Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison has issued a message for Orthodox Easter, following last week's Catholic Easter, wishing well to all Orthodox Christians celebrating this week and noting the importance of finally being able to congregate in churches again.
"This year Easter will be especially joyous, as Christians of all denominations give thanks with open churches and full pews on this holiest of days. Again we can sing the joyous songs of our faith," said the Prime Minister in his message.
Notably, last Easter (2021) Scott Morrison, his wife Jenny Morrison and New South Wales Minister for Skills and Tertiary Education, Jeff Lee, attended Easter service at the Greek Orthodox Church of the Resurrection of the Christ in the Sydney suburb of Kogarah.
The service was led by Archbishop Makarios, who walked the Australian Prime Minister and his wife Jenny to the alter, where he was seated beside Dr Geoff Lee MP.
The Prime Minister also took part in the mass, lighting a candle.
Following the Anastasi (Resurrection) processions inside the church, Archbishop Makarios led the congregation to a podium outside, where over 1,000 Greek Orthodox faithful began sharing the Holy Fire.
Following is the full Easter 2022 message from the Australian Prime Minister:
Orthodox Easter 2022
Greetings to all Orthodox Christians who are celebrating Easter.
The meaning of Easter is found in three words: He is Risen!
It is the day when light triumphed over darkness and when Christians can declare “Where, O death, is your victory? Where O death is your sting?”
Like Christians everywhere, I see love expressed in the cross of Calvary and hope expressed in the empty tomb. This is the faith we share.
This year Easter will be especially joyous, as Christians of all denominations give thanks with open churches and full pews on this holiest of days. Again we can sing the joyous songs of our faith.
This Easter is a day of joy – and one where we give thanks for all our blessings.
May Orthodox Christians across Australia experience the Risen Christ’s presence and peace this Resurrection Sunday!
The Hon Scott Morrison MP
Prime Minister of Australia
Australian Prime Minister Attends Greek Orthodox Easter Service, Kogarah NSW
