Catholic News Service • Posted April 12, 2017

The great feast of the resurrection of Jesus sets the tone for all Christian living. Our package from partner Catholic News Service presents reflections and catechesis plus family Easter crafts and even a sizzling recipe to help your celebration and understanding of new life in the risen Christ.

Roll away the stone to see possibility of new life
The Gospel reading for Easter and a popular new song tell us that the stone at Jesus’ tomb was not rolled away for his benefit — he came through locked doors — but so we disciples could see the glory of God.

Being Easter people informs how parish prays and acts
At Father Herb Weber’s parish, the conviction that the resurrection of Jesus has made a difference in his parishioners’ own lives affects the way the parish gathers for worship and performs works of service.

The origins of Lent and Easter
The ancient liturgical celebrations of Holy Week and Easter have changed over the centuries, writes a Catholic professor, but bishops then and now recognized the great status of this time of common worship by believers in Christ.

The resurrection through Mary’s eyes
 Judging by the great suffering of Mary, the mother of Jesus, during his passion and death, how great must her exuberance have been about his resurrection? Marge Fenelon invites a meditation on Mary’s joy at Easter.

 

The liberation Easter brings
Easter begins in the darkness and at night, when the great vigil Mass for this central Christian feast is celebrated. Yet Easter is all about moving from the night “full of gladness” to daylight — a “new day” in time.

Easter treats and crafts for family time
Kelly Bothum shares three fun and simple Easter crafts that, while not replacing the Easter baskets, have helped her kids keep a connection with their Catholic faith.

Easter recipe: Pomegranate marinated lamb roast with gremolata
Lamb is the quintessential symbol of sacrifice and renewal that pays homage to our Judeo-Christian roots and honors Jesus, the Lamb of God. This recipe presents roasted lamb as the perfect centerpiece for the Easter table.