The Ecumenical Council of Churches in Hungary and the Hungarian Catholic Bishops’ Conference issued a joint Easter message inviting Christians to celebrate life, in the light of the Ressurection, even in the shadow of the Pandemic.
Easter is an ancient celebration of the Christian world. Easter proclaims in churches, prayer halls and family homes that Jesus has risen, Christ is alive. It is spreading and hearing this good news that makes this holiday special, as Easter is a celebration of LIFE. And as a result, the days of Easter cannot vanish from our lives without a trace. Even once Easter is over, the fact of Jesus’ resurrection remains, with its consequences regarding every person’s life.
According to experts and based on our own personal experience, Easter 2021 is likely to be defined by a continued fight against the pandemic around the world. We need to be cautious, disciplined, flexible, and we should pay attention to one another. And yet, above all, we must recall the encouraging message of the Risen Christ:
“Do not be afraid. I am the First and the Last. I am the Living One; I was dead, and now look, I am alive for ever and ever! And I hold the keys of death and Hades” (Rev 1:17-18).
The fact of the resurrection underlines the significance of Jesus’ words: “Do not be afraid.” He reassures his disciples and Christians throughout history: “I live, you also will live.” (Jn 14:19). This life is the faith in the Resurrected Christ, the hope and love built on the foundation of resurrection. It provides hope to mourners, encouragement to the fearful, certainty to the wavering, and new hope to those looking to God. It is a new opportunity for everyone.
At Easter this year, let us hear in the gospel of life the inspiring words of Jesus: „Do not be afraid” (Mt 28:10)