​Resurrection  of  the  Lord  Parish

​​​ Second Sunday of Easter    

Diocesan Publication 

One of the great Easter traditions is “mystagogy,” an ancient word meaning “reflection on the mysteries.” It is a style of catechesis, or passing on the faith. People who have shared an experience, in this case those who have been baptized at Easter, are urged to recall their experience, reflect on its meaning, and apply their insights to their new way of life.

There is an aspect of an experience that is simply not available until you’ve had it. For example, you may think you know weddings inside out; you’ve been to dozens, seen hundreds in the movies or on television, but until you’ve said “I do” to another, there is a certain knowledge unavailable to you. Those who go down into the waters of baptism as adults have similar experiences; they have all taken baths before, but not like this one! Mystagogy helps such persons to uncover the deep meaning of the experience, their sense of a new beginning, of God’s abundant love, of forgiveness, of community. It takes time for the power of the Easter Vigil to work its wonders for us. Those who are newly baptized are called “neophytes,” meaning “newly planted.” The tender buds of spring need care and nurturing, and our new brothers and sisters need your prayer and your faithful example.

—Rev. James Field

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