This is the night of which it is written:
The night shall be as bright as day,
dazzling is the night for me, and full of gladness.
 
The sanctifying power of this night dispels wickedness, washes faults away,
restores innocence to the fallen, and joy to mourners,
drives out hatred, fosters concord, and brings down the mighty.
 
(The Exsultet – The Solemn Proclamation of Easter)

On behalf of the entire staff of St. Joan of Arc Parish, I wish to extend to you and your family our prayers and best wishes as we celebrate the resurrection of Christ.  If you are a visitor this weekend know that you are always welcome at our awesome parish!  We are glad you came to worship with us.
 
We rejoice with all of creation in Christ’s resurrection and the power this day brings.  Yes, there is great power in this day for it “dispels wickedness, washes faults away, restores innocence to the fallen, and joy to mourners, drives out hatred, fosters concord, and brings down the mighty.”
 
Yet the question remains whether we truly recognize and use the power and grace given to us in the resurrection of Christ.  Have we allowed this great message to transform our hearts and our lives?  Do we allow it to bring us joy, drive out hatreds and bring us peace?
 
May we become like the early followers of Christ who used the power and grace of the resurrection to transform lives.  In Christ’s name may we go forth to bring peace to our family and friends, may we go out and bring mourners joy and, most importantly, may we go out and help dispel all kinds of evil so that the kingdom of Christ may continue to grow in our midst.