THIRD SUNDAY OF EASTER

Dear parishioners and friends of St. Julia Parish,
This Sunday's Gospel from Luke recounts the events as the two disciples who met Jesus on the road to Emmaus return to the upper room to tell their story.

In many ways, this Gospel sounds almost the same as last week’s Gospel from John when Jesus appears to his frightened disciples in the Upper Room to reassure them and bring them “Peace.” Jesus likely was using the Hebrew greeting: “Shalom” which means much more than peace and quiet. Its meaning includes
peace
harmony
wholeness
completeness
prosperity
welfare
tranquility

This is what I want for each and every one of us.  Where does this gift of peace come from?  The Prince of Peace himself, Jesus Christ.  It begins with His Word, and is fed and nourished by His presence in the sacraments.

Pay attention to how many times the word Peace is spoken in the mass.  It is the gift that Jesus wants to give us this day.
Peace be with you.

May God continue to bless and protect each of you and those that you love, and may the peace of Christ be with you always.
Fr. Greg