From the opening strains of the Easter Alleluia, the cathedral resounded with the joy and hope that the Resurrection brings. The Gospel reading, taken from John 20:1–9, recounted the discovery of the empty tomb by Mary Magdalene, followed by Peter and the beloved disciple. Though bewildered at first, the beloved disciple entered the tomb, saw the linen cloths lying there, and believed. It is this moment — the dawning realisation that death had been conquered — that lies at the very heart of the Easter mystery.
In his homily, Bishop Peter expressed heartfelt joy at seeing the cathedral so full on this most sacred of days. With a smile, he turned to the Cathedral Dean, Fr Alan Hodgson, and quipped that perhaps an extension to the cathedral might be needed to accommodate the ever-growing number of worshippers. Laughter and warmth filled the space, a testament to the spirit of unity and hope that Easter brings.
Following the homily, the faithful were invited to renew their baptismal promises. This powerful moment in the liturgy recalls the grace of our own baptism — the renunciation of sin and the profession of faith in the Triune God. With hands held high and voices united, the congregation reaffirmed their belief in the resurrection and the life to come.
Bishop Peter then made his way through the cathedral, joyfully sprinkling the assembly with the newly blessed Holy Water — a symbol of spiritual cleansing and renewal. It was a moving and tangible reminder of the new life we share in Christ.
The Easter Sunday Mass was a fitting and radiant conclusion to Holy Week, which had seen the cathedral and the diocese bustling with prayer, reflection, and sacred celebration. Now, as the tomb stands empty and the light of the Resurrection shines forth, we rejoice together.
Christ is risen indeed — Alleluia!
Happy Easter to all.
