Imagine stepping outside on a brisk morning in a beautiful place like a mountaintop with a dew-covered valley below, or a beach with the sun just about to break over the horizon…and taking in a long, deep breath of sweet, fresh air. And feeling more alive.

We can only imagine what it must have felt like for Jesus to take that first breath of early morning Jerusalem air after he stepped out of the tomb – once dead, but now alive again.

That’s what he offers to you and to me today, and in the 50 days of the Easter season ahead. A breath of fresh, clean air in our lives where maybe things have been closed up and stifling. Feeling more alive, where we’ve felt weighed down and shut in.

Whether you’re new with us today, or you’re coming back after some time, or you come to St. Raphael frequently: a warm welcome to you! I invite you come join us again, get more connected with others on the journey, and let Jesus continue to give you what we celebrate today: new life!

Happy Easter!
Fr. Phil Hurley, S.J.
Pastor