Reflect on the significance of the empty tomb and the cross in Easter Sunday's Gospel, and find spiritual inspiration by visiting cemeteries to honor loved ones and celebrate eternal life.
Today's Gospel: John 20:1-9
The cross is central to Good Friday.
The empty tomb is central to Easter Sunday.
Both images are so important for our faith and belief as Christians. The cross signifies that we are redeemed and forgiven. The empty tomb promises us eternal life.
I think it is so important to note that Mary Magdalene is going to the tomb early that morning. Some people might think I’m odd and crazy, but I love visiting cemeteries to find the graves of family members, friends, or fellow priests. Some of my best prayer experiences have been strolling through a cemetery praying the Rosary.
Why did Mary Magdalene go to the tomb? As we hear in other accounts, one probable reason was to anoint the body of Jesus. Another reason could be that she was searching for the one she loved and the one who loved her. She wanted to be near Jesus even if He was in the tomb.
For the same reason, we visit the graves of loved ones—because we want to be close to them, remember their words or stories, and hear their voice again. It is an act of love we undertake for the people we loved, and to pray for the dead is a spiritual work of mercy.
Visiting a cemetery is a reminder to us that death doesn’t have the final word, that there is eternal life, and one day we all will rise in the final resurrection of the body. Where the world sees death in a cemetery, we see life because of Easter Sunday. The next time you see a cemetery as you drive, let it serve as a powerful reminder of the cross and the empty tomb, of the faith and hope we have in Jesus Christ.
Ponder:
What has your experience been of visiting a cemetery?
Pray:
Jesus, I love You, and I believe that You have risen from the dead. Comfort those who grieve and mourn with the hope that comes from the empty tomb.
Pray Together:
On your way home from Easter Mass, look for a cemetery, and once you find one, pause and say a prayer for those who have died, and for all who still grieve them.
Copyright 2026 Fr. Edward Looney
Fr. Edward Looney is a priest of the Diocese of Green Bay, a Marian theologian, author, and podcaster. He has a presence on many of the popular social media platforms (@FrEdwardLooney).
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