An Easter message from Bishop Karen

Being struck down with Covid over Holy Week and Easter certainly was not in my plans. Sermons were written, arrangements made and then the two lines on the lateral flow test showed up. I am grateful to colleagues who stepped in, and for the ability to view so much creativity of worship online.

The last thing Mary expected to see on that first Easter morning was Jesus. Her plans were for anointing the body of her dead friend and requesting the stone be rolled to allow her into the tomb. Instead, she was called to turn around and to spread the news far and wide. Christ had risen. God’s plans turned things upside down that day as death was defeated, despair turned to hope and the possibilities of the impossible happening made the future bright.

So as we walk this Easter season as God’s people, we can do so with hope in our hearts. Praying earnestly for peace in Ukraine, calling for the just treatment of asylum seekers, seeking wisdom for the climate crisis and waiting expectantly for the arrival of our new Bishop, trusting in the God of surprises, and standing firm in faith when the unexpected happens.

Bishop Karen