Archbishop Elpidophoros, Archbishop of America, sent his own message for Easter.
Mr. Elpidophoros in his message says, among other things, that “on this Holy Day let us promise to live forever in the bright light of this victory, protecting life in every way, accepting others as they are, offering our own lives for the strengthening and relief of those around us, showing not only that we believe in the Resurrection of our Lord, but that we live constantly in this truth, evangelizing the love and joy that this day gives birth to.”
His message in detail:
“Dear Christians, Christ is risen. On this day, a day of joy and rejoicing for the great feast of the Holy Easter of our Lord Jesus Christ, let us turn our eyes with love to our brothers and sisters with whom we have passed together through the stage of fasting, the drama of Holy Week and the glorious joy of the Resurrection.
We are one big family in Christ Resurrection. His blood was shed for us on the cross and that same blood flows through our spiritual veins, uniting us to Him beyond the national origin of each of us. Our church communities and Christians join together on this extraordinary day to celebrate the absolute and complete victory of life over death, the victory of love over hate.
On this holy day, let us pledge to live forever in the bright light of this victory, protecting life in every way, accepting others as they are, offering our own lives to help and comfort those around us, showing not only that we believe in the resurrection of our Lord, but that we live continually in this truth, evangelizing the love and joy that this day brings.
We leave behind any bitterness or difficulty we have with anyone. All is forgiven in the Resurrection, because God’s love is stronger than anything, even death. So, with the strength and peace that the light of love gives us, let us triumphantly proclaim ”Christ risen from the dead, having conquered death and given life to those in memory”. He is risen indeed.”
