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‘Make the truth of Easter a way of life’

By Bishop Terry R. LaValley

April 8, 2020

Dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ:

Easter 2020 – one we won’t soon forget! Over the past several weeks, events in our world have impacted greatly our families, our work, and our educational and recreational lives. The coronavirus pandemic has upset our religious routine. Our Lenten disciplines have been compromised—we were unable to celebrate Mass, join our fellow parishioners in parish Lenten Penance Services, Stations of the Cross, Parish Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament, Lenten Adult Ed. Classes and Lenten Soup Suppers. We had all the best of intentions to be faithful to our Lenten resolutions. Then came that most unwelcome intruder, the COVID-19.

Perhaps it didn’t “feel like Lent” to you. But hasn’t it been a real desert experience? This year, the Lenten Season has truly been a pilgrimage of faith in the desert. Pilgrims often encounter the unexpected in their travels. How we deal with the unexpected can make a difference in the fruitfulness of the journey. The desert can provide the setting for conversion and intimacy with the Lord. Has this unique Lent prepared us well for the Easter event? I’m confident that through prayer, fasting and sacrifice you and your loved ones have been well equipped for the journey through the desert as we now arrive at the Easter Event.

He is Risen! Easter is more than a one-day affair. We are invited to make the truth of Easter a way of life, each in our own way striving to bring light where there is darkness, hope where there is discouragement, and community building where there is loneliness and division. We will continue to sing a song of joy and live a life of confident courage as we follow the Risen Christ. He is Risen! The Risen Christ brings healing and lasting peace in the midst of an anxious and hurting world.

We come away with 2020 Vision this Easter because we see with the eyes of the Risen Christ all those hurting so much in our world. We are more attentive to the needs of others. We earnestly desire to bring the light of Christ into the lives of others. We resolve to grow even closer to Jesus through intimate prayer and works of mercy. We are meant for more than what this world has to offer. So, we rejoice: Alleluia! He has Risen!

Happy and Blessed Easter to you and your loved ones!

Faithfully yours in Christ,


Most Reverend
Terry R. LaValley
Bishop of Ogdensburg

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