On the morning of Sunday, Mary Magdalene, a disciple of the Lord, frightened because of the Jews, for they were full of wrath, had not done at the Lord's sepulcher what women customarily do for their beloved dead.

2She took her friends with her and went to the sepulcher where he had been laid.

3They feared, however, being seen by the Jews and said: 'Since it was not possible for us to weep and lament on the day he was crucified, let us do so now at least at his sepulcher.'

4'But who will remove the stone that was placed at the door of the sepulcher, so that we may enter and sit beside him and do what is due? The stone is very large and we are afraid that someone may see us.'

5They went, then, and found the sepulcher open.

6At that moment they saw there a young man seated in the center of the tomb, beautiful and clothed in very white garments, who said to them: 'Why have you come? Whom do you seek?'

7'Perhaps him who was crucified? He has already risen and gone. If you do not wish to believe, come near and see the place where he lay.'

8'He is not here, for he has risen and gone to the place from where he was sent.'

9The women, terrified, fled.