Weekly Update | April 7, 2024

Alleluia, Christ is Risen! The Lord is Risen Indeed, Alleluia.

Happy Easter, dear people of St. John’s Cathedral. After beautiful and meditative services during Holy Week, our Easter Vigil and Easter were sheer joy. The joy of sheer disbelief that the crucified one is no longer in the tomb, but risen with God. The joy of knowing that Jesus has gone ahead of us, and with us in Christ forevermore. The joy of knowing that nothing can separate us from the love of God, not even death on a cross.

This Easter, family and friends gathered in joyful celebration with children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. We baptized nine new members into the body of Christ at St. John’s during the Easter Vigil service; the Rev. Mel Soriano’s first baptisms as a newly ordained priest. On Easter morning, we rejoiced with glorious music offered by our gifted choir, under the direction of Dr. Christopher Gravis, with Dr. Zachery Neufeld on the organ, with brass and timpani funded by a special Easter gift to Cathedral Arts. We welcomed Bishop John Harvey Taylor on Easter, who continues to inspire and bless us, and the Cathedral was adorned with gorgeous flowers designed by Martha Ree and Velma Ford.

I can hardly give enough thanks to everyone who gave graciously of their time, talents and support, especially, the Altar Guild, Acolytes, Lectors, Ushers, USC Alumni and friends, Easter Bunny, and Cathedral staff, Wardens and Vestry who make all things possible. Please help me give our heartfelt gratitude to these faithful and beloved souls.

May we encounter the Risen One among us through this Easter Season, and may we give thanks and sing glory to God.

With love and blessings,

Anne+

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