Dear John,

On Palm Sunday, we remember both Jesus’ triumphal entry into Jerusalem, as well as His Sacred Passion.

As we listen to these accounts today, we know that these are historical events that happened in physical locations, which are revered today. Jesus walked this earth, just like you and me.

Jesus Christ truly lived, truly suffered, and truly died in the city of Jerusalem. He entered into His Passion so that we could be forgiven of our sins and in order to teach us the lessons of His love.

His arms are extended for love of us. His Heart is open for us.

Likewise, we can follow His perfect example by patiently enduring our own suffering, uniting it with His, offering it for love of Him who died for us.

Greatly to be loved is He who loved us so greatly.

May this Holy Week bring us closer to our Beloved One as we walk with Him on the Way of the Cross.

Here are today’s Mass readings:

At the Procession with Palms: St. Luke 19:28-40

First reading: Isaiah 50:4-7

Psalm: 22:8-9, 17-20, 23-24

Second reading: Philippians 2:6-11

Gospel: St. Luke 22:14-23:56 or 23:1-49

Here are some programs airing on EWTN that will help keep your heart centered on Christ this Holy Week:

LOVE, AGONY, AND HOPE: A JOURNEY INTO THE LIVES OF JESUS AND MARY ON HOLY THURSDAY AND GOOD FRIDAY
This narrated concert filled with sacred music celebrates the Passion of Jesus, the Last Supper, and the Blessed Sacrament.

April 10, 2:00 PM. (60 mins.)

THE LAST DAYS
Jonathan Roumie, star of The Chosen, portrays our Lord as the Passion of Christ is brought to life in this captivating dramatization of events from the Last Supper to Christ’s entombment.

April 14, 10:30 AM; April 15, 5:30 PM. (60 mins.)

WAY OF THE CROSS FROM ROME
The Holy Father, Pope Francis, presides over the Stations of the Cross.

April 15, 6:30 PM; April 16, 5:00 AM. (75 mins.)

I hope that you have blessed Holy Week, united to Christ our Lord.

In Christ,

Father Joseph

P.S. If you are inspired by this message, please forward it on to your loved ones.