Wednesday, February 7, 2007

Rejoice

The title, "Exultet," is the Latin word for "rejoice." The reference is to the first word of the ancient hymn that the Church uses to open the solemn celbration of the Easter Vigil Mass throughout the world.

"Rejoice heavenly powers! Sing choirs of angels!
Exult, all creation around God's throne!
Jesus Christ, our King is risen!
Sound the trumpet of salvation!

Rejoice, O earth, in shining splendor,
radiant in the brightness of your King!
Christ has conquered! Glory fills you!
Darkness vanishes forever!..."

Christ's death on a cross paid our ransom from sin, and His resurrection destroys the power of death. He has risen; He shall die no more! And we shall rise with Him! We have much to rejoice about, alleluia!

It is very important that this is the starting point for this forum. I plan on discussing many things here: current events, history, theology, literature and the arts, science, and anything else that seems important. The fact is that much of it is bad news, and I would be irresponsible to pretend that there is not darkness all around us. However, we must never lose hope that the victory is already won, and our task is to remain faithful to Christ, who is the way, the truth and the life.

All are welcome to join the discussion. I hope that our conversations will be fruitful.