Living the Resurrection and Becoming Christ’s Witness – Building a Kingdom with Msgr. John Esseff

In this Third Sunday of Easter reflection, Msgr. John Esseff focuses on the Church’s journey from Easter to Pentecost, highlighting how the Acts of the Apostles and the Gospel readings reveal a community transformed by the resurrection. The early Church becomes a living witness to Christ, moving from fear and confusion to bold proclamation through the power of the Holy Spirit.

Msgr. Esseff connects this transformation to the lived experience of every baptized person. The suffering, confusion, and struggles found in daily life, especially among young people, are not separate from faith but part of the paschal mystery unfolding within them. Through Christ, suffering and loss can become a path to deeper union, as the resurrection life of Jesus takes root within the believer.

The reflection calls the Church today to rediscover its mission. True hope is found not in worldly systems or identities but in Jesus Christ alone. As the apostles were sent to preach repentance and forgiveness to all nations, so every Christian is called to witness through their life. Empowered by the Holy Spirit, the faithful become the hands and heart of Christ in the world, continuing his mission of salvation.

Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions:

How have I experienced the movement from fear to faith in my own life after encountering Christ?
Where do I see the paschal mystery unfolding in my personal suffering or struggles?
What am I placing my hope in, and does it truly lead me to Christ?
How is God calling me to be a witness to the resurrection in my daily life?
In what ways can I become the hands and heart of Christ for others?

Msgr. John A. Esseff is a Roman Catholic priest in the Diocese of Scranton. Msgr. Esseff served as a retreat director and confessor to St. Teresa of Calcutta. He continues to offer direction and retreats for the sisters of the Missionaries of Charity around the world. Msgr. Esseff encountered St. Padre Pio, who would become a spiritual father to him. He has lived in areas around the world, serving in the Pontifical missions, a Catholic organization established by Pope St. John Paul II to bring the Good News to the world, especially to the poor. He continues to serve as a retreat leader and director to bishops, priests, sisters, seminarians, and other religious leaders around the world.

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