Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

This Fifth Sunday of Easter continues to immerse us in the light and joy of the Resurrection. The Gospel places us in the Upper Room with Jesus and His disciples during the Last Supper. There, on the eve of His Passion, Jesus offers them—and us—a final and defining commandment: “Love one another as I have loved you.”

This is not a suggestion. It is a new standard for Christian living. No longer are we called simply to treat others as we would like to be treated. We are now called to love as Christ loves: with a love that forgives, that serves, that sacrifices, and that never turns away from the suffering or brokenhearted. It is this love—visible, practical, and generous—that becomes the hallmark of discipleship.

Love in Action: A Reflection on the Readings

In the First Reading (Acts 14:21-27), we see Paul and Barnabas tirelessly visiting young Christian communities. Their mission is not easy—they face resistance and persecution—but they persevere out of love for the Gospel and the Church. Their words echo through time: “It is necessary for us to undergo many hardships to enter the kingdom of God.” The Christian life is not always comfortable, but it is always worth it when rooted in love.

The Second Reading (Revelation 21:1-5a) lifts our gaze to a new heaven and a new earth, where God Himself will dwell among His people, wiping away every tear. This is the future that awaits those who remain faithful in love. Even now, in our acts of mercy and compassion, we participate in that vision. The Church, when it loves deeply, becomes a living glimpse of the Kingdom to come.

In the Gospel (John 13:31-35), Jesus knows the Cross is just hours away, yet His focus is not on fear but on love. He calls His followers to live in such a way that the world will look at the Church and say, “See how they love one another.”

A Historic Moment: The Election of Pope Leo XIV

Last week, the Catholic Church rejoices in an extraordinary and historic moment: the election of Pope Leo XIV, the first American-born pope in the history of the Church. His election is a sign of the universality of the Church—that from every land and culture, the Lord calls leaders to guide His people. It is also a moment of great joy for Catholics across the United States, as we witness one of our own rise to the Chair of Peter. Pope Leo XIV brings with him not only deep theological wisdom and pastoral experience, but also a heart formed by the diversity, struggles, and vitality of the Church in America. As he begins his pontificate, let us lift him in prayer with one voice:

“Lord Jesus, Good Shepherd, guide Pope Leo XIV with the light of your Spirit. Grant him the strength to lead your Church with wisdom, humility, and courage. May his ministry be a blessing to the world and a beacon of unity among your people.”

May we all recommit ourselves to unity in the Church, offering our prayers, our support, and our own lives in service to Christ and His Gospel.

Reflection Questions for the Week:

• Love Lived Out: How is Christ calling me to love someone in my life right now—especially someone difficult to love?
• Enduring in Faith: What hardship am I facing that might be transformed if I embrace it with love and trust in Christ?
• Praying for the Church: How can I support the mission of Pope Leo XIV and the global Church through prayer, encouragement, and active participation?

Easter is not just a season—it is a way of life. The Resurrection changes everything. It assures us that love is more powerful than death, that mercy is stronger than sin, and that God’s plan for His people is always one of renewal, hope, and glory.

Let us take these Easter days seriously, not just with celebration, but with commitment. Let us love boldly, forgive generously, serve humbly, and live joyfully. Let our parish be a community where the world can truly say: “See how they love one another.”