Message from Fr. Rolando Cabrera

St. Anthony Catholic Parish

Dear Parish Family,

Today’s Gospel presents us with one of Jesus’ most powerful signs in the Gospel: the raising of Lazarus. In this moment, Jesus reveals not only His power over death, but also the depth of God’s compassion for His people. Standing before the tomb of His friend, Jesus weeps. These simple words remind us that our God is not distant from our suffering. He enters into it. He shares it. And ultimately, He transforms it.

When Jesus calls Lazarus out of the tomb, He proclaims a truth that stands at the heart of our faith: “I am the resurrection and the life; whoever believes in me, even if he dies, will live.” This is not only a promise for the end of time. It is also a promise for our lives today. Christ comes to call us out of whatever tombs may hold us captive fear, sin, discouragement, or hopelessness. His voice is always a voice of life.

Lent is a season in which the Lord stands before the tombs of our hearts and calls us by name. Through prayer, repentance, and acts of charity, He invites us to step out into the light. Like Lazarus, we may still carry the “burial cloths” of our weaknesses, but the community of faith helps us to be unbound and set free.

As we approach Holy Week, let us listen carefully for the voice of Christ. Let us allow Him to bring new life to those places with-in us that feel closed or lifeless. The same Lord who called Lazarus from the grave continues to speak today, offering us hope, renewal, and the promise of resurrection.

May these final days of Lent prepare our hearts to celebrate with joy the victory of life that we will soon proclaim at Easter.

May the Lord bless you and your families,

Fr. Rolando Cabrera