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As we celebrate the Fifth Sunday of Easter, the Church invites us deeper into the joy of the Resurrection and the hope of eternal life. The liturgy continues to unfold the Paschal Mystery, reminding us that Christ’s victory over death opens the way to the Father’s house.
First Reading: Acts 6:1-7
The early Christian community faces a practical challenge: the Hellenist widows feel neglected in the daily distribution of food. The Apostles respond wisely by appointing seven Spirit-filled men (including Stephen and Philip) to serve the practical needs of the community, freeing themselves for prayer and the ministry of the word. This passage highlights the importance of both charity and ordered ministry in the Church. Growth follows when the community addresses internal needs with wisdom and the Holy Spirit. The word of God continues to spread, even drawing in many priests.
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 33:1-2, 4-5, 18-19
We sing, “Lord, let your mercy be on us, as we place our trust in you.” This psalm calls the just to praise the Lord, whose word is upright and whose kindness fills the earth. God’s eyes are on those who fear Him and hope in His mercy, delivering them from death and preserving them in famine. It echoes the trust Jesus calls for in the Gospel.
Second Reading: 1 Peter 2:4-9
St. Peter describes Christ as the “living stone,” rejected by humans but chosen and precious to God. We, too, are called to be “living stones” built into a spiritual house—a holy priesthood offering spiritual sacrifices through Jesus. We are “a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation,” called out of darkness into God’s wonderful light to proclaim His praises. This reminds us of our dignity and mission as baptized Christians: to live as God’s own people in a world that may reject the cornerstone.
Gospel: John 14:1-12
In the farewell discourse, Jesus comforts His anxious disciples: “Do not let your hearts be troubled. You have faith in God; have faith also in me.” He promises, “In my Father’s house there are many dwelling places,” and assures them He goes to prepare a place for them and will return to take them to Himself. When Thomas asks about the way, Jesus declares the famous words: “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” Seeing Jesus means seeing the Father; believing in Him empowers believers to do even greater works.
This Gospel offers profound reassurance amid uncertainty. Jesus does not abandon us; He prepares our eternal home and is Himself the path to the Father. In Him we find truth that endures and life that conquers death.
Connecting the Readings
These readings weave together themes of service, identity, and hope. The early Church balances prayer, preaching, and charitable service (Acts). We are built on Christ the cornerstone into a living temple (1 Peter), and Jesus Himself is the way to the many rooms in the Father’s house (John). As Easter people, we are called to trust, serve, and proclaim God’s light even when challenges arise.
May: The Month of Mary
This reflection falls in the beautiful month of May, traditionally dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary, the Mother of God and our Mother. Throughout history, the Church has honored Mary in May with special devotions, May crownings (May Crowning), processions, and floral tributes. Many parishes and dioceses organize Rosary rallies and Marian coronations during this time, gathering the faithful publicly to pray the Rosary for peace, conversion, and the needs of the world. These events echo Our Lady’s call at Fatima and invite us to draw closer to Jesus through His Mother.
As living stones and a royal priesthood, let us turn to Mary, Queen of May and Help of Christians, asking her intercession. May she help us trust in Jesus—the Way, the Truth, and the Life—so that our hearts remain untroubled and we bear fruit for the Kingdom.
Come, Holy Spirit, and through the intercession of Mary, renew the face of the earth! Amen.
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