Word from the Pastor

Seventh Sunday of Easter

Christ, our divine compass and steadfast guide, is always with us.
Acts1:1-11, Ephesians 1:17-23, Matthew 28:16-20

Dear parish family,​

Today marks the Feast of the Ascension, a momentous occasion in the life of the Church. As Christians, we believe that forty days after his resurrection, Jesus ascended into heaven, to sit at the Father’s right hand. This event is powerful and mysterious, and it may also confuse and even provoke doubt in us.​

As today’s readings show us, we are not alone in our doubt. In the Gospel, the eleven disciples encounter Christ risen and worship him but they also doubt. This image of Jesus’ closest companions navigating doubts as they worship the risen Lord powerfully illustrates the human condition, which is imperfect. This scene calls to mind the phrase first echoed in the Gospel of Gospel of Mark and later by saints throughout the life of the Church: “I do believe, help my unbelief!” (Mk 9:24). ​

So the disciples doubt and yet Christ remained with them, received them in that doubt, and stewarded them forward. As Matthew the Evangelist writes, Jesus provides direction to his disciples, commanding them to go forth and make disciples of all nations, sharing the Good News and Christ’s teachings with the entire world. As Christians, we are called to join in this task of growing God’s kingdom. As today’s second reading illustrates, this call is a hopeful one. All those who come to know the Lord and belong to his Church are destined to share his inheritance among the holy ones in heaven. ​

We may still be struck with moments of doubt, worry, and loneliness at times in this journey. Yet we do not walk alone. As Matthew the Evangelist writes, Jesus provided his disciples and provides for us today a powerful reminder: “I am with you always, until the end of the age.” Jesus’ promise of his presence in this life provides great comfort and helps us better understand our relationship to God. ​

The Ascension of Jesus is not a moment of fracture, where Jesus has left us behind. Rather, the Ascension is a moment of transformation, where humanity’s relationship to God deepens. As Christ’s parting words remind us, God is close to us and remains near, even when we doubt. So as Jesus joins God the Father at his right hand, we can rest knowing that our life’s journey is grounded in God’s loving presence. As we journey forth today to spread the Good News, may we be consoled and encouraged knowing that Jesus Christ, our divine compass and steadfast guide, is always with us. ​

Fr. Jean Jadotte
Pastor