Members of St. Boniface Catholic Church, at the solemn beginning of the Easter Vigil, celebrated the Service of Light. The image of darkness turning into light was central in the Old Testament readings, beginning with the Creation story (Genesis 1:1-22). Many of the symbols and beliefs of our faith are rooted in this account: 1) the image of light; 2) the creation of man in the image and likeness of God; 3) the stewardship of the earth given to man; and 4) the worship of God on Sunday.

The Liturgy of Light began outside the church where members gathered as Fr. Luke blessed the fire upon which the oil used in the sacraments of the past year were burned. Members then processed into the darkened church with candles lit from the Paschal candle. Next was the Liturgy of the Word with numerous readings, responsorial psalms and prayers. During the Liturgy of Baptism, members renewed their baptismal vows. The Gospel according to Mark 16:1-7 tells us we cannot keep the Gospel message to ourselves.

In his Homily, Fr. Luke told those gathered that the Resurrection changed the concept of death. Jesus comes as the True Light to remove the darkness of sin. Christ spread the Light; His Light. We ALL received that Light as well. We must share it, spread it to others. As we received, we must share. Jesus spoke no words as he rose from the tomb. He didn't have to! We need to be transparent Christians ... that is to live so that everyone may see Christ dwelling in us. We must spread the Word of the Risen Christ.

The ladies of the Altar Society are having a Yard Sale! They are accepting donations of clean, tagged, sellable items for the April 16- 17-18th sale. On Saturday the 18th the Youth will hold a car wash!

Anyone interested in joining the Evangelization Committee is invited to sign up on the sheet in the community room. Fr. Luke intends to make the committee very active. Your commitment to serving the Parish in this capacity is greatly appreciated.

Please note that there will be a Youth meeting on April 22nd at 6:30 pm. Also, the 9:30 Mass on the 26th of April will be a Youth Mass.

Congratulations and best wishes to all who are celebrating birthdays and anniversaries. We pray for the sick and suffering; that they may know the healing power of the Risen Christ. We pray, too, for the faithful departed: that they may rest in the Peace of Christ. We remember, too, the brave men and women serving in the armed services; that they may find strength and protection in Christ as they protect and defend our great nation and its people.

May God bless each of you!