On this Third Sunday of Easter, the joy of the Resurrection continues to echo in our hearts. The Risen Christ reveals Himself once again to His disciples, this time by the Sea of Tiberias. After a long night of fruitless labor, Jesus calls out to them, and following His instruction, they make an overwhelming catch of fish. It is in this simple, familiar act that the disciples recognize it is the Lord.

But the true heart of today’s Gospel lies in the tender dialogue between Jesus and Peter. Three times Jesus asks Peter, “Do you love me?”—mirroring Peter’s earlier three denials. Each time Peter responds, Jesus entrusts him with a mission: “Feed my lambs. Tend my sheep. Feed my sheep.”

Jesus is not simply forgiving Peter; He is restoring him and commissioning him. It is a powerful reminder for all of us: our past failures do not disqualify us from God’s love or His call to serve. In fact, it is often through our weaknesses and wounds that the Lord works most beautifully.

Reflection on the Readings

In the First Reading (Acts 5:27-32, 40b-41), we see Peter and the apostles boldly proclaiming the Resurrection, even under threat from the authorities. Their courage flows from their encounter with the Risen Christ—they now live not for themselves, but for the One who conquered death.

The Responsorial Psalm (Psalm 30) invites us to rejoice: “I will praise you, Lord, for you have rescued me.” Easter is a season of praise because we recognize that God’s mercy has lifted us from death into new life.

In the Second Reading (Revelation 5:11-14), we glimpse the heavenly worship of the Lamb who was slain and now lives forever. All creation joins in adoration, proclaiming the triumph of Christ over sin and death.

Reflection Questions for the Week:

1. Recognizing the Lord: How do I recognize the Risen Jesus at work in the ordinary events of my life?

2. Responding to Love: How is Jesus asking me to show my love for Him by caring for others—feeding His lambs and tending His sheep?

3. Witnessing with Courage: Like the apostles, am I willing to witness boldly to my faith, even when it is difficult?

Congratulations to Our Newly Confirmed and First Communicants

It is with great joy that I extend heartfelt congratulations to our young people who have recently celebrated important milestones in their journey of faith:

• On April 27, our Confirmation Class of 2025 received the gifts of the Holy Spirit. We are so proud of your courage and commitment to living as mature witnesses of Christ! May the Spirit continue to strengthen and guide you always.

• On May 3, our First Communicants received Jesus in the Eucharist for the very first time. What a beautiful moment of grace! May your love for Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament grow stronger with each passing day.

Thank you to all our catechists, families, and volunteers who have helped prepare these young hearts to receive the sacraments with faith and joy. You are truly helping to build the future of the Church.

Closing Thoughts

Dear friends, as we continue our Easter journey, let us remember: the Lord calls each of us by name. He meets us in our daily lives, forgives us, restores us, and sends us out to be His witnesses.

Let us pray for the grace to respond with love and courage, to feed the flock entrusted to us, and to live each day in the radiant light of the Resurrection.

May the joy of the Risen Christ continue to fill your hearts and homes!

With Easter blessings,
Fr. Matt