Joseph Osho

  Easter Sunday  Acts 10:34,​37-43 · Psalm 117(118):1-2,16-17,22-23 Colossians 3:1-4  John 20:1-9 Throughout the world, numerous individuals awoke this morning in a new state of grace—specifically, baptismal grace. These are the fortunate individuals who were baptized during the recent Easter vigil. While some may have been infants, the majority were likely adults. For those baptized as infants, the details of that occasion are generally beyond recollection. However, for adults, the act of baptism is undoubtedly memorable, signifying the forgiveness of all previous sins and offering a complete new beginning. It also signifies that God the Blessed Trinity has taken permanent residence within their immortal souls.  Such an event represents a profound transformation and a fresh start. Moreover, it provides reassurance to the newly baptized that, having taken residence within them, God will never abandon them. The Church will provide ongoing support; even if circums...

  EASTER VIGIL THE READINGS  1. Genesis 1:1-2:2 and Psalm 104 2. Genesis 22:1-18 and Psalm 16 3. Exodus 14:15-15: and Psalm: Exod.15 4. Isaiah 54:5-14 and Psalm 30 5. Isaiah 55:1-11 and Psalm: Isaiah:12 6. Baruch 3:9-15.32-4:4 and Psalm 19 7. Ezekiel 36:16-17a.18-28 and Psalm:42 8. Romans 6:3-11 and Psalm:118 9. Matthew 28:1-10 THE GREAT VIGIL  The Easter Vigil is one of the oldest and most important ceremonies in the Church, celebrating Christ’s resurrection and His victory over death, which brings hope and removes fear of the afterlife. After preparing through Lent, we rejoice in this moment of salvation. The readings trace the story of salvation—from creation, through human sin, to Christ’s redemptive death and resurrection. Through His resurrection, creation is fulfilled, life is renewed, and light overcomes darkness. God revealed Himself fully through Jesus Christ, and accepting Him brings eternal life. Through baptism, we share in Christ’s death and resurrection, re...

  HOLY SATURDAY  John 18:1-19,42.  THE GREAT SILENCE  Today is a time for deep, spiritual pondering – helping us celebrate the true meaning of our lives as followers of Jesus Crucified.  The power and beauty of the Easter Vigil celebration await us later today; the words and water, fire and light, song and incense and flowers will help each of our senses to transition to the glorious Love Message which is our Risen Lord.  Until then……we watch, and wait, and ponder. Hope in the Lord.

  Good Friday  Isaiah 52:13-53:12 Psalm 30(31):2,6,12-13,15-17,25 Hebrews 4:14-16,​5:7-9 John 18:1-19:42 Through the cross, the world is redeemed  At the commencement of today7s liturgy, the celebrant lay prostrate in silence before the altar. There was no introductory rite as observed in Mass, nor an entrance song. The altar was stripped, and the sanctuary was left bare. This silent act of prostration reflects the profound grief and sorrow of the Church as it contemplates the sacrifice of Christ, expressing these feelings through this ancient gesture. In silent reverence, the Church, burdened with grief, stands at the foot of the Cross. For three hours, the sun was obscured, and the natural light of the heavens was extinguished as the Light of the World was crucified and died upon the tree. Initially, all words appeared insufficient and meaningless, as God incarnate endured torture, mockery, and death. Christ’s death signals the apparent triumph of evil.  However, t...

Holy Thursday – Mass of the Oils. This celebration traditionally takes place in the cathedral of each diocese on the morning of Holy Thursday and is presided over by the diocesan bishop. During this mass, the sacred oils—specifically, the Oil of the Sick and the Oil of Catechumens—are blessed, and the Oil of Chrism is consecrated. These oils are subsequently distributed to churches throughout the diocese for use in the upcoming year. Additionally, the bishop is accompanied by clergy from across the diocese, symbolizing the unity of the diocesan and universal Church. The clergy renew their commitment to priestly service before the bishop and the congregation. The first reading (Isaiah 61:1-3, 6a, 8b-9) emphasizes the presbyteral order—those ordained for sacred ministry who continue the work of God following the example of Christ. The second reading (Revelation 1:5-8) reflects on Christ's redemptive act of cleansing sins with His blood and predicts that those who pierced Him will wit...

  Holy Thursday - Evening Mass  Exodus 12:1-8,​11-14 Psalm 115(116):12-13,15-18 1 Corinthians 11:23-26 John 13:1-15 THE LOVE OF JESUS IS PERFECT  What virtue is essential for becoming a true follower of Jesus? It is humility. When Jesus washed the disciples’ feet, he conveyed a powerful message that if He, as their Lord and Master, demonstrated this ultimate act of love and humility, they too must serve one another accordingly. This act was intended to ensure that the faith established through Peter would endure. Jesus understood that without humility, there would be no opportunity for faith to develop and flourish as it has today. However, practicing humility is not always easy. Nevertheless, it is through humility that individuals can grow in knowledge and develop a closer relationship with Jesus. It is also through humility that we can influence others to follow Christ. Humility is the pathway to becoming Christ-like and, ultimately, to sainthood. Do we genuinely desir...