Bishop da Cunha issues Easter message, holding special TV mass Sunday

FALL RIVER — Bishop Edgar M. da Cunha, S.D.V., has issued his annual Easter Message to Catholics throughout the Fall River Diocese, which comprises Southeastern Massachusetts, Cape Cod and the Islands.

“Dear Brother and Sisters,”

“I recognize, as you do, that we are facing the most challenging time we have ever seen with this pandemic of the coronavirus. Because of it, we will have the most unusual Easter we have ever seen, without being able to go to church, to participate in the Mass, to receiving the sacraments and celebrate the joy that Easter brings.”

“This year, we are left with our faith and our hope for better days soon. We have gone through a real Lent of tremendous sacrifice, but we cannot lose faith or hope knowing that this crisis will pass. When it is over, we can rebuild our world and our lives. Counting on God’s help and with strong faith, we will be better people and build a better world.”

“Blessings on you and your family, and may we experience the peace of the risen Christ in our hearts.”

“My prayers for best wishes for a blessed Easter to all of you.”

Bishop da Cunha will celebrate the Fall River Diocesan Television Mass on Easter Sunday, April 12 from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and will air on WLNE-TV, Channel 6.

“With the suspension of public Masses amid this coronavirus pandemic, our diocesan Television Mass provides a critical service in bringing the Word of God and the prayers of the Mass to the Catholic faithful throughout the Fall River Diocese and beyond, said Bishop da Cunha.” This will be especially true for this Sunday, Easter Sunday, the greatest and most joyful feast of the entire Church year.”