Joseph Osho

  Easter Monday  Acts 2:14,​22-33 Psalm 15(16):1-2,5,7-11 Matthew 28:8-15 DO NOT BE AFRAID TO PROCLAIM THE EASTER MESSAGE  During this Easter season , the first reading is taken from the Acts of the Apostles. The Church makes this selection for a significant reason. The Acts of the Apostles linked with the post resurrection account of Christ’s ascension, the replacement of Judas Iscariot with Matthias and Pentecost-a pivotal day when the Church, promised and established by Jesus, is inaugurated. The narrative of Acts chronicles the history of the Church and the Apostles' mission to disseminate the Gospel throughout the world, fulfilling the Great Commission given by the Risen Jesus (Matthew 28:10-20). During the Easter Season, we also encounter the early Gospel message preached by Peter and Paul. For example, in Acts 2:32-33, Peter proclaims: "God raised this Jesus; of this we are all witnesses. Exalted at the right hand of God, he poured forth the promise of the Holy Spi...

  It is not good for the man to be alone”  (Genesis 2:18). Beyond human companionship, we are invited into a deeper communion—with God Himself. Through Christ, we are offered not only friendship but salvation. The message of Easter is grounded in sacrificial love.  “For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son”  (John 3:16). Jesus’ suffering and death on the cross reveal a Savior who enters into our pain, while His resurrection proclaims victory over sin and death. As Paul writes,  “But God demonstrates His own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us”  (Romans 5:8). Easter assures us that we are never abandoned. In our struggles—whether personal, relational, or societal—we are not left to our own strength. Christ walks with us, even carrying our burdens alongside us:  “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest”  (Matthew 11:28). This is the heart of the Easter message: not...

  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...