Alleluia! Christ is risen!
He is risen indeed. Alleluia!

Whilst by the time this reaches you Easter may have come and gone, I am writing this during Holy Week of 2025. I have been reminded of many things this Lent but most of all I have been minded of the hope that comes through us, his Easter people. Whether in the depths of winter, the soul searching of Lent or the warmth of Spring, we are always the Easter people on earth. Indeed, I have seen something of that hope in you all these past weeks and months. What joy it is to greet you this Eastertide, as we once again proclaim the great hope of our faith: that love is stronger than death, and that in Christ, we are given new life.

In the stillness of Holy Saturday, we waited. In the shadows of Good Friday, we wept. But on Easter morning, the tomb was found empty and the world was changed forever. This is not just a story from long ago, but a living reality that continues to unfold in our midst. Wherever there is forgiveness, reconciliation, and courage in the face of despair, the Risen Christ walks among us.

As your curate, I have been moved again and again by the quiet faithfulness of our community: the unseen acts of kindness, the prayers whispered for others, the generous hands that serve without fanfare. This, too, is resurrection. This is life breaking through where we least expect it.

It is true that, as we look to the months ahead, at the looming interregnum, we may well be apprehensive and filled with uncertainty, if we did not remember the Easter life that we live. There is always hope and newness in our God, who works through our hope and faith to do great things. Just as, on Holy Saturday, the first disciples sat in silent despair and worry, so too may we currently be unsure. Yet the joy and light of Easter dispels the darkness of our fear and brings us into the warmth of God’s love.

Let us carry the light of Easter into the weeks and months ahead. Whether we feel full of joy or still burdened by sorrow, let us walk together as people of the Resurrection—people who dare to hope, to love, and to believe in the promise of new beginnings. I know many of you already live out such hope and faith, that although the future may seem uncertain, we may know that – when that time comes – we shall step up to the challenge ahead with God in our heart.

May the Risen Christ bring peace to your hearts, joy to your homes, and hope to all you meet.

Fr Jordan