8 April 2025
Last Saturday morning I met with a cross section of lay leaders who devote many volunteer hours to our worship ministries. Our task was to evaluate what went well with Lent, Holy Week, and Easter, as well as what we might improve for the future. We also looked at the upcoming feasts.
On Sunday evening at the Rector's Study we also invited the participants to reflect upon their experience of Lent, Holy Week, and Easter. We divided into multiple small groups so that people could share what was meaningful from the liturgies. I also encouraged the participants to ask why certain things are executed in certain ways. The crotalus (the special devise used in place of the bells on Maundy Thursday) was of special interest, and we also spent a good deal of time discussing where baptisms may be done during the Easter Vigil - before or after the Gospel. Both positions have strengths and weaknesses liturgically.
From the very earliest times, the Church has invited her members to reflect upon Holy Week and Easter. This has been especially true for those who are newly baptized at the Vigil, thus enjoying the Sacraments for the first time. Mystagogia is the technical term for this Eastertide reflection. It simply means the interpretation of mystery. Having journeyed through Holy Week and Easter Day, we spend time reflecting upon the mysteries we have experienced as a community together. It has been wonderful to hear so many of you speak eloquently about your Holy Week experiences this year.
As we continue to move through Eastertide, I encourage you to enjoy everything the church has to offer. The liturgical riches continue for an entire fifty days, culminating with the Day of Pentecost. In a world where everything is rushed, and in a world where reflection is seldom encouraged, use these magnificent fifty days to reflect upon the blessings that the faith showers upon you daily.
Happy Eastertide,
Father Paul Lillie +
