During Holy Week, we delve deep into the heart of our faith. We remember the passion, death, and resurrection of Christ – the Paschal Mystery. This sacred time reflects our spiritual journey and echoes the words of John 12:24: “Unless a grain of wheat falls into the ground and dies, it remains just a grain of wheat; but if it dies, it produces much fruit.”
As we participate in the liturgical rites of the Easter Triduum, let’s reflect on life’s trials – struggles, illness, even death. These aren’t just hardships. Through Christ’s passion, they take on a new, hopeful meaning. In union with his passion, we don’t just endure, we are transformed. Our challenges become gateways to freedom and joy, breaking the chains of self-centeredness and fear.
In this holy season, the sacraments of Reconciliation and the Eucharist are of paramount importance. They aren’t just rituals; they are encounters with Christ, who gave himself for us. It is in these acts that we meet him, share in his abandonment to the Father, and find our true liberation and joy. May this Holy Week be a journey of profound transformation in which we accept life’s trials as steps closer to Christ and discover a joyful freedom in His resurrection.
Fr. Lino Otero, L.C.
Originally from Nicaragua, my family moved to Miami, Florida when I was a teenager. Soon afterwards I experienced the call to serve God without reservations. Since then, I have had experience in hospital ministry, working as a middle school teacher, leading a parish school, organizing soccer tournaments for kids, starting a radio station, training priests in leadership formation, organizing a parish community from maintenance to mission, and much more. I love spiritual direction and preaching. Years of philosophy, psychology and theological training have enriched my personal life and have shaped my message of hope.