CHRIST CHURCH URC EASTER MESSAGE
Pastoral Letter for April 2026 Revd Dr Irene John
Dear Friends,
Happy Easter!
Christ is alive! He comes to bring justice, love, healing, and dignity for all.Three significant dates we have observed since the start of 2026 that resonates with Christ’s desire for justice, love, healing and dignity for all, are: The week of prayer for Christian unity observed from 18th to 25th January, materials prepared this year by the Armenian Christians with the theme: There is one body and one Spirit, just as there is one hope to which God has called you -Ephesians 4:4. The second was Racial Justice Sunday held on 8th February material published by Churches in England and Ireland on the theme:Love your neighbour- Galatians 5:14. The third date is the World Day of Prayer held on 5th March, prepared by the Nigerian Christian women with the theme:I will give you rest, come– Matthew 11:28.All three observed by the global community of Christians and supporters on the same dates at times appropriate to their country,are visible demonstration of our interconnectedness with God’s global community. In a world where racism, discrimination, injustice and dehumanising of others find new expressions every day, observing these significant dates above and reflecting on the themes based on scriptures are reminders that not only has God created all humans in his image and likeness, but he alsoenriches us with diversity in all its beauty and uniqueness. Moreover, Christ went all the way to calvary to give life in all its fullness to all. We as his followers have the responsibility to help in creating harmonious communities where all human life has dignity and respect.
Recently, I had the opportunity of attending a community meeting in a school in Lancaster. Individuals in attendance were from various countries with diverse culturaland social backgrounds, yet the created atmosphere was one of mutual respect and acceptance. I left that meeting feeling very uplifted and thinking what a difference it would make if, as believers belonging to the worldwide body of Christ,we aim at treating others, whoever and wherever they are with respect and dignitythe world can become a better place. Friends as we continue our journey in Christ as Easter people let us not just talk the talk, but work towards enhancing life, bringing about justice, love, healing, and dignity for all. That is why the Christ who is alive paid the ultimate price.
Blessing:A Franciscan Benediction
May God bless you with discomfort at easy answers, half-truths, and superficial relationships, so that you may live deep within your heart.
May God bless you with anger at injustice, oppression, and exploitation of people, so that you may work for justice, freedom, and peace.
May God bless you with tears to shed for those who suffer pain, rejection, hunger, and war, so that you may reach out your hand to comfort them and turn their pain into joy.
And may God bless you with enough foolishness to believe that you can make a difference in the world, so that you can do what others claim cannot be done to bring justice and kindness to all our children and the poor. Amen
Easter blessings
Irene