Fr Ebuka Umekachikelu, MSP - Homily for Easter Sunday - April 21, 2019

This remains a point where Christianity differs radically from other faiths. The author and finisher of our faith our Lord Jesus was not just a great moral teacher, a guru but a savior. One who has come to redeem mankind and set him free from the power of death. His resurrection from the dead is the definitive proof, and gives eternal credence to his life and works.  He remains the surest guide to eternal life.  This is why scripture tells us thatthere is no name under the heavens by which we are saved except by the name of Jesus.

Lord I believe in what you have done for me.  You have taken away my fear of damnation, in you I have victory, in you I find life you are my only and sure hope. 

Fr Ebuka Umekachikelu, MSP - Homily Holy Saturday, April 20, 2019

The ceremony of light that is celebrated on this night’s liturgy shows how the whole world was in darkness until Christ came as light to illumine our path. He has turned our darkness of sin and despair into the light of hope of salvation and glory.  The exultet that is sung during this liturgy tells us about the significance of this night ‘ the power of this holy night dispels all evil, washes guilt away, restores lost innocence, brings mourners joy, it cast out hatred brings us peace and humbles earthly pride. This is the Passover that we celebrate this night, our new life and our joy.

Lord as we celebrate this feast of light, inflame  our hearts again with the Love of what you command, that we may be worthy to inherit what you have wrought for us through the blood that your son has shed for us on the tree. Amen.

Fr Ebuka Umekachikelu, MSP - Homily Good Friday, April 19, 2019

We commemorate the supreme sacrifice that Christ paid for our liberation. The words of Hosea comes to pass ‘he will heal us, he will bind our wounds… on the third day he will raise us up to live in his presence (6:1-2) we grieve over our failure to yield ourselves to this new freedom and re-commit ourselves to surrender wholly to him, so that he would not have paid this costly price in vain for us.

Father, do not treat us as we truly deserve. We are sorry especially for the ingratitude that takes for granted the price your son paid for our redemption. May we find strength daily in the cross to return to you.  Look on the merits of your son’s death and have pity on us as we continue to plead his blood for our sins. We ask this through Christ our lord