Cardinal David: ‘Step out, meet the Risen Lord’

Kalookan Bishop Pablo Virgilio Cardinal David urged Catholics to meet the Risen Jesus Christ this Easter Sunday by stepping out of the darkness that covered one’s heart.

During the Easter Sunday Mass at the Diocesan Shrine and Parish of the Immaculate Conception in Malabon City, David said this darkness can be resentment, anger, or even one’s bias.

“It’s like what’s happening in our country. How can we recognize leaders who genuinely care for our people, when we allow our eyes to be blinded by ayuda? When we mistake propaganda and viral posts on social media for truth? When our hearts are full of resentment and anger, how can we see hope? When we allow bitterness to fester, how can light break in?” David said during his homily.

“The message of Easter is this: If you truly wish to meet the Risen Lord, you have to step out. You have to come out of hiding. You have to walk into the light,” he added.

David explained that the faithful might not recognize Jesus Christ’s presence surrounding them if their “hearts are covered in darkness.”

He said for the faithful not to go astray, there are signs and markers guiding them back to the “truth.”

“That’s why it’s important for the younger generation to listen to the wisdom of those who’ve gone before them. If not, they might get lost—and miss out on the future waiting to meet them,”

A community in solidarity

Echoing Czech priest and theologian Fr. Tomas Halik, Manila Archbishop Jose Cardinal Advincula said the Catholic Church today is a “community of the shaker,” where everything changes rapidly.

“From politics and economy to education and Artificial Intelligence, everything is trembling and moving. The truth is not easily discernible. Fake news and lies are capturing our digital and communal spaces. Our human and Christian values are challenged from all sides. It is easy for us to get lost and feel defeated,” Advincula said in his Easter Sunday message.

However, Advincula said, the fast-paced world can lead Catholics to become a "community of synodality and solidarity.”

“Being shaken should not terrify us,” the prelate said. “We do not give in to panic or rage. We journey together with courage and patience. We stand firmly on our anchor and strong foundation.”

He urged Catholics to be “joyful servants of hope” and share the “joy and peace” of the Risen Lord with the community.

“Let us continue to be pilgrims of hope in a mission of mercy and love,” Advincula said.

Concluding the Paschal Triduum, the Catholic Church celebrates the Easter Vigil before daybreak of Easter Sunday.

Easter is the celebration of the resurrection of Jesus Christ and reminds Catholics of the anticipation of His second coming.

The celebration of Easter will be concluded on Pentecost Sunday. This year, it will be observed on June 8. — BM, GMA Integrated News