Patr. Theophilos Delivers Paschal Message in Jerusalem
Patr. Theophilos calls on the faithful to witness the Resurrection as a living reality in the Holy Land.
JERUSALEM — Patr. Theophilos III of Jerusalem delivered a Paschal message Thursday, emphasizing the living reality of Christ’s Resurrection and urging the faithful to remain steadfast amid modern trials. Speaking to worshippers at the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, he said, “The Church of Jerusalem, together with her pious flock, constitutes the unfailing and living witness to the mystery of the Resurrection, that is to say, to the fulfilment of the Divine Providence. She ceaselessly hearkens unto the Lord’s command: 'Lo, I am with you alway' . . . not as a memory of some past reality, but as a living and active presence, transcending times and seasons, human limitations, and the laws of nature.”
The Patriarch reflected on the spiritual significance of Easter, quoting Scripture: “According to the Apostle Paul, ‘Christ is risen from the dead’ . . . it subsists as a living and active reality, grounded in the mystical power of the Cross . . . ‘that we also should walk in newness of life.’”
He also encouraged believers in Israel, Palestine, Jordan, and Qatar to remain in the Holy Land despite challenges. “Heeding also the words of the Lord: ‘Fear not, little flock’ . . . so that the saying of St. John of Damascus may be fulfilled: ‘Lift up thine eyes round about, O Jerusalem, and behold; for behold, thy children come unto thee . . . hymning Christ Who is risen unto the ages,’” the Patriarch urged.
Previously, the UOJ reported that Patr. Theophilos hailed the ceasefire as having offered hope for lasting peace in the Holy Land.
