Out of the Tomb

Written by Rita Zyber on Holy Saturday

Today I’m feeling the paradox of Lent – there’s so much joy amid the sorrow of the paschal mystery.

I can see this in our RCIA (Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults) group. For months, they have been preparing with joy for the Easter Vigil Mass. Tonight, we’ll sing psalms with a huge choir. We’ll bless the fire and the water and unwrap a brand new paschal candle. Once again, I’ll be in tears as these new members of the Church hold out their hands, becoming part of the Eucharist for the first time.

But first, we stand in the empty church for rehearsal. The lighting is low and it’s quiet as we pray together. It feels still, like the tomb that held Jesus’ lifeless body for a short time.  Today, on Holy Saturday, we can imagine the pain and sorrow his followers – and especially Mary – must have felt as everything seemed to be over. On that Saturday so long ago, there was nothing but the tomb.

Fortunately, we know the tomb was not the end.  Death did not prevail and it doesn’t for us either. Tonight’s reading (one of many) assures us: We know that Christ, raised from the dead, dies no more; death no longer has power over him. (Romans 6: 3-11)

But the disciples did not yet know this, so they waited, confused and afraid. They waited, until Jesus, himself, came to them and said, “Peace be with you.”  That’s the peace we feel this Holy Saturday. Together, these 30 people have given great effort to their faith. They’ve all prayed and bonded and laughed together. They’ve experienced reconciliation and great emotion.

Now the peace comes.

This group understands that Easter Vigil is just the beginning. Already, they are looking for ways to live out their new faith – to be fully part of the Body of Christ. They want to be liturgical ministers, participate in service and share their new faith with others.

That’s what Jesus wanted. As he healed and served others, he also celebrated life with his friends and loved ones – the savior who fed people, changed water to wine and told us he would never leave us alone.

“With Christ joy is constantly born anew.” Pope Francis

Questions for Reflection:
Am I waiting in confusion, or am I seeking to learn and deepen my relationship with God?
Do I approach the Eucharist each week with as much enthusiasm and desire as our newest members?

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Rita Zyber
Rita joined the St. Mary’s staff in 2014 to serve as the RCIA Assistant/Coordinator. Rita has previous staff experience at St. Francis of Assisi Parish in Ann Arbor, as well as years of volunteer service in religious education, stewardship, music ministry and RCIA. She is also a freelance writer. She and her husband, Frank, have two college-age daughters, Claire and Lauren.
Email: rzyber@smspnewman.org