REJOICE! HE IS RISEN! – Photo shows an inspiring statue of the Risen Christ in Barangay Banquerohan in Legazpi City, Albay. Millions of Roman Catholics celebrate Christ’s triumphant resurrection on Easter Sunday. (MARK ALVIC ESPLANA)
MANILA, Philippines — Manila Archbishop Jose Advincula on Sunday underscored the significance of of Easter Sunday and how it could help the people open their minds and hearts to embrace conversion, compassion and the reorganization of local Churches.
Advincula said Easter Sunday marks the “very foundation” of the Catholic faith, igniting and inspiring the faithful’s desired renewal for the Archdiocese of Manila.
“He is the ‘Risen Nazareno’ who waits for us in the streets of our parishes. He is the ‘Risen Nazareno’ who wants to lead us to a new life, to transformation and conversion,” said Advincula.
“May the Resurrection of Christ open our hearts and minds to the needed reforms and reorganizations in our local Church with eagerness and joy,” he added.
The belief in the resurrection of Christ, Advincula said, would also allow the faithful embrace change in their lives, by creating more compassionate relationships and building the courage to fight oppression.
“Easter will transform each one of us and lead us to conversion. If the resurrection of Christ is something we truly and personally believe, then it will change the manner [in which] we live our lives,” said Advincula in a statement.
“There would be more compassionate and forgiving relationships, greater energy, boundless creativity, perseverance in mission, resolute courage to face evil and fight oppression, and confidence in times of trial. There would be more reasons to follow Christ, bear his cross, and share his good news with others,” he added.
Easter Sunday is the culmination of Holy Week that celebrates the triumphant resurrection of Jesus Christ three days after he was crucified by the Romans and died on the cross.