The morning after

The day after Jesus' death is a day of utter desolation for his companions. They know nothing of Easter, only of his death. What does this mean? What now?

O GOD, Creator of heaven and earth: Grant that, as the crucified body of your dear Son was laid in the tomb and rested on this holy Sabbath, so we may await with him the coming of the third day, and rise with him to newness of life; who now lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

Michael D. O'Brien is a controversial, conservative Catholic Canadian artist, novelist and essayist.