March 29, 2025
Dear Friend,
The world as they knew it had changed. Nothing was a certainty anymore. Fear and anxiety were the prevailing emotions shared by many. But for the first disciples of Jesus, there was still hope. They had remembered the words of their teacher and friend who had told them that he would rise in three days’ time. Although they were overcome with grief at the sight of the crucifixion, Jesus’ promise resided in the recesses of their hearts. At the tomb on Sunday morning, in the locked upper room, and on the shores of the Sea of Galilee, this promise was more than a promise fulfilled. It was an encounter with the resurrected Christ, whose resurrection changed the trajectory of humanity, restored friendship with God, and brought joy and peace to believers’ hearts once again.
We too presently live with much uncertainty in a rapidly changing world that may elicit feelings of fear and anxiety. In our own hearts resides the source of our hope; Jesus’ promise to be with us until the end of time. This is the resurrected Christ, who has vanquished death forever, that speaks to us. If death could not hold Jesus down, then no other power, earthly or divine, can ever impede the work of God and of his Church.
Every Sunday we gather together at Mass to proclaim, “Jesus is Lord!” After reflecting on the Word of God, and being strengthened by the reception of the Eucharist, we are renewed in our faith, and we joyfully go out into the world, to make it a better place through the witness of our words and actions that are centered on love, kindness, and respect. This has been the central mission of Saint Andrew Parish since our founding 130 years ago. Both our Church and School are guided by this mission in our worship, in the education of our children, in our sense of community, and in our outreach to the poor and suffering.
I invite you to join me and many others in this life-saving mission. Information on our Holy Week services have been included in this mailing. I look forward to seeing you and celebrating the central mysteries of our faith with you. I also invite you to prayerfully consider donating to our Annual Easter Appeal. This appeal goes a long way in supporting the various ministries at Saint Andrew. Every gift, both large and small, will help to make our community grow.
Thank you for your generosity and your faithfulness. May the same joy and peace that filled the hearts of the first disciples fill your heart, and the hearts of your loved ones this Easter season. Happy Easter!
Yours in Christ,
Fr. Sergio Romo
Give online to the Easter Appeal at https://www.givecentral.org/customizable-online-giving/299/event/6049
