An empty tomb, confused disciples, and a grieving woman searching for her Lord. Diving into the Easter Gospel, Peter Walsh and John Kennedy explore how John’s Gospel frames the resurrection as the dawn of a new creation, how people then and now are looking for Jesus, and what is so important about recognizing Mary Magdalene as the first witness to the risen Christ. Plus, John shares his real-life story of a UFO sighting!

Questions for Further Discussion

Themes and Application

1. How does the idea of the resurrection as a “new creation” (a new Genesis week) reshape how we understand Easter beyond just a miracle story?
2. What do you make of the different ways the disciples “see” the empty tomb? Have you experienced moments where you saw something—but didn’t yet understand it?
3. How does Jesus being both “with the Father” and “with us” stretch or challenge your understanding of God’s presence?

Personal Reflection

1. When have you found yourself asking, “Where is Jesus?” What did that season feel like?
2. What does the moment where Jesus says “Do not hold on to me” stir in you? Is there something in your life you’re being invited to release?
3. Mary recognizes Jesus when he calls her by name. When have you felt personally “called” or known in your faith journey?

Broader Spiritual Considerations 

1. What does this passage suggest about the relationship between history and mystery in the Christian faith?
2. How do we hold together the uniqueness of Jesus with openness to truth and wisdom in other traditions?
3. How does the elevation of Mary Magdalene as the first witness challenge cultural or religious assumptions—both then and now?

Learn more about St. Mark's at https://www.stmarksnewcanaan.org