May Jesus Christ who suffered for our sins and opened the way to eternal life, be with you!

In two weeks, the season of Easter will come to an end, with the celebration of Pentecost Sunday.  During these fifty days of Easter, we have heard and read from scripture, how Jesus continued to make His mark upon those whom He visited. Those visits to particular people were to encourage them, strengthen them, and offer faith, hope, and inspiration.

Today's scriptures are filled with messages of inspiration for all of us.  In the first reading, we hear remarkable stories of healing.  In the second reading Saint Peter reminds us to be ready to let others know why we are people who live in hope.  And in today's Gospel, the Lord Jesus promises that he will send the Holy Spirit.

On your journey of life who has inspired you? Who offered you inspiration, hope, and encouragement.  For me, it was those people who fought for equal rights for blacks: Nelson Mandela, Fr. Ralph Campbell, a Jesuit priest to whom I attribute my vocation, Sr. Marie de Porres, Archbishop James Lyke, Sr. Mary Lydon, and YES...Jesus Christ, who offered Himself so that we may have eternal life.

As we continue our sojourn through the fifty days of Easter joy, let us acknowledge the presence of those who inspired us, and hopefully ... Jesus Christ will be on that list.

Peace,

Msgr. Britto