EASTER DIGEST with Fr. PiusRalph EFFIONG, SMMM

SATURDAY OF THE SECOND WEEK OF EASTER 

Celebration: Saints Philip and James, Apostles (Feast)

Like Peter and Andrew, St Philip was from Bethsaida. He was crucified at Hierapolis in Phrygia where he had preached the Gospel. He introduced St. Bartholomew to Christ. Christ declared to Philip, "He that hath seen me, hath seen the Father... I am in the Father and the Father in me." (John 14:8-9). St James was a cousin of our Lord. He was called James the Less, to distinguish him from the other James. As Bishop of Jerusalem, he wrote one of the epistles of the New Testament. St James was thrown down from the terrace of the Temple and then stoned to death. The names of Philip and James are mentioned in the Roman Canon.

Table of the Word: 

First Reading: 1 Corinthians 15:1–8

Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 19:2–5

Gospel: John 14:6–14

Theme: ... if you ask anything in my name, I will do it.

Reflrction

Today, the Church celebrates the feast of two of the Twelve Apostles: Philip and James the Less, companions of Jesus and foundational witnesses to the Resurrection. Though they are often less highlighted than figures like Peter or John, their roles in spreading the Gospel were significant and edifying. 

A look from the Table of the Word, St. Paul gives a succinct summary of the Gospel: Christ died, was buried, rose on the third day, and appeared to many, including the apostles. This passage affirms the apostolic foundation of our faith. James is mentioned among the witnesses, highlighting his authority and leadership in the early Church, particularly in Jerusalem.(cf. 1 Corinthians 15:1–8)

The Gospel pericope on the other hand centers on a poignant interaction between Jesus and Philip. Philip, seeking assurance, says, “Lord, show us the Father, and that will be enough for us.” Jesus responds, “Whoever has seen me has seen the Father.” This exchange underlines a core Christian truth: Jesus fully reveals the Father. Philip’s question reflects a longing that lives in all of us, a desire to see God, to know His presence. Jesus answers that longing with Himself. He began by unveiling His personality as: the Way, the Truth and the Life and eneded with the assurance that if we ask of anything in His name it will be granted for He is with thebFather and the Father is with Him.(cf. John 14:6–14) 

However, on this great feast of saints Philip and James teach we are being reminded of two important truths: first, to seek God wholeheartedly like Philip did, and second, to live a life of integrity and witness like James. 

Finally, may we be inspired to renew our witness to Christ, bearing the Gospel with courage and love, just as these apostles did. Let us therefore continue  to cling on Jesus, if we fo so we will never miss step ordirection  for He is above all else. + May the Lord bless His Words in our heart both now and forever. Amen.

© The ARCHIVE 03052025