Feast of the Transfiguration

My dear Friends in Christ,

Today we celebrate the Feast of the Transfiguration, a momentous event in the life of Jesus. Jesus takes Peter, James, and John up to Mount Tabor and His appearance transforms before their very eyes. This is a significant event which holds theological symbolism, offering us a glimpse of the glory of heaven and the ultimate encounter with God Himself. As Jesus prayed on the mountain, His countenance changed, and His face shone like the sun, while His garments became dazzlingly white. This radiant transformation unveiled His true identity as the Son of God, emphasizing His dual nature as both fully human and fully divine. He is seen conversing with Moses and Elijah in fulfillment of the Law and Prophets in Christ. This symbolizes the connection of the past to the present and pointing to the future. Peter, James, and John were privileged witnesses of the Transfiguration. Their presence illustrates the importance of authentic and close relationships with Christ. They were the ones chosen to witness this event where Jesus reveals the depth of His divine mystery and solidifies their faith to meet the challenges of the future. Pope Francis reflects on the Feast of the Transfiguration by reminding us that “we are called to experience being in touch with Christ so that, enlightened by His light, we might bear it and make it shine everywhere like tiny lamps of the Gospel that bear a little bit of love and hope.” May Christ’s light continue to shine on us!

May God bless you all,

Father John