People often stop identifying as Christian ‘because of Christians’ - because of what is missing in their lives. Young people especially and people who are marginalised can sniff out hypocrisy when others are not serious about what  Jesus took seriously, e.g., embracing the gospel of inclusion and nonviolence, of compassionate love and acceptance; of not stepping up to the mark when a genocide is occurring before our eyes; when religious freedom is demanded along with the right to discriminate; when fear drives us rather than loving responses; when we still proclaim a God in our own image who is not about spacious mercy and kindness but vengeance.

Easter is a time for hope, reflection and renewal. At the Edmund Rice Centre we acknowledge the injustice, suffering and despair faced by so many in the world. We wish for peace and hope for all at this time of the year, acknowledging the many faith traditions who see this as a period of reflection, renewal, resurrection and rebirth. For those travelling, we wish you safe travels and a restful break.