The Bright Feast of the Resurrection of the Lord, also known as Easter, is the greatest and holiest celebration in the Orthodox Church. It is not merely a commemoration of a historical event, but the very foundation of our faith: the victory of Jesus Christ over death, a living testimony of God’s love for humankind. Through His death and Resurrection, the Savior has opened the way for all to salvation and eternal life.
The Holy Fathers spoke with great reverence about the Resurrection of the Lord. Saint John Chrysostom said:
“It is the day of Resurrection—let us be radiant, O people! It is the Pascha of the Lord, the Pascha! For from death to life, and from earth to heaven, Christ our God has brought us.” These words emphasize that Easter is not merely an outward celebration, but an inner transformation, a renewal of the soul.
Likewise, Saint Gregory of Nazianzus teaches us:
“Yesterday I was crucified with Him; today I am glorified with Him. Yesterday I died with Him; today I am raised with Him.” He thus calls us to participate spiritually in Christ’s Passion and victory—not merely as spectators, but as living members of His Church.
On the holy night of the Resurrection, the faithful all proclaim, “Christ is risen!”, receiving the response, “Truly He is risen!” This greeting is not merely a tradition, but a confession of faith—a declaration of hope in life after death.
The Holy Light from the Lord’s Tomb was distributed to the faithful, having been brought to the Republic of Moldova with the blessing of the Primate of the Orthodox Church of Moldova, His Eminence Metropolitan VLADIMIR. It was delivered by the official delegation of the Metropolis of Moldova, led by the Vicar Bishop, His Grace FILARET of Căpriana, and His Grace PATROCL of Dondușeni, vicar of the Diocese of Edineț and Briceni.
Near dawn, after the Divine Liturgy, His Grace, greeting the faithful with the traditional Paschal greeting, blessed their offerings.
CHRIST IS RISEN! TRULY HE IS RISEN!
Photo source: facebookApril 20, 2025