Beloved in the Lord, all-honorable fathers, dear brothers and sisters!
CHRIST IS RISEN!
With reverent joy in the Risen Savior, I warmly greet you and congratulate you on the Feast of feasts and the Triumph of triumphs—
THE BRIGHT RESURRECTION OF CHRIST!
Now the whole fullness of the Church, both heavenly and earthly, rejoices and glorifies the Lord, who has broken the power of death and granted the world eternal life. In the Resurrection of Christ is revealed the mystery of Divine love, by which “God so loved the world that He gave His Only-begotten Son” (John 3:16), that whoever believes in Him should have eternal life. Descending into the depths of Hades, the Lord Jesus Christ destroyed its bonds and led out those who awaited deliverance, opening for humanity the path to incorruption and immortality. Therefore, the Holy Church boldly proclaims: “O death, where is your sting? O Hades, where is your victory?” (1 Cor. 15:55), for the sufferings of Christ on the Cross became the beginning of victory, and His Resurrection—the triumph of life, light, and truth.
The Pascha of Christ is the foundation of our faith and the source of our saving hope: according to the Apostle, “if we died with Him, we shall also live with Him” (2 Tim. 2:11). In this lies the calling of every Christian—to die to sin and rise to new life, being renewed in the spirit of the mind and growing in love and godliness.
The light of Christ’s Resurrection continually illumines the Church and every believer, strengthening faith, confirming hope, and guiding us toward works of mercy and righteousness. This light dispels the darkness of doubt and sorrow, granting peace and quiet spiritual joy to those who trustingly follow the Risen Lord. In these holy and all-joyful days, I prayerfully wish that the light of Christ’s Resurrection may shine upon you all, strengthening both soul and body, confirming you in faith and love, and inspiring you to every good deed. May the grace of the Risen Christ abide with you all, granting strength of spirit, peace, and ineffable joy in the Lord, for “no one will take your joy from you” (John 16:22).
TRULY CHRIST IS RISEN!
+ Matthew
Bishop of Sourozh
Temporary Administrator of the Patriarchal Parishes
in the USA and Canada
Pascha of Christ, 2026
London