In his Easter message, Patriarch Daniel of Romania emphasised that the joy of the Resurrection is fulfilled through love, good deeds, and prayer for one’s neighbour and for world peace.
“The Feast of the Resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ calls us to manifest joy, peace, and brotherly love, as well as acts of kindness, within our families and in society. Let us help the poor and lonely, and pray for those who suffer, as well as for Romanians living among strangers!”
In particular, let us pray for peace and understanding among nations!” the Patriarch noted.
Read below Patriarch Daniel’s message:
Let us show the joy of the Resurrection and pray for peace in the world!
The Feast of the Resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ is the most important celebration in the Church because Christ’s resurrection marks the beginning of the resurrection of all humanity and is the ultimate victory of life over death. For this reason, the Orthodox Creed concludes with this confession: “I look for the resurrection of the dead and the life of the age to come.”
The resurrection of Christ does not signify a return to earthly human life, which is characterised by suffering and the fear of death; rather, it signifies the transition of human beings into another life — eternal heavenly life. Therefore, on Pascha night, the Orthodox Church chants: “Today we celebrate the death of death and the beginning of eternal life.”
The first words spoken by our Lord Jesus Christ on the morning of His resurrection were addressed to the Myrrh-bearing women: “Rejoice! Do not be afraid!” On the evening of His Resurrection, He spoke to His disciples, saying: “Peace be with you!” Therefore, Holy Pascha is a feast of joy and peace, forgiveness and communion within families, communities, nations, and the whole world.
The Feast of the Resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ calls on us to spread joy, peace, and brotherly love, and to perform kind acts for our families and communities. Let us support the disadvantaged and lonely, and pray for those who are suffering, including Romanians living abroad! Above all, let us pray for peace and understanding between nations.
On this Holy Pascha occasion, we extend our heartfelt wishes for peace, joy, health, and happiness to all, together with the Paschal greeting: Christ is risen! Truly He is risen!
DANIEL,
Patriarch of the Romanian Orthodox Church
Photo: Ziarul Lumina
Source: basilica.ro
