By Sister Catherine Cleary, OSB

These past few weeks, we have been burdened and puzzled by the dark and bone-chilling so-called spring days. It is with great eagerness that we have anticipated the vanishing of darkness forever. We have looked forward to hearing the joyful notes of “Christ has conquered!”

Rejoice, O earth, in shining splendor,
Radiant in the brightness of your King!
Christ has conquered! Glory fills you!
Darkness vanishes forever!

This Exsultet, an ancient chant, is sung by Sister Teresa Ann Harrington, at the beginning of our services on Holy Saturday night. The darkened chapel is lit only by the Sisters’ burning candles and the sound of “Rejoice, O earth, in shining splendor!”

This, for me, is THE MOMENT of the Feast of the Resurrection! We have seen crocuses, dandelions, a host of daffodils on the hill. We know Jesus is among us; spring is here.

“May Christ, that Morning Star,
who came back from the dead
shed his peaceful light on all mankind.”

May the peaceful light of the Risen Christ, the Morning star which never sets find this flame still burning in your hearts and among your loved ones.

A Blessed Easter.