April, 2020

Easter Means That We Find Hope, Even in the Midst of an Pandemic

Dear Co-Redemptorist,

Fr. John Schmidt, C.Ss.R.

Today, as we confront the Coronavirus, we can find both strength and comfort in the paschal mystery: the passion of the cross reveals Christ’s glorification and we rejoice in new life.

Pope Francis began Lent with a reminder that “putting the paschal mystery at the center of our lives means feeling compassion towards the wounds of the crucified Christ present in the many innocent victims of wars, in attacks on life, from that of the unborn to that of the elderly, and various forms of violence.” Hopefully this helps shape how we live our Lent. At the center of Jesus’ compassion are those deeply wounded by destructive acts of others. Easter means that we find hope especially at these times, a hope that brings healing to the wounds of Christ’s people.

The wounds of the world have significant meaning for Redemptorist because we are called to bring Christ’s healing to people. This message of Christ is hope and Easter celebrates this hope in our world. Our Redemptorist students learn this message and live it through their apostolic outreach. During the summer they have the opportunity to explore deeply how to respond to the wounds they see. Their compassion gives hope as the presence of Christ to others.

Co-Redemptorists have a long history accompanying students throughout their formation. I thank you for supporting and praying for our seminarians and I ask you to pray for our novices as they prepare for vows. But you do more than give us financial support, you also follow a vocation to be a witness of the Redeemer; by your Christian life you bring hope to the world.

I pray that your Easter is a hopeful remembrance of Christ’s love for you. Bring the compassion you have from Christ to those you meet.

I also urge you to join me each day in this time of Coronavirus for this brief prayer to Our Mother of Perpetual Help:

Remember us Holy Mother of God!
For those who call on you are never disappointed.
In your love hear and answer us. Amen!

Thank you also for your past support, and while the Churches remain closed, please continue to include the Co-Redemptorist Association in your giving plans.

In Christ the Redeemer,
Father John K. Schmidt, C.Ss.R.
Director, Co-Redemptorist Association

P.S.: Have you considered including the Redemptorists in your estate plans? Through your stewardship, you share in our many Redemptorists ministries. Will you join us on this final journey of Faith? Jim Ruybal, the Director of Redemptorist Mission Advancement, is available to discuss a special legacy gift that can continue the Redemptorists’ work beyond your lifetime. Send him an email, or call at 303-726-0839.