Beloved in the Lord,
"This is the day of Resurrection, let
us be radiant, O people; Pascha, the Lord's Pascha. For Christ our God
has passed us from death into life and from earth to heaven, we who
sing the song of victory."
Ode I from the Orthros of Holy Pascha
It is, indeed, a time for celebration and rejoicing for we have seen
the Lord's Resurrection, we have seen Him conquer death, and we now
have hope for eternal life! The joy of the Paschal Season is
incomparable to any other throughout the year. People's hearts are
uplifted, the light of the Resurrection illumines their souls, and the
joyful proclamation of "Christ is Risen" resounds in our churches and homes.
But, are we living the Resurrection? Are we truly taking the message of
salvation beyond the celebration of Pascha and transporting it into our
daily lives? This is the challenge presented to us by our Lord, to "live the Resurrection" in all that we do throughout the year; to carry this joyous message every day, and proclaim that Jesus is Lord.
To "live the Resurrection" means to walk with Christ. To "live the Resurrection"
means to serve others as Christ commanded. The Metropolis of San
Francisco, through a multitude of programs and ministries, is committed
to living the Resurrection by providing support for our parishes and
faithful throughout the year. Innovative programs in religious
education, spiritual renewal, marriage and family enrichment and youth
ministry are growing, but your support is vital to their sustenance and
expansion.
I invite you to "live the Resurrection"
with us and offer your support for the work of our Metropolis. Please
accept my paternal blessings, love, and gratitude for your
participation in our sacred mission.
May we live the Resurrection of Christ in all that we do and may His love fill our hearts and world with joy and peace!
Christ is Risen! Truly He is Risen!
With Love in Our Risen Lord,
+Metropolitan Gerasimos of
San Francisco
4th Thursday after Pascha
