Russian Orthodox Church Protection of Mother of God
Russian Orthodox Church • Patriarchial Parishes in Canada

Beloved in the Lord, all-honorable Fathers,
dear brothers and sisters!
CHRIST IS RISEN!

With reverent joy in the Risen Savior, I greet you and congratulate you on the Feast of Feasts and the Triumph of Triumphs –
THE BRIGHT RESURRECTION OF CHRIST!

Today, the entire Church, both heavenly and earthly, rejoices and glorifies the Lord, Who has crushed the power of death and granted the world eternal life.

The Resurrection of Christ reveals the mystery of Divine love, with which “God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten Son” (John 3:16), so that everyone who believes in Him might have eternal life.

Having descended into the depths of hell, the Lord Jesus Christ destroyed its bonds and brought forth those who awaited deliverance, opening the way to incorruptibility and immortality. Therefore, the Holy Church boldly proclaims: “O death, where is thy sting? O hell, where is thy victory?” (1 Cor. 15:55), for the Savior’s Passion on the Cross became the beginning of victory, and His Resurrection the triumph of life, light, and truth.

Christ’s Passover is the foundation of our faith and the source of our saving hope: in the words of the Apostle, “If we have died with Him, we shall also live with Him” (2 Tim. 2:11). This is the calling of every Christian—to die to sin and rise to new life, renewed in spirit and growing in love and piety.

The light of Christ’s Resurrection continually illuminates the Church and every believer, strengthening them in faith, confirming them in hope, and guiding them to deeds of mercy and truth. This light dispels the darkness of doubt and sorrow, bestowing peace and quiet spiritual joy upon those who faithfully follow the Risen Lord.

On these holy and joyful days, I prayerfully wish for all of you that the light of Christ’s Resurrection will illuminate you, strengthening your spiritual and physical strength, 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 fortitude, peace, and unspeakable joy in the Lord, for “your joy no one takes from you” (John 16:22).

TRULY, CHRIST IS RISEN!

+ Matthew
Bishop of Sourozh

Temporary Administrator of the Patriarchal Parishes in the USA and Canada
Easter, 2026
London