EASTER DIGEST with Fr. PiusRalph EFFIONG, SMMM

WEDNESDAY IN THE SECOND WEEK OF EASTER 

Table of the Word: 

First Reading: Acts 5:17–26

Gospel: John 3:16–21

Theme: The Light has come.

Reflection:

The darkest of darkness is being dispelled by the beam of light. Wherever darkness sets in, fear abounds; but with light there is always courage. These great virtue "courage" can be vividly seen in today's Table of the Word which highlighted the unstoppable power of the Gospel and God’s enduring love for humanity. 

In the First Reading,  the apostles are imprisoned for proclaiming the Good News, yet God miraculously frees them through an angel, commanding them to continue preaching. This shows that no earthly force can contain the message of Christ when it is carried with faith and courage brought about by the light of the risen Lord.  (cf. Acts 5:17–26),

The Gospel pericope on the other way round gives one of the most powerful affirmations of God's love upon humanity: "For God so loved the world that He gave His only Son, so that everyone who believes in Him might not perish but might have eternal life." (John 3:16).

This verse underscores the foundation of Christian faith, that is salvation through Jesus. Yet, the passage also speaks of light and darkness, calling us to step into the light of truth and live in accordance with God's will.

Finally, beloved in Christ, we are being invited into this wonderful light which represents Christ our Lord and Redeemer; as we continue our earthly pilgrimage as Easter people. 

+ May the Lord bless His wonderful Words in our heart with now and forever. Amen.

© The ARCHIVE 30042025

EASTER DIGEST with Fr. PiusRalph EFFIONG, SMMM

TUESDAY OF THE SECOND WEEK OF EASTER 

Table of the Word: 

First Reading: Acts 4:32-37 

Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 93:1AB, 1CD-2, 5 

Gospel: John 3:7B-15 

Theme: Talent for common good.

Reflection

It was one of my brother priests and friend - Fr. Andy Paulinus who often in a bit to promote peaceful coexistence in the community as well as community spirit rooted in the life of early Christians that he called for: "Talent for common good."  This theory sets our minds aflame on the need to bring into a basket all thatvGod has blessed us with for the growth of one another and edification of God's kingdom. 

It is in the light of this, that the Church in her readings this morning called on us to exhibit the virtues of unity and generosity as in the Early Church.

In the first reading, we encounter a profound image of Christian community: “The community of believers was of one heart and mind, and no one claimed that any of his possessions was his own, but they had everything in common” (Acts 4:32). This radical sharing emerges not from coercion but from the transforming power of the Resurrection. Because the apostles “bore witness to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus” with “great power,” the community responded in generous unity (Acts 4:33). Their example challenges us: does our faith produce the same willingness to place others’ needs before our own, to sell what we have and place the proceeds “at the feet of the apostles” so that no one among us is in need (Acts 4:34-35)

Following the gospel pericope, Jesus tells Nicodemus, “You must be born from above” (John 3:7). He likens the Spirit to the wind: unseen, unpredictable, yet unmistakably powerful in its effects (John 3:8). To be “born from above” is to experience a new creation, a mew way of life as found in the life of the early Christians; that is one who empowers us to live in generous community and to testify to the risen Lord. Just as Moses lifted up the serpent in the desert, so must the Son of Man be lifted up, “so that everyone who believes in him may have eternal life” (John 3:14-15). Our sharing of goods in love, our trust in God’s reign, and our witness to Christ’s victory over death flow from this new birth in the Spirit.

Finally, to live out today's gospel values let us ne reminded thus: 

In Prayer: Ask the Holy Spirit to reveal areas where you cling too tightly to material security, and to grant you the generosity of heart witnessed in Acts.

In Action: Identify one possession or habit you can relinquish “for the common good,” and share it with someone in need.

In Witness: Let your life testify to the resurrection—not only by words, but by the unity and love you foster in your family, parish, and neighborhood.

May this Easter season deepen our experience of being born from above, so that, like the first Christians, we may live in one heart and mind, and bear powerful witness to the risen Lord.

+ May the Lord bless His Words in our hearts both now and forevermore.  Amen.

© The ARCHIVE 29042025

EASTER DIGEST with Fr. PiusRalph EFFIONG, SMMM

MONDAY OF THE SECOND WEEK OF EASTER

Table of the Word:

First Reading: Acts 4:23-31

Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 2:1-3, 4-7a, 7b-9

Gospel: John 3:1-8

Theme: The newness in Christ.

Reflection:

Today’s readings beautifully continue the theme of new life in the Spirit that we celebrated at Easter.

In the First Reading, Peter and John, after being threatened for speaking about Jesus, return to their community. Rather than shrinking in fear, they pray for boldness to continue proclaiming the Gospel. And God responds powerfully:  "the place where they were gathered shook," and they were all filled with the Holy Spirit. (cf. Acts 4:23-31), 

Their prayer was not for escape but for courage. How often do we, when faced with opposition or fear, pray for safety rather than strength? Today, we are reminded that the early Church thrived not because they were free of troubles, but because they were filled with the Spirit who gave them boldness and peace even amidst trials.

In the Gospel pericope Evangelist John gives an account of how Jesus speaks with Nicodemus, a Pharisee seeking truth. Jesus tells him: "Amen, amen, I say to you, no one can see the Kingdom of God without being born from above." Nicodemus struggles to understand, how can someone be born again?  (cf. John 3:1-8), 

Jesus is pointing to a spiritual rebirth:  being "born of water and Spirit." Just as natural birth brings us into physical life, rebirth in the Spirit brings us into eternal life, a life animated not by fear, but by faith, hope, and love. This therefore reminded us of the three sacraments of initiation: Baptism, Holy Eucharist and Confirmation. Through these Divine channels by the Church we have regained the lost grace (original) which we lost through our first parents - Adam and Eve (cf. Genesis 3:1ff.)

Therefore, through God's gratuitousnes for humanity that He sent His only begotten  Son to bridge the gap, to reconcile humanity with Divinity and to restore man to its original state (cf. John 3:16).

And St. Paul on the other hand in his epistle to the Corinthians' Church says: "If anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has passed away, behold, the new has come." (2 Corinthians 5:17). To buttress this, he addressed the Roman Church that when we are being led by the Spirit, we are true sons and daughters of God (cf. Romans 8:14-17).

Finally, let is be ever conscious of our new lives in Jesus through our rebirth in Christ. It is in doing this that we will certainly remain: "an Easter people."

+ May the Lord bless His words in our hearts now and always. Amen

© The ARCHIVE 28042025

 

EASTER DIGEST with Fr. PiusRalph EFFIONG, SMMM

Gospel Reading: Mark 16:9-15

> “Go into the whole world and proclaim the Gospel to every creature.” (Mark 16:15)

Reflection:

On this final day of the Easter Octave, we are reminded of the mission that flows from the Resurrection. Jesus, having conquered death, now sends His disciples—and us—out into the world. But notice how this moment follows confusion, doubt, and disbelief. The disciples struggled to believe the testimony of others. And yet, Jesus meets them where they are, gently rebukes their unbelief, and still entrusts them with the most important mission: to proclaim the Good News to all creation.

This is our call, too. Even when we feel unworthy, uncertain, or discouraged, the Risen Christ commissions us. He doesn’t wait for perfect messengers—He empowers imperfect hearts.

As we close the Easter Octave, let’s renew our joy and commitment to be witnesses of the Resurrection—not just in words, but in the way we live, love, and serve.

EASTER DIGEST with Fr. PiusRalph EFFIONG, SMMM

FRIDAY OF THE EASTER OCTAVE 

Table of the Word:  

First Reading:  Acts of the Apostles 4:1-12

Gospel: Gospel of John 21:1-14

Theme: Cast the net...

Reflection:

The Easter Octave continues to flood us with the joy of the Resurrection. In today’s first reading (Acts 4:1-12), Peter boldly proclaims before the authorities that salvation is found in no one else but Jesus Christ, the one they crucified and whom God raised from the dead. The same Peter who once denied Jesus is now filled with the Holy Spirit, standing unafraid to witness to the power of Christ. His transformation is a testimony to what the Resurrection can do in the life of someone open to grace.

The Gospel gives us a tender image of the Risen Lord appearing to His disciples by the Sea of Tiberias. They are back to fishing, perhaps unsure of what comes next. Yet it is in this ordinary setting that Jesus shows up and guidies them to abundance after a fruitless night and then serving them breakfast. This passage reminds us that the Risen Jesus meets us in the ordinary moments, especially when we feel lost or uncertain (cf. John 21:1-14)

In this Easter season, we are invited to recognize the Risen Christ in our daily lives, to listen for His voice that gently redirects our efforts, and to share boldly: like Peter, that Jesus is truly alive. May we have the courage to witness and the humility to let Jesus feed and guide us.

May the good Lord who directed us to cast the net grant us listening ear to the promptings of the Spirit. 

+ May the Lord bless His Words in our hearts. Amen

© The ARCHIVE 25042025

EASTER DIGEST with Fr. PiusRalph EFFIONG, SMMM

THURSDAY OF THE EASTER OCTAVE

Table of the Word:

First Reading: Acts 3:11-26

Gospel: Luke 24:35-48

Theme: Peace be with you!

Reflection:

In today's Gospel, we find the disciples still reflecting on the astonishing news of the Resurrection. As they recount the story of Jesus appearing to the two on the road to Emmaus, Jesus suddenly stands among them, offering peace and showing them His hands and feet. He ate with them to assure them He is truly alive and not a ghost, but risen in the flesh.

This moment is profound. Even in their joy, the disciples were doubtful. That word captures the mix of awe, hope, and fear they must have felt. But Jesus doesn’t scold their hesitation. Instead, He patiently reveals Himself, invites them to touch His wounds, and eats with them. Then He opens their minds to understand the Scriptures.

This is what Easter is all about, Jesus meeting us in our confusion, fear, and doubts, and offering us peace. He doesn’t demand perfect faith before revealing Himself. He comes into our locked rooms, our trembling hearts, and gently says, "Peace be with you."

Peter echoes this in Acts when he tells the people that though they acted in ignorance, God's plan still unfolded. He calls them to repent and turn back so their sins may be wiped away.

Today, we are invited to let the Resurrection move us to peace, repentance, and deeper understanding. Jesus meets us where we are, but He always invites us to more, more faith, more peace, more life. 

Beloved in Christ Jesus, I pray that the peace of Christ may find its place in our heart this moment and beyond. 

+May the Lord bless His Words in our hearts. Amen

© The ARCHIVE 24042025

EASTER DIGEST with Fr. PiusRalph EFFIONG, SMMM

WEDNESDAY OF THE EASTER OCTAVE

First Reading: Acts 3:1–10

Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 105:1–2, 3–4, 6–7, 8–9

Gospel: Luke 24:13–35

Theme: Stay with us on our journey. 

Reflection:

Today’s Gospel recounts the familiar and touching story of the Road to Emmaus. Two disciples, downcast and confused after Jesus’ crucifixion, are walking away from Jerusalem, trying to make sense of everything that had happened. They are joined by a mysterious stranger who walks with them, listens patiently, and then opens the Scriptures to help them understand. Only when He breaks bread with them do they realize: it is Jesus.

This moment teaches us something profound about how Jesus reveals Himself from the table of the Word and at the Breaking of the Bread, which mirrors the structure of the Mass. Often, like the disciples, we don’t immediately recognize Jesus walking beside us in life, especially when we’re discouraged or full of questions. But He is there, listening, teaching, and gently guiding us toward deeper faith.

In the first reading, we see the fruit of resurrection faith: Peter and John, filled with the Holy Spirit, heal a crippled man in Jesus’ name. Where once they were afraid, they now boldly proclaim Christ’s power and glory.

This Easter season reminds us that resurrection isn't just a past event, but a present and personal one. Christ walks with us, heals us, and sends us to be His witnesses. Our hearts, like those of the disciples, can still burn within us when we encounter Him. 

Finally, may the good Lord whom we encounter at the Table of the Word and at the breaking of the Bread stay with us always. +May the Lord bless His Words in our hearts. Amen

© The ARCHIVE 23042025

EASTER DIGEST with Fr. PiusRalph EFFIONG, SMMM .

TUESDAY OF THE EASTER OCTAVE

Table of the Word

First Reading: Acts 2:36-41

Gospel: John 20:11-18

Theme: Jesus, crucified and raised, is both Lord and Messiah.

Reflection:

On this Tuesday of the Easter Octave, we accompany Mary Magdalene outside the empty tomb where folded napkin was the only thing to be seen, tears still fresh, grief: real, deep, and raw. At this point Mary came looking for the body of Jesus, clinging to the only thing she thinks was the left over of his memory. But the Risen Lord meets her in the midst of her sorrow. He gently calls her by name: "Mary." And in that moment, everything changes. She recognizes Him, not just by sight, but by the voice that knows her intimately.

Mary’s experience mirrors our own spiritual journey. There are times when we seek Jesus but fail to recognize Him. We get caught up in our grief, confusion, or expectations. Yet, Jesus patiently waits and calls us by name, just as He did with Mary. The resurrection isn't just a historical event; it's an ongoing invitation to encounter the living Christ personally.

Meanwhile, in Acts, Peter's words pierce the hearts of his listeners. His message is clear and bold: Jesus, crucified and raised, is both Lord and Messiah. The people are cut to the heart and ask, "What are we to do?" This is the Easter question: what do we do now that we know Jesus is risen?

Peter's answer is also ours: "Repent and be baptized... and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit." Easter calls us not just to celebrate, but to respond - to live differently because Jesus lives. As we keep gpong with the joy of Easter, may we never forget that God's hand is in every every event of our lives. 

+ May the Lord bless His Words in our hearts. Amen.

© The ARCHIVE  22042025

EASTER DIGEST with Fr. PiusRalph EFFIONG, SMMM

MONDAY OF THE EASTER OCTAVE

Table of the Word:

First Reading: Acts 2:14, 22–33

Gospel: Matthew 28:8–15

Theme: Go and tell my brothers.

Reflection:

The joy of Easter continues to echo through the readings, and today we are drawn into the awe and astonishment of those first moments after the Resurrection.

In Matthew's Gospel, the women leave the empty tomb with a mix of fear and great joy. That emotional tension is deeply human - fear of the unknown, but also the joy of encountering the risen Lord. And Jesus meets them in that exact place; on the road, in the middle of their uncertainty—and greets them with one word: “Rejoice!” And this followed with an instruction and directive or command:  “Do not be afraid,” He says, “Go tell my brothers.”

This moment reminds us that resurrection is not just an event; it is a transformation. Jesus is alive, and now everything changes. We are invited to carry that joy, not as a fleeting emotion, but as a calling.

In Acts, Peter boldly proclaims the truth of the Resurrection to the crowd. The man who once denied Jesus now speaks with clarity and courage. The Holy Spirit has filled him with resurrection power. That’s what Easter does—it changes fear into proclamation, shame into boldness, and sorrow into joy.

Today, we are invited to live like those women, like Peter - carrying the news of the Resurrection in our hearts and through our lives. Even in uncertainty, even in a world that often prefers the safety of the tomb over the mystery of new life, for we are Easter people and Alleluia is our song as St. Augustine rightly said. 

+ May the Lord bless His Words in our hearts both now and forevermore. Amen.

© ARCHIVE 21042025

Commentary on SPY WEDNESDAY with Fr. PiusRalph EFFIONG, SMMM

COMMENTARY  ON SPY WEDNESDAY

THEME: Betrayal and Faith

Table of the Word: Matthew 26:14-16, Mark 14:10-11, Luke 22

In Christianity, Holy Wednesday commemorates the Bargain of Judas as a clandestine spy among the disciples. It is also called Spy Wednesday, or Good Wednesday (in Western Christianity),  and Great and Holy Wednesday (in Eastern Christianity). (cf. https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Holy_Wednesday)

Spy Wednesday on the other note, is the Wednesday of Holy Week in the Christian calendar, observed on the Wednesday before Easter Sunday.

Significantly, on this day, Judas Iscariot is said to have conspired with the chief priests to betray Jesus for 30 pieces of silver, as recorded in the New Testament account (cf. Matthew 26:14-16, Mark 14:10-11, Luke 22).

However, some Christian denominations observe Spy Wednesday with special services, prayers, or reflections on the betrayal of Jesus and the significance of loyalty, forgiveness, and redemption. In the present time, some local churches opt for the celebration of Chrism Mass (Mass for blessing of Oils and renewal of priestly commitment or vows)

Notably, tthis day holds deep spiritual and symbolic meaning as it marks the beginning of the Christ’s passion - a journey of suffering, sacrifice, and redemption of human race. A event which commemorates the reconciliation of humanity with divinity after the great fall (cf. Genesis 3:1ff.)

According to the synoptic Gospels, it was on this day that Judas went to the chief priests and agreed to hand Jesus over to them for thirty pieces of silver. His betrayal was not just a personal failing but a moment that set in motion the events leading to Jesus’ crucifixion. The quiet and calculated nature of Judas' actions earned this day the name "Spy Wednesday," emphasizing the secrecy and treachery of his betrayal.

Christians reflect on this day with solemnity. It serves as a reminder of the darkness that can reside within the human heart and the consequences of choosing personal gain over loyalty and love. It also challenges believers to examine their own lives, asking whether their actions reflect faithfulness to God or selfish desires.

Spy Wednesday is often observed through church services, readings from Scripture, and moments of silence or prayer. Some traditions even include processions or reenactments of Judas’ betrayal to help the faithful enter more deeply into the story of Christ’s Passion.

In essence, Spy Wednesday is not just about remembering Judas' betrayal, but about recognizing the human capacity for weakness and the ever-present opportunity for repentance and grace. As Holy Week progresses toward Good Friday and Easter Sunday, Spy Wednesday invites us into a deeper understanding of Jesus’ love and sacrifice - even in the face of betrayal.

Beloved in Christ, I wish to draw the curtain of this commentary close with the event in Shakespeare’s Julius Caesar. In this classic the phrase “Even you, Brutus?” captured my feelings which expresses the deep shock and heartbreak of betrayal by a trusted friend. This mirrors the emotional and spiritual weight of Spy Wednesday, when Judas Iscariot, one of Jesus’ closest disciples, secretly agrees to betray Him. Just as Caesar is stunned that Brutus, his ally, would turn against him, Jesus faces the pain of being betrayed not by a stranger, but by someone He called friend. Both moments reveal how betrayal cuts deepest when it comes from those we trust most. Spy Wednesday invites us to reflect on our own loyalties and challenges us to remain faithful, even when it’s difficult. Peace be with you!