Easter Greeting from Canon Scott Leannah
Grace, Madison 2023
Dear friends in Christ,
A blessed and happy Easter to you! During Holy Week and at Easter, we celebrate in a profound way the central tenet of our faith: in the Paschal Mystery, Jesus conquered evil, sin, and even death itself. By his holy cross, Jesus Christ has redeemed the world.
This is the story of God’s power at work in this world. We celebrate the unique event of Christ’s resurrection and the many ways that, through God’s grace, the dynamic of resurrection brings hope and new life. While all has been redeemed, all is not yet restored. Yet even as we acknowledge the realities of division, violence, and the brokenness that marks our shared journey on this “fragile island home,” we are witnesses to so much grace, wonder, and beauty! In times of uncertainty, fear, and unanswered questions, people of faith, trusting in the message of Easter, continue to offer praise, service, solidarity, and hope. This praise, service, solidarity, and hope are lived abundantly and experienced in varied ways within the congregations that make up our shared life.
The resurrection of Jesus is God’s final judgment. With St. Paul, we can say, “Death, where is your sting? Death, where is your victory?” The power of sin is defeated. Easter is the very powerful message to us that nothing we can do can separate us from God’s reconciling love—nothing! In embracing the cross, Jesus shows us that we never walk alone; we never face anything in life without his presence and love.
Each of us is called to embody the love, new life, and hope of Easter every day. Let us do this by word and example, sharing with others to the Good News of Easter Day: Alleluia! The Lord is risen! He is risen indeed! Alleluia!
Scott+
The Rev. Canon Scott Leannah
Canon to the Ordinary
