"Christ indeed from death is risen, our new life obtaining. Have mercy, victor King, ever reigning! Amen. Alleluia." - Victimae paschali laudes for Easter Sunday The Resurrection of the Lord
Jesus Christ is Risen! He is Risen Indeed! Easter is a defining moment because the power of the resurrection of Jesus Christ bestows upon us the grace that transforms our lives. The gift of eternal life, the gift of forgiveness, and the gift of hope are all made possible by the Resurrection. Jesus Christ, both human and divine, perfectly fulfilled the will of His Father out of love for you and for me. What happened to Jesus Christ on the cross and in the tomb two thousand years ago matters to each one of us today and always.
The journey from darkness to light is one that we all experience, not just once, but at various times in life. Whatever is weighing you down at the present time – fear, anxiety, depression, or any other burden, is confronted by the hope that we have in Jesus Christ. God restores and makes all things new through Jesus Christ who is the source of our hope and joy. This is our faith, the message we proclaim through our daily witness of compassion and love.
We are all members of God's family. We are called at Easter, and at every single Mass, to celebrate the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ and to give thanks for what He has done for us. Let us respond to this invitation with joy in our hearts and hope for the future. May you have a blessed Easter!
Bishop Gregory Parkes
Did you know...
Most Reverend Gregory L. Parkes is the fifth Bishop of St. Petersburg. Prior to his appointment to the Diocese of St. Petersburg, Bishop Parkes served as the fifth Bishop of the Diocese of Pensacola-Tallahassee from 2012-2016. He was ordained to the priesthood for the Diocese of Orlando on June 26, 1999. Before answering the call to the priesthood, Bishop Parkes worked for several years in Tampa's banking industry.
