Th-th-th-that's NOT all, folks!

One week ago, we were all rejoicing at the glory of Christ's resurrection.  We recalled His triumphal entry into Jerusalem.  We mourned as we remembered His cruel death.  We waited in silence, as we called to mind His time in the grave.  On Sunday, though, we were full of joy as we relived the discovery of an empty tomb.  There it is.  One more Easter in the books.  Let's move along and bide our time until Memorial Day.  Check off another holiday!

Not so fast!

In the Catholic Church, we celebrate a time known as the Octave of Easter.  Eight days of singing the Gloria! and letting forth a resounding Alleluia!  Today, on the eighth day, we celebrate the Feast of Divine Mercy.  How glorious it is to call to mind the great mercy of God, who sent His Son for our salvation.  Check off another holy day!

Not so fast!

This is just the beginning!  We also celebrate not just one day, but a season of fifty days of Easter!  From Easter Sunday, we spend the next 7 weeks delighting in the goodness of His life, which brings us life.  After 40 days of fasting, alms giving, and prayer, we take this period of time to express our thanks to God.  At the end of these fifty days, we will reach another wonderful time:  Pentecost.

Maybe it's a bit too soon to put away the pastel decorations and toss the Easter lily.

The Lord is risen.  He is risen indeed!  Alleluia!