On the night of April 19–20, 2025, Patriarch Kirill of Moscow and All Russia presided over the solemn Paschal services at the Cathedral of Christ the Savior in Moscow. The celebration included the Midnight Office, a procession, the Paschal Matins, and the Divine Liturgy of St. John Chrysostom.
Concelebrating were senior hierarchs and clergy of the Russian Orthodox Church. Among the many notable attendees were Russian President Vladimir Putin, Moscow Mayor Sergey Sobyanin, and numerous political, religious, and cultural figures.
As per tradition, the Holy Light from the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem was brought to the cathedral. It was handed to Patriarch Kirill by Vladimir Yakunin, head of the Andrew the First-Called Foundation. The Patriarch used the flame to light candles for the clergy and faithful.
The service was broadcast live on major Russian television channels and online, including sign language interpretation. Before the service, the Patriarch offered televised Easter greetings.
During the Matins, the Patriarch read the Catechetical Homily of St. John Chrysostom. The Paschal Gospel (John 1:1–17) was read in 11 languages, beginning in Greek and Latin. Special petitions were offered during the litany, and a prayer was said for Holy Rus.
After Communion, the Patriarch blessed the artos (Paschal bread) and concluded the service with greetings of joy and hope in the Resurrection.
The atmosphere was one of deep faith, tradition, and national unity, as the Russian Orthodox Church marked the most significant feast of the Christian year.
Source: Patriarchate of Moscow
Photos: foto.patriarchia.ru
