Faith Reflection and RE News
Faith Reflection
John 20:1-9 - The teaching of Scripture is that he must rise from the dead.
In this week’s Sunday Gospel reading, we read the account of the disciples coming to the empty tomb. Mary Magdalene sees that the stone covering its entrance has been moved, so she runs to Simon Peter in a panic, fearing that someone had stolen Jesus’ body. They run back to let the other disciples know about what had happened, returning to the tomb to find that the linen that had been on the body was now folded. The passage ends by saying, “till this moment they had failed to understand the teaching of Scripture, that he must rise from the dead.” It is hard to picture what must have been going through their minds at the time – from fear and panic to the “ah-ha!” moment soon after. Upon seeing Jesus later, the disciples would see that everything that had happened previously was leading up to that moment. There are some analogies we can look to that might be able to help us.
A good chess player is able to move the pieces around, from the smallest pawn to the queen, in such a way that often the other player doesn’t see what is happening. The pieces have different roles, with each moving following different rules. Perhaps we can take this metaphor further in that each piece that is moved does not necessarily know its part in the greater plan, or indeed who their master is. For the opponent, it is often not until the last minute that all is revealed. Looking back, we can see the plan and understand the movements. The Old Testament (Isaiah 55:8-9) phrases this eloquently – “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways.” In other words, God’s plans are so above our own; like the chess master and the pieces, we are unable to see how all the parts connect.
The Greek philosopher Plato gives another metaphor we can use. He gives the hypothetical of people who are trapped in a cave and can only see the outside world through the shadows on the cave wall. If one person went outside the cave, they would see everything perfectly! But how would they explain what they saw when they come back again? No matter how good the explanation, those who are still in the cave could barely fathom what it is like outside!
As Christians, we have faith that Jesus died and was risen from the tomb. However, much like the person who had been outside the cave, it can be near impossible to convince others about what we understand is true – no matter how much we try! Also, we haven’t really gone outside the cave yet; through Jesus and the Sacraments, we only get a glimmer. Just enough that we can see there is something out there, and that we know what Jesus says is true.
May this Easter be a time that we see these glimmers in our lives. Be it through the joy found being with our family and friends this weekend or as we spend this week in deep prayer and reflection.
Wishing you all a blessed Easter!
Jonathan Rooney
Religious Education Leader
RE News
Way of the Cross Liturgy
On Thursday, March 28th, at 9:00 a.m., the Mini Vinnies and SRC students will be leading the Way of the Cross. The Way of the Cross is a Christian tradition that commemorates the events leading up to the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. It consists of fourteen different stations (or scenes) which the children will act out. This allows us to reflect on the Easter events and consider what they mean to each of us. Parents are welcome to attend.
When: Thursday, March 28th, at 9:00 a.m.
Where: Parish Church
Sacraments
Confirmation - Sunday 28th July @ 2.00pm
First Communion - Saturday 9th November @ 6.00pm
Sunday 10th November @ 10.00am
Saturday 16th November @ 6.00pm
Sunday 17th November @ 10.00am
Project Compassion
A friendly reminder that St John Vianney's is raising money for project compassion. A HUUUGEE thank you to everyone who has contributed so far. We have raised $300.00 - thank you!
Please use the link below or use the QR code.
https://schools.projectcompassion.org.au/st-john-vianneys-school
