flows directly from Jesus himself. He is the first and greatest evangelizer. His mission was to proclaim the Kingdom of God and to bring salvation, which is liberation from sin, suffering, and all that diminishes human dignity (see Luke 4:18).

Before ascending, he entrusted this same mission to us “Go into all the world and proclaim the Gospel” (Mark 16:15). Even the final words of the Mass, “Goforth”, remind us that we are sent. The word Missa/Mass itself points to this sending. Every Eucharist ends in mission.

Why It Matters

The heart of evangelization is love. When we truly experience the joy of the Gospel, we naturally desire to share it. As Evangelii Gaudium beautifully expresses: “Jesus Christ loves you; he gave his life to save you; and now he is living at your side every day…” (EG #164)

This is the “first proclamation” and the core message that must be heard again and again, not only by those who do not know Christ, but by all of us. Catechists and those who teach must always bear in mind that every lesson should flow from this fundamental proclamation.

Evangelization is a process with many dimensions:

Witness → Proclamation → Sacramental Life → Mission

We do not evangelize simply because we are commanded to do so. We evangelize because we have encountered something and someone so beautiful that we cannot keep it to ourselves! Anyone who has discovered something beautiful immediately wants to share it with another.

It often begins quietly, with the silent witness of a Christian life lived in faith. It continues through explicit proclamation. It deepens through participation in the sacraments. And it reaches fulfillment when the evangelized become evangelizers. We are all called to share our faith.

Evangelization builds relationships within communities, fosters belonging, and invites people to encounter Christ and return to the Church. It strengthens families and renews hope in places marked by struggle.

Importantly, this mission belongs to everyone. Evangelization is not only for priests and religious. Every baptized person has a role. The laity are called to be witnesses of Christ in all circumstances” (CCC 905).

How We Live It

How do we move from maintenance

to mission in our daily lives?

First, we begin where we are. Evangelization unfolds in what we might call five “circles of influence”:

Self → Family → Parish → Community → World

We cannot give what we do not have. Mission begins with a personal relationship with Christ. From there, it flows into our families, our parish life, and beyond.

Second, we embrace the essential qualities of evangelization: joy, beauty, and justice (with mercy and tenderness).

• Joy attracts. A joyful Christian is the most convincing witness to the Gospel.

• Beauty reveals God. Whether in liturgy, music, or acts of love, beauty opens hearts.

Justice and mercy make the Gospel concrete. To serve the poor, accompany the wounded, and stand for what is right is to proclaim Christ with our lives.

Third, we remember that evangelization is about accompaniment. We are called to walk with others in their joys and sorrows. A missionary Church is one that listens, welcomes, and walks alongside people even in their brokenness. May this Easter be a time of sharing our faith and our joy with those we encounter. ❖

Living Mission:

• Attend to your relationship with Christ

• Evangelize within your daily “circles of influence”

• Witness through joy, beauty, justice, and mercy

Reflection Questions:

• Am I living a faith of maintenance or mission?

• Where is God sending me right now:family,parish,community?

• Do others encounter joy and mercy through me?

• How can I share the simple message: “Jesus Christ loves you”?

Bishop’s Easter Message

would see the parallel between what happened to the People of Israel stepping away from Slavery and embracing new life. The hope is that we too would hold this up to ourselves as a template, paying attention to the “slaveries” of our time and committing ourselves to the promise and witness of our faith. For the people of the Exodus it took forty years, for the disciples it took fifty days (Easter to Pentecost) to fully welcome and witness to the teachings of Jesus who mandated them to do what he taught and what he did; “Do this as a memorial of me” (Lk 22:19) words that we offer ourselves, every time we celebrate Eucharist, New Covenant.

We, living at this particular time in the History of our Church, are very fortunate. Pope Francis opened a conversation about “a new way of being Church” and invited the Universal Church into Synodality, journeying together. The Holy Father was very concerned about a number of phenomena of our modern times that threatened to undermine the full dignity of the Human Person. The Synods on Synodality brought the whole Church into reflection on these threatening elements (slaveries) and the reformulation of ways of being

Church today (Resurrection). This would mean reviving, renewing and strengthening the core elements of our faith and articulating the ways in which they speak to the realities in the world today.

My Easter wish to all as we are all called to move to the implementation stage of the Synod process is that the spirit of Easter and Pentecost and Passover would be very present in every heart as we accompany and encourage one another towards new and authentic ways of being Church. In closing I would like to again quote a few lines from the original Synod workingdocument.

“Synodality is intended to inspire people to dream about the Church we are called to be, to make people’s hopes flourish, to stimulate trust, to bind up wounds, to weave a new and deeper relationships, to learn from one another, to build bridges, to enlighten minds, warm hearts and restore strength to our hands for our common mission. Thus the objective of this Synodal Process is not only a series of exercises that start and stop, but rather a journey of growing authentically towards the communion and mission that God calls the Church to live out in the third millennium.” ❖

Palm Sunday in the Diocese