EASTER DIGEST with Fr. PiusRalph EFFIONG, SMMM

THURSDAY OF THE SEVENTH WEEK IN EASTERTIDE 

Celebration of the day: St. Boniface, Bishop and Martyr (673-754) 

St. Boniface, a Benedictine monk, was born in England. He preached in Germany and later was consecrated its first bishop. He organised the church in this area. he was martyred while preaching among the Frisians.

Table of the Word:

First Reading:  Acts 22:30; 23:6–11

Gospel: John 17:20–26

Theme: : ...that they may all be one.

Reflection 

In today’s Gospel, we continue to listen to Jesus’ high priestly prayer. His words express a deep longing: “that they may all be one.” Jesus prays not only for His disciples but for all who will believe in Him through their word.(cf.John 17:20–26)

His desire is unified community, a profound communion grounded in love, truth, and the divine indwelling of Father, Son, and Spirit.

This unity isn’t merely organizational or surface-level harmony; it is spiritual, mirroring the perfect unity of the Trinity. It's a call to be one in love, in mission, and in witness to the world, so that the world may believe.

On the other hand we see Paul presenting his defence still in the bit to create a unified community between the Pharisees and the Sadducees (cf. Acts 22:30; 23:6–11) 

However, having realised that there is no unity among his accusers  Pharisees and Sadducees , he (Paul) strategically emphasizes their difference in belief about the resurrection. In the midst of turmoil and persecution, Jesus appears to Paul in a vision, saying, “Take courage.” This reassurance affirms that even in conflict, division, or danger, God’s mission continues,  and His presence remains steadfast.

This message resonates strongly with the life of St. Boniface, whose memorial we celebrate today. Boniface, a missionary bishop and martyr, laboured tirelessly to bring unity and orthodoxy to the Church in the Germanic lands. He faced opposition, misunderstanding, and eventually martyrdom, yet he remained steadfast in the mission Christ gave him. His life reflects today’s readings: courage amid adversity, a heart for unity, and faith rooted in God’s presence.

Finally, beloved on Christ amidst our tribulations and all sorts of challenges God whispers to us saying:  “Take courage.” as He encouraged St. Paul in in the course of defence of the faith. 

Let us therefore trust in Him and  forge ahead as a "unified community" for His hands are ever ready to hold us lest we fall. + May the Lord bless His words in our hearts both now and forevermore. Amen 

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