The Empty Tomb

The Resurrection of the Lord

05 April 2026

 

First Reading: Acts 10:34a, 37-43

Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 118:1-2, 16-17, 22-23

Second Reading: Colossians 3:1-4 or 1 Corinthians 5:6b-8

Gospel: John 20:1-9 or Matthew 28:1-10

 

Reflection

By: Benj Santiago

The Resurrection of Christ is a message of hope for a nation often burdened by poverty, corruption, disasters, and uncertainty brought about by the Middle East conflict between Iran vs Israel and USA. 

Like the disciples who found the empty tomb, we are invited to believe even when situations look hopeless. 

The risen Christ reminds us that suffering is not the end, and darkness never has the final word. 

In a country facing economic hardship, rising prices, and social division, Easter calls us to renew our faith, rebuild our communities, and rise above fear with courage, unity, and compassion. 

Hope is alive, and new life is always possible.

Prayer

Lord Jesus, Risen Savior, in our nation burdened by poverty, corruption, disasters, and uncertainty, renew our hope. 

When life seems hopeless, help us believe in Your victory over darkness. Strengthen our faith, unite our people, and give us courage to rebuild with compassion. 

May Your Resurrection inspire new life in us all. Amen.

The Heartbeat of Easter

   

The Resurrection of the Lord

20 April 2025

 

First Reading: Acts 10:34a, 37-43

Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 118:1-2, 16-17, 22-23

Second Reading: Colossians 3:1-4 or 1 Corinthians 5:6b-8

Gospel: John 20:1-9

Reflection

By: Therese B. Manio

The Gospel of Easter Sunday tells a story that is both beautiful and mysterious. Mary Magdalene arrives at the tomb while it is still dark, only to find the stone rolled away. Peter and the beloved disciple come running, and though they don’t fully understand, they begin to believe. It’s a moment full of uncertainty, questions, and wonder but more than anything, it’s full of hope.

That same hope speaks to us today. Like those first followers of Jesus, we often walk through darkness, moments of grief, confusion, or waiting. Life throws challenges we don’t always understand. But just like the stone was already rolled away, God is already at work in our lives, even before we see it. The empty tomb isn’t just a part of the story—it’s a promise.

At first glance, Jesus dying on the cross might seem like a defeat. But it wasn’t. It was a victory, just not the kind the world expected. Jesus didn’t conquer with force. He overcame sin and death through forgiveness, mercy, and love. His Resurrection proved that love is stronger than hate, and hope is more powerful than fear. It wasn’t just about Jesus coming back to life, it was about all of us being given a chance at new life.

The Resurrection reminds us we are never truly alone. Jesus went through real pain, rejection, and fear. He knows what suffering feels like. But He also shows us that no pain, no failure, and no moment of darkness has the final word. There’s always more to the story. There’s always hope. God allowed Jesus to die and rise again so we could experience this hope for ourselves. He transforms what’s broken, makes new what was lost, and brings life where there seemed to be none. Every cross we carry can lead to a resurrection. That’s the core of our faith and the heartbeat of Easter.

In this Jubilee Year, with the theme “Pilgrims of Hope,” we are reminded that this journey isn’t just about us receiving hope, it’s about becoming hope for others. The world is full of people searching, grieving, or feeling stuck in the dark. We’re called to be like the beloved disciple who saw the signs and believed. We’re called to be like Mary, who ran to tell others: “I have seen the Lord.” Being an instrument of hope doesn’t always mean doing something huge. It could be listening to someone who’s hurting, offering kindness, or simply being there when someone needs you. In these small, quiet ways, we become living signs of the Resurrection.

As we walk through this Jubilee year together, may we carry the light of Easter in our hearts. Let us move forward with hope, not just for ourselves, but for everyone we meet. Because Christ is risen, and in Him, so is our hope.

Prayer

Risen Lord, thank You for the gift of Your love that conquers death and brings us everlasting hope. Help us to walk as true pilgrims of hope, carrying Your light into the lives of those around us. Give us the courage to believe, even in the darkness, and the grace to be signs of Your resurrection every day. Amen.

His Redemption

Easter Sunday

31 March 2024

 

First Reading: Acts 10:34,37-43

Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 117(118):1-2,16-17,22-23

Second Reading: Colossians 3:1-4

Gospel: John 20:1-9

 

Reflection

By: Grace B. Madriñan

 

“Till this moment they had failed to understand the teaching of scripture, that he must rise from the dead.” - John 20:9

While I am writing this reflection,  I can’t help but think of a good friend.  He suffered a hemorrhagic stroke and is currently in the hospital.  Actually, he is supposed to be the one to write the reflection for today’s Gospel.  

I know it is Easter Sunday and I am supposed to write about the summit of our faith, the glorious rising of Jesus Christ from the dead. But here I am stuck in a “Good Friday” state.    

I felt sad learning of what happened to my friend.  He is a worship leader, a co-preacher, a writer, an active servant of Christ,  how could something devastating happen to him? That was my first thought.  

But a few minutes after the thought,  I was reminded that Jesus is the Son of God and yet he suffered for us, brutally crucified and died on the cross. When it finally sinked in,  my tears got worse and I could not help but cry all the more. 

Jesus suffered far more than any person in this world.  How could I even question why it happened to my friend?

There is no resurrection without the crucifixion. There is no Easter Sunday without Good Friday. We know that now. But at the time of Easter morning,  I believe the disciples are even more confused.  They just saw their Master being crucified and now they arrived in an empty tomb. They are with the Lord everyday learning about his teachings and yet they still failed to understand. 

Jesus’ resurrection brings us hope and this is a good reminder for every dark hole we experience in our mortal life. 

If my friend suffered this stroke,  I firmly believe he will recover soon to tell the story and glorify the Lord even more.  I can’t wait for him to write his reflection about this experience, no longer as a third person but as someone who personally experienced His redemption. 

Prayer

Dearest Lord, thank You.  We don’t say it enough with our words and our actions, but we are truly grateful.  We are wholly indebted, elated by Your extravagant love.  Forgive our indifference and shortcomings.  Stay with us, guide us and never let us go.  Amen. 

Shout Joyfully to God

    

Sixth Sunday of Easter

14 May 2023

 

First Reading: Acts 8:5-8, 14-17

Responsorial Psalm: Ps 66:1-3, 4-5, 6-7, 16, 20

Second Reading: 1 Pt 3:15-18

Gospel: Jn 14:15-21

 

Reflection

By: Fely C. Santiago

“Let all the earth cry out to God with joy”

Easter is truly a joyful season. The Lord has risen. His resurrection has given us so much hope and unexplainable joy. And because of this, the disciples finally has become bold and brave to spread and to proclaim the good news and the people paid attention because of the many miracles and signs that Jesus has done after His resurrection. And because of their increase faith, the disciples were able to also perform miracles and cast out unclean spirits, cured the paralyzed and crippled, and many accepted the word of God. There was great joy in the city.

When we also answer God’s call and mission for us, it brings immense joy. Our life should also live the Paschal Mystery of His death and resurrection. Our journey here on earth is not a smooth journey. We face different kinds of challenges and difficulties in doing the mission God has called us to do but it brings immense joy knowing that we serve our God by loving others and bringing the kingdom of God closer to all the people that we meet. When we truly love, we are ready to make sacrifices and submit to the will of God with loving obedience. And in doing this, we experience real joy that can only come from God.

Prayer

Dear Lord, as I spend time with You, I am aware of how blessed I truly am. I think of the love and laughter in my life and I feel grateful. Thank You for always being there for me Lord and for finding joy even in the midst of trials and difficulties. Give me the grace to experience Your joy in every moment of my life. Amen.

First things first

    

Fourth Sunday of Easter

(World Day of Prayer for Vocations)

30 April 2023

 

First Reading: Acts 2:14a, 36-41

Responsorial Psalm: Ps 23:1-3a, 3b4, 5, 6

Second Reading: 1 Pt 2:20b-25

Gospel: Jn 10:1-10

 

Reflection

By: Pietro S. Albano

 

I am the gate. Whoever enters through me will be saved, and will come in and go out and find pasture. (Jn 10:9)

A few months ago, a parishioner from our neighbouring parish spoke in our church to invite us to join in their Prayer for Vocations devotion every Sunday afternoon. Prior to his talk, I have been expressing my personal views on the declining vocations to the priesthood in our diocese and in the whole world. I thought, the Church should have done this or that to address such a dilemma. When I heard that talk, I came to realise the first thing that Jesus Himself told His followers: "Pray the Lord of the harvest to send labourers into his harvest" (Mt 9:38; Lk 10:2). More often than not, I have taken this one simple act for granted.

In today’s Gospel, Jesus identifies Himself as the gate. A gate’s purpose is to protect the sheep from thieves who come “to steal and slaughter and destroy” (Jn 10:10). Reading the rest of the Gospel, Jesus identifies Himself as “the Good Shepherd” who “lays down His life for the sheep” (Jn 10:11). 

As we continue to celebrate the Lord’s victory over sin and death, let us follow His command to pray for more labourers - priests, deacons, and religious sisters and brothers – into the vast harvest, into the enormous flock of sheep.  Doing so, they would be able to gather all sheep and lead them to Jesus where there is salvation. And as we pray, let us also strive to be role models and affirm God’s calling to those who are discerning the priesthood, diaconate, or religious life.

Prayer

Lord Jesus, thank You for Your Word today. With you as our Good Shepherd, we shall not want. In Your powerful Name, please touch the hearts of men and women whom You call to Your rich harvest, to Your flock scattered all over the earth. Make them realise Your personal love for them. Give them the understanding, generosity, and courage to discern their service to the Church and follow Your call. Amen.

Hearts on Fire

    

Third Sunday of Easter

23 April 2023

 

First Reading: Acts 2:14, 22-23

Responsorial Psalm: Ps 16:1-2, 5, 7-8, 9-10, 11

Second Reading: 1 Pt 1:17-21

Gospel: Lk 24:13-35

 

Reflection

By: Pietro S. Albano

 

"Were not our hearts burning within us while he spoke to us on the way and opened the Scriptures to us? (Lk 24:32)

Fr. Anthony Dolan, a retired priest who lives next to our parish church, once encouraged us to listen to God's Word as though it was our first time hearing it. Indeed, there is  a temptation to take God's Word for granted especially if we have been so familiar with it.

In today's Gospel, the two disciples experienced hearing the Scriptures with fresh pair of ears on their way to Emmaus. Their being downcast at the apparent 'failure' of Jesus' death prevented them from recognizing Him. Out of His love, Jesus made the move to help them recall the Scriptures, realize its fulfillment in Him, and recognize their Master in the breaking of the bread.

Such action of Jesus is repeated every time the Mass is celebrated through the Liturgy of the Word and the Liturgy of the Eucharist. That is why it is really important that we come to church on time, otherwise we will be missing out either of these liturgies, the Liturgy of the Word especially. And if we do miss it out, we won't be able to appreciate the Liturgy of the Eucharist. Worse, we may not be able to receive Holy Communion.

Another suggestion is to read and reflect on the Mass readings beforehand. As a lector and as a worshipper, I find these practices really helpful in my service and in my spiritual growth. Preparing for Mass through God's Word fans the flame of love in our proud, fearful, or downcast hearts and makes us better witnesses of the Risen Lord. As the Responsorial Psallm goes "Lord, you will show us the path of life" (cf. Ps 16:11).

Prayer

Lord Jesus, thank You for Your Word today. Make our hearts burn as we listen to Your Word so that we too may always recognize You in the breaking of the bread, and proclaim the Good News of Your  Resurrection to all. Amen.

Peace says it all

    

Second Sunday of Easter (Divine Mercy Sunday)

16 April 2023

 

First Reading: Acts 2:42-47

Responsorial Psalm: Ps 118:2-4, 13-15, 22-24

Second Reading: 1 Pt 1:3-9

Gospel: Jn 20:19-31

 

Reflection

By: Pietro S. Albano

 

Peace be with you. (Jn 20:19).

Jon was my friend since high school. Such friendship developed through the years especially when we started serving the parish through the Apostleship of Prayer. We had a misunderstanding once, which caused us to avoid each other in church. One evening, someone called out from outside our house. “Hello! We come here in peace!” It was Jon. Those words thawed away the cold treatment we were showing each other previously. We were reconciled right there and then!

What a relief it was for the fearful disciples when their Risen Lord and Friend appeared to them and said “Peace be with you.” Just three days before that blessed day, these same disciples deserted Him. Shouldn’t they get a tongue-lashing? And yet, here was Jesus giving them peace, showing His wounds, breathing on them the Holy Spirit, and sending them as agents of His mercy.

The Risen Lord is also doing the same to us through Word and sacraments, as well as in the poor condition of the least, the lost, and the last in our communities.  Have we rejoiced and made others rejoice in Jesus’ triumph over sin and death? Have we believed and made others believe in His resurrection? Have we been receptive and made others receptive to His healing?

Prayer

Lord Jesus, thank You for Your Word today. Thank You for giving Your peace to our wearied and fearful hearts. May it continuously transform us so that we too may become instruments of Your healing love and mercy throughout the world. Jesus, King of Mercy, we trust in You. Amen.

Understanding Our Friend

   

The Resurrection of the Lord

09 April 2023

 

First Reading: Acts 10:34a, 37-43

Responsorial Psalm: Ps 118:1-2, 16-17, 22-23

Second Reading: Col 3:1-4 or 1 Cor 5:6b-8

Gospel: Jn 20:1-9

 

Reflection

By: Pietro S. Albano

 

For they did not yet understand the Scripture that he had to rise from the dead. (Jn 20:9).

Sometimes, it’s much easier to love a friend than to understand them. Mary Magdalene, Peter, and John all love their friend Jesus. Mary’s love stands out; she was there at the Cross on Good Friday. Three days later, she came to the tomb early in the morning, while it was still dark (Jn 20:1). However, their reaction when Jesus was nowhere to be found, showed their lack of understanding of Scripture. And if we think of the Scripture as pointing out to and finding its fulfilment in Jesus, then His friends lacked an understanding of Jesus Himself.

St. Bede once said, “Our Saviour revealed the glory of His resurrection to His disciples gradually and over time, also because it was such a great miracle that the weak hearts of mortals could not comprehend it all at once.” If we continue reading chapter 20 of this Gospel, Jesus revealed Himself to Mary Magdalene and commissioned her: Go instead to my brothers and tell them, ‘I am ascending to my Father and your Father, to my God and your God. (Jn 20:17). Having gained an understanding of this great mystery, Mary went to the apostles and relayed to them what Christ told her. Mary became apostola apostolorum (apostle to the apostles).

We too can be like the disciples who, at first, were unable to understand the Resurrection. Let’s allow the Risen Jesus to pour on us the Holy Spirit, so that like Peter, in today’s first reading, we can also boldly proclaim to the world: We are witnesses of all that Jesus did. (cf. Acts 10:39).

Prayer

Lord Jesus, thank You for Your Word today. Thank You for rising from the dead as You have promised. Send forth Your Spirit among us that we may gain a better understanding of and become courageous witnesses of Your Resurrection. Amen.

Christ is Risen!

 

 Easter Sunday of the Resurrection of the Lord

17 April 2022

 

First Reading: Acts 10:34a, 37-43

Responsorial Psalm: PS 118:1-2, 16-17, 22-23

Second Reading: COL 3:1-4 or 1 COR 5:6b-8

Gospel: JN 20:1-9

 

Reflection

By: Sem. Kenjie Viado

Grade 12, Our Lady of the Pillar Seminary, Diocese of Imus

Christ is risen, let us praise Him!

Today we celebrate the Easter of our Lord. Jesus rose from the dead, this resurrection is a sign of his insatiable love for us after he offered himself in suffering, pain, and death on the Cross.

As the Gospel says, the disciples of Jesus were surprised that they did not see the body of Jesus and they thought that Jesus was stolen from the tomb. Sometimes in our lives we experience that Jesus is already there but we still do not believe or trust. The resurrection of our Lord has crossed us so that we may live holy and virtuous lives. Jesus has self-sacrifice for us and this reminds us that he is the Way, the Truth and the Life. The challenge of the Gospel to us today is to keep Jesus alive and to continue to believe and trust in Him. We should keep this in mind as we celebrate the most wonderful and joyful celebration of Easter. 

May we never forget our duty in life as Catholics. We must follow the Lord and walk in His path, seeing the hope of His light and salvation, and the empty tomb that shows us hope with a path beyond, and beyond sin and death. Through Jesus, His loving sacrifice on the Cross and above all, His resurrection from the dead, showed us the path out of darkness into the light. May the joy of Our Risen Lord be with us always. May He grant us all to remain steadfast in the faith, to remain committed to Him, whatever challenges, trials, experiences, and temptations may be. May God bless us always, and may we all have a blessed celebration of Easter. Alleluia! Alleluia! Our Lord is Risen! Alleluia! Alleluia! Amen!

Prayer

Lord, Jesus, thank You for Your gift of Salvation through Your passion, death, and resurrection. As we celebrate Easter, in our rebirth with renewed faith and commitment to You and Your people.  May we bring joy, love, hope, and peace everywhere and to everyone we encounter. We ask this through Your Most Holy Name, Jesus, Amen.

 

Come Holy Spirit!

Pentecost Sunday

23 May 2021 

 

First Reading:  ACTS 2:1-11

Responsorial Psalm:  PS 104:1, 24, 29-30, 31, 34

Second Reading:  1 COR 12:3b-7, 12-13 or GAL 5:16-25

Gospel:  JN 20:19-23

 

Reflection

By: Benj Santiago

 

"Now the works of the flesh are obvious: immorality, impurity, lust, idolatry, sorcery, hatreds, rivalry, jealousy, outburst of fury, acts of selfishness, dissensions, factions, occasions of envy, drinking bouts, orgies, and the like"..."In contrast, the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, generosity, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control."

This Pentecost Sunday which is the Third Glorious Mystery of the Holy Rosary, we celebrate the Descent of the Holy Spirit upon the Apostles and other followers of Jesus Christ while they were in Jerusalem. "Pente" means "fifty" days after the celebration of Easter Sunday!

Jesus in this occasion shared to the believers, the difference between the works of the flesh versus the fruit of the Holy Spirit. I did a self check and found myself guilty in a lot of the "works of the flesh" as I try to do  my best to do the works of the "Spirit"! In the midst of what's happening all around us , it is so easy for me to fall into dissent, envy, hatred, and rivalry! Invoking the power of Holy Spirit has been a constant practice for me and the entire family. We pray to the Holy Spirit from simple request of a parking slot in a mall, to a more serious need like healing of a sick loved one. But there are also occasions we seem to forget to recognize the presence of the Holy Spirit in our daily life.

The "Spirit" is willing, the flesh is weak"! That's very real for me. The battle between the flesh and the Spirit is moment by moment. You and I are so blessed that we received the Holy Spirit in our Baptism. A promise He left His disciples before He was lifted up in heaven. Thus, we are all assured that He will not leave us alone in our daily battles. He will always be with us through the Holy Spirit!

 

Prayer

 

Heavenly Father, we thank You for sending us the Holy Spirit to comfort us, strengthen us and empower us in our daily battles. "Come Holy Spirit we need You! Come Holy Spirit we pray!"

 

 

 

Peace Be With You

Third Sunday of Easter

18 April 2021 

 

First Reading:  ACTS 3:13-15, 17-19

Responsorial Psalm:  PS 4:2, 4, 7-8, 9

Second Reading:  1 JN 2:1-5a

Gospel:  LK 24:35-48

 

Reflection

By: Fely C. Santiago

 

"Why are you troubled?"

 

God knows what we really need this time of Easter. It's amazing how words in the scriptures capture our attention. Even the disciples were still frightened themselves. Imagine losing their Lord and Teacher to death. They could not grasped why it had to happen. They did not yet understand that Jesus has to suffer, die, and will rise again. And in the midst of their anxiety, confusion, and doubts, God greets them. He also greets us "Peace be with you." I often feel like God really knows just what I need to hear and when. I don't know about you, but I'm yearning for more peace during this Easter season.

In this season of CoVid-19 pandemic (sorry if I have been reflecting on the pandemic again) especially here in the Philippines where positive cases continue to rise, our hospitals are filled to the capacity, our health workers are just so exhausted, we just need the greetings of God "Peace be with you." We really can't help but be afraid especially we see people already close to us getting afflicted and suffering from CoVid-19. This is for real.

Today, we really do not understand why it is happening. But just like Jesus who said to them, "These are my words that I spoke to you while I was still with you, that everything written about me in the law of Moses and in the prophets and psalms must be fulfilled."  Then He opened their minds to understand the scriptures. And He said to them, "Thus it is written that the Christ would suffer and rise from the dead  on the third day and that repentance, for the forgiveness  of sins, would be preached in His name to all the nations, beginning in Jerusalem. You are witnesses of these things."

 

Our mission continues to share the good news of Christ no matter where we are, what we are experiencing right now. We must continue to spread the good news of God's love. That He is present in our suffering because He suffered Himself.

Let me share the lyrics of this beautiful song because there are also words from the Lord that He will be ever with us.

I Am Ever With You

Fr. Arnel Aquino, SJ

Do not let your hearts be troubled

Do not stay afraid

It is really I whom you see

I offer you now my peace

I have waited for this moment

To be with you again

In my heart you'll remain

In your heart I'll stay

I am with you, till the end of your days

I am in you, have faith

That I hold you

Even when you let go

And I love you,

You must know. I am here. I am ever with you.

 

Do not let your hearts be troubled

Do not stay afraid

I'm beyond all anguish all death

I'm risen to life anew.

 

When you feel that you've been emptied

And can give no more

Know that I am your breath and I fill your soul.

I am with you, till the end of your days

I am in you, have faith

That I hold you

Even when you let go

And I love you.

You must know I am here. I am ever with you.

 

Prayer

 

Dear Jesus, many people are suffering, confused, afraid, worried, anxious right now,. Where are You Lord? Lord, we know that You are here with us in our suffering and pain. Please continue to strengthen us. Give us the grace of complete trust and confidence in You. Increase our hope that one day, all shall be well. All these I pray in the mighty Name of Jesus, Amen.

 

 

 

Stay Grateful!

Second Sunday of Easter

Sunday of Divine Mercy

11 April 2021 

 

First Reading:  ACTS 4:32-35

Responsorial Psalm:  PS 118:2-4, 13-15, 22-24

Second Reading:  1 JN 5:1-6

Gospel:  JN 20:19-31

 

Reflection

By: Fely C. Santiago

 

"Give thanks to the Lord for He is good, His love is everlasting."

 

At this time of the pandemic when people are losing their jobs, businesses are closing down, families are losing their loved ones to CoVid-19, there is just so much uncertainty and anxiety. How long will this pandemic last? How long, O Lord? This is the question of so many of us.

And it can be overwhelming. And today we are reminded to give thanks to the Lord for He is good, His love is everlasting in whatever circumstances we may have.

Can we pause for a while and be present for the moment? This is the Second Sunday of Easter and we should be thankful that we are still alive! Start writing down the things that you are thankful for and you will be surprised! Start it right now. Thank God for  a new life every morning, for the sunshine, for the rain, for the trees, for the flowers, the plants, the mountains, the sea, your eyes to see, your ears to hear, there is food on the table, you still have your feet to walk, you have friends, you can still meet people online, the gift of technology, you can connect and browse the internet, you have your phone, the comfort of your bed, the air-conditioner, the electric fan, your kitchen, your home, and on and on and on. How many were you able to list down?

 

Yes, we may be filled with dark clouds but the Lord is here. Let us keep the faith and hope in the Lord. Let us thank Him for His continued presence and unconditional love. We just have to believe that. The Lord is our only refuge at this time of the pandemic and for that we should already give thanks. We pray for the big things and forget to give thanks for the ordinary, small (and yet really not small) gifts. We strive for the grand spiritual adventure, which we haven't had, and neglect the many gifts from God that we do have. Let us be satisfied with the small measure of spiritual knowledge, experience, and love that has been given to us.

Give thanks to the Lord for He is everlasting!

Prayer

 

Lord Jesus for whatever life may bring I say THANK YOU! Give me the grace of a grateful heart all the time. Because when there is gratitude and humility, there is peace. Thank You for everything You have given me Lord including the gift of life that I sometimes take for granted. All this I pray in Jesus' Name. Amen.