Happy Easter!
Let us rejoice in the radiant light of Christ’s Resurrection!
As we walk together, may the Risen Lord guide our footsteps and inspire us to be instruments of His love in the world. Alleluia!
In 2025, we are celebrating a Jubilee Year. A powerful image for the Jubilee Year is open doors.
These open doors, highlighted in the annual Josephite calendar for 2025, have a spiritual meaning which I want to share with you.
The open door represents an invitation to conversion, reconciliation and a fresh start in Christ.
The open Holy Door is also a destination for pilgrims. Passing through the door symbolizes the spiritual journey of leaving sin behind and stepping into new life.
In a broader sense, open doors during the Holy Year reflect the Church’s mission to be open to everyone – especially those who feel far from God.
The stone that was rolled away from Christ’s tomb can be seen as a Holy Door. That stone wasn’t rolled away to let Jesus out; it was rolled away to let us in!
Don’t be afraid to step through the Holy Door this year. The church doors are open for you, your family, friends and neighbors.
Your generous support of the Society of St. Joseph of the Sacred Heart – Josephite priests and brothers – keeps the doors open in our parishes, schools, and communities.
Through your generosity, you bring the light of Easter to places where it is needed most.
We give thanks to our Risen Lord for giving us you, our dear friends, the bearers of His hope!
Together, we continue the work of evangelization and service in African American communities across the country, bringing the hope and joy of the Gospel to all we encounter.
Thank you for walking with us.
This Easter, may the light of Christ fill your heart with peace, renew your spirit with joy and strengthen you with His everlasting love.
Wishing you and your loved ones a blessed and joyful Easter season.
Bishop John H. Ricard
Superior General
Josephite Priests and Brothers
