Our Lord's words, when he addresses the disciples gathered together on the day of his resurrection, are "Peace be with you". This greeting, of the risen Lord to his new church, is echoed in the sign of peace at Mass. It's been more than a year since the peace was last physically shared by those attending Mass - some people may not miss it, but I know some do. It's just one element of what we do in church that serves to remind us of our unity and fellowship. And what binds us together, above all, is our Easter faith.
These are the words that open the Easter week parish newsletter of the parish where I go to Mass. It reminds me of the thought of Fr Cantalamessa on the Christological foundation of human fraternity in my last post. It is also the opening greeting of a bishop at the start of the celebration of Mass, which I hadn't until now appreciated for its Christological/ecclesiogical significance.
At the day time Mass of Easter, Pope Francis' first liturgical action is a witness to the resurrection, in the veneration of an icon showing the risen Lord.
The deacon opens the doors of the icon of the Most Holy Redeemer.
The deacon, turning to face the assembly, sings:
Allelulia, allelulia, alleluia.
The assembly sings:
Allelulia, allelulia, alleluia.
The deacon sings:
The Lord has risen from the tomb, who for us hung on the cross.
The assembly sings:
Allelulia, allelulia, alleluia.
The deacon, turning towards the Holy Father, sings:
The Lord has truly risen, and has appeared to Simon.
The assembly sings:
Allelulia, allelulia, alleluia.
The Holy Father venerates the icon.
Video and photographs here.
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