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How do we pray today? What do we pray about?
We pray in and through the desires of our hearts and the work of our hands.
We pray in the words of our lips and the gestures of our bodies.
We pray by contemplating God's revelation in Scripture and in the experiences of each day.
We pray alone, in small groups, in large gatherings of worship.
We pray where we live and where we work, at congregational gatherings and with God's people whom we serve.
Listen to Sisters and Associates of Charity as they reflect on the special graces of the season in response to the question, “As you celebrate Easter this year, what gives you hope?”
What gives me hope? Spring! I see signs of new life everywhere, coming out of what looks like death. And Spring leads to Easter. Jesus’ rising from the dead surely gives us hope.
Sr. Teresita Duque, SC
Photo Credit:
Cherry Blossoms at MSV
by Sr. Regina Bechtle, SC
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I cannot speak or even think of hope without trust also entering in. For me, hope implies trusting that what God desires for us will come to pass. Each year we have a chance to examine where we are in this process. The events of Holy Week, culminating with Jesus' resurrection, make hope less some nebulous concept and more a reality for those who will but trust.
Connie Kraham Velez, SCNY Associate
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Photo Credit:
Sr. Jean Flannelly, SC |
I find hope in the Eucharist, the broken body and blood of Christ. Every Eucharist we come to the Table as we are – weak, broken, victorious and blessed! In this celebration, we are continually reminded of whose we are and the promises of God rooted in the work and sacrifice of a Risen, Redeeming Savior. This Easter, my hope is that we will continue to see God in all his people gathered at the Table.
Rowena Kemp, SCNY Associate
When I reflect on the past months, I realize how difficult they have been for so many people. Wars, world tragedies, suffering, and the death of loved ones, can easily thrust us into a state of hopelessness. With this on my mind, I opened the door to leave, and was amazed and delighted! Amidst the dead grass, rocks, and sandy soil, was a beautiful carpet of purple crocuses. It truly lifted my spirits! I realized that hopelessness can be changed into hope.
During Holy Week, I shall reflect on the horrific things that happened to Jesus. However, I know that on Easter, I shall celebrate the rising of Jesus. I have hope this Easter because I know that his presence and love in our lives far surpass any difficulty that might occur. I find my hope in Jesus and in all the people who spend their energies bringing hope to others.
Sr. Bernadette Del Frate, SC
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