US bishops: This Easter season, let yourself be filled with joy

Washington D.C., Apr 17, 2017 / 19:31 pm

Easter is a joyous reminder that Jesus' Resurrection overcomes fear and doubt, the U.S. bishops said in their 2017 Easter message.

"Through Christ's passion, His burial in the tomb and His glorious resurrection, we come to realize the enormity of the Lord's sacrifice for us," Cardinal Daniel DiNardo, president of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops, said April 17.

While we may feel unworthy of this love, he said, "Let us not be afraid. Let's allow ourselves to be taken – even seized – with Easter joy."

Cardinal DiNardo, who heads the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston, reflected on Mary Magdalene's fear and doubt as she stood by the Tomb of Jesus Christ.

"There, it was Jesus who rescued Mary from her fears and darkness by calling her name," the cardinal said. "Jesus calls out to each of us by name today as He did the very first Easter Sunday. His promise fulfilled. His word brings life, 'I am the Good Shepherd and I know mine'."

"Jesus waits for you and me, embracing us in our moments of greatest need and desire," Cardinal DiNardo said. "Welcome the love of God into your life. Share it those around you, especially the most vulnerable of our sisters and brothers."

Cardinal DiNardo's message was recorded in a video posted to the Facebook page of the U.S. bishops' conference.