Two Saturdays ago, we at Saint Raymond’s were blessed to host the “7 Last Words” sponsored by the Missionary Families of Christ – TriValley. In my reflection, I shared that as a child, I would hear the Gospel account of Christ’s Passion and I would keep hoping it would have another ending: I hoped that the soldiers would turn back, or Pilate would change his mind, or the people would cry out for Jesus to be the one freed instead of Barabbas. What happens is so heart-wrenching and heartbreaking — you just do not want to imagine that this is the way it happened. There has to be another ending. But there isn’t. It is inevitable: the effect is definitely devastating, and at the same time, life-giving.

Specifically today on Good Friday, our experience of the Gospel narrative is heightened by everything around us. There is a profound sense of loss, of absence, in the church right now. No bells. No decorations. Mournful music. An empty tabernacle. A bare altar. Red vestments — a symbol of martyrdom, a reminder of blood that was shed.

Today is the only day in the Church calendar when the Mass is not celebrated. All we can do is remember once more what was given for us. Grieve. We relive it. We reflect.

There are only two Sacraments that are offered on the day we commemorate the crucifixion: Reconciliation and the Anointing of the Sick. These are sacraments of renewal, forgiveness and healing. They underscore what this day is about — and point to one reason why we call this Friday good.

Because of what happened this day, more than 2000 years ago, we can begin again. Because of what happened this day, our world has been remade.

Christ’s last words in the Gospel tell us: “It is finished.” But what is finished? Christ’s earthly life is finished. A long chapter in human history is finished. Our old way of living is finished. Humanity’s wait for a savior is finished.

And as much as we may want this Gospel to have another ending, like I did at one point, we realize that God’s overwhelming love gave us something better: the Cross of Christ, His very self.

Later as you wait for your turn to venerate the Cross with a reverent bow, offer up something to Jesus and say a prayer for someone in need. Thank Him for what He has done for you and tell Him you love Him.

One chapter is finished, and another one is set to begin. May you commit to turn a new leaf in your life, too, and start afresh – through Him, with Him and in Him.

****

Exactly a year ago today, I celebrated my first Mass here with you. My heart is overflowing with joy, in fact bursting might be the better term to use, for the tremendous support and encouragement I have received from this faithful community since Day 1. My young ministry as a priest had taught me a lot of things, and spending a full year here at Saint Raymond’s has reaffirmed for me the truth that God provides. Many times, I do not know what I am doing, but He definitely knows what He is doing!

Thank you very much. Maraming salamat po! Muchas gracias.

Peace and blessings,
Father Erick

(For Good Friday, 2021)