Inside ML

Light and darkness are deep symbolic images. Our understanding of the paschal mystery, our celebration of the triumph of life over sin and death, is reflected throughout our rituals by images of darkness and light. In the Exsultet of the great Vigil of Easter we sing over and over, “This is the night!” for that night is the vessel in which is held the light no darkness can overpower. In that dark of that night the one great light is shared by many, a light divided but undimmed and entrusted to the care of a people broken, restored, forgiven and renewed.

I have good reason to reflect on darkness and light. As I write this, it is a very hot and dark August night in the blackout of 2003. A power failure plunged much of the northeast into sudden darkness. I live in the New York metropolitan area; there was probably not a person among us here who did not immediately fear the worst, another terrorist attack. Living in the shadow of that is another deeper, blacker kind of darkness. As the tunnels, bridges and other means of transportation shut down and cell phones failed, we all suffered something of a collective flashback. But then the positive memories began to surface as people began to pull together, lighting candles, singing songs, sharing food, water or just a funny story to pass the time. We remember that out of the darkness of September 11, 2001, we emerged a different people, especially in the face of adversity. We became the light out of that horrible darkness.

Some of the powerful imagery of light is revealed in this year’s Visual Arts Awards winners in the stained glass category. Their inspired work molds light into an invitation to encounter the holy. Certainly Ricky Manalo and Gail Morris reflect some of that light also as they share their insights on ways to approach the Triduum. Their care and concern for those most holy days is a strong reminder of the primacy of liturgy and the honor it commands. Kevin Yell opens our eyes to some of the light that has penetrated the darkness surrounding the issues of environment and art over these postconciliar years. In this issue we welcome Bruce Janiga in the new Scripture column, At the Table of the Word. His love of Scripture shines forth clearly in his words.

As we continue to struggle to find our way through the dark moments of this life, we can be certain that the God who calls us out of darkness will continue to bless our journey with good companions like these to light our way. So in every season we should sing, “Thanks be to God, Alleluia, Alleluia!” ML

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