HIS EMINENCE METROPOLITAN NICOLAE
The Romanian Orthodox Metropolia of the Americas
Liaison to IOCC from the Assembly of Canonical Orthodox Bishops of the United States
As we embark on the journey of Holy Week—a journey within a journey—we begin by hearing the jubilant shouts of “Hosanna!” as Our Lord makes His entrance into Jerusalem. And as we come to the end, on the night of Holy Pascha, our voices join in the triumphant cry—“Christ is Risen!” We often think of Holy Week as a week of darkness, a time of intense fasting and prayer, but it is worth remembering that it begins and ends with great joy and celebration.
Between these moments, we take part in all the critical moments leading to the Lord’s Passion. His offering the Eucharist to His disciples at the Last Supper, His agony in the Garden of Gethsemane, His betrayal at the hands of Judas, His inquisition and torture, and finally His glorious ascent of the Cross. But this ascent is also a descent, a descent through all the fallen depths of mankind. Misunderstanding leads to abandonment, abandonment leads to betrayal, betrayal gives way to hatred, and hatred to viciousness and a brutal death.
But Christ has the last word. Through every trial, He demonstrates the perfect love and perfect grace of the God-man. In His suffering, He blesses, and “By His wounds, we are healed” (Isaiah 53:5).
So let us take heart! The Lord, Christ our God, is always with us, in joy and in sorrow. I offer my blessings to you and your loved ones during this Paschal season, trusting it will be one of great peace. “Christ is Risen!”
Please consider supporting IOCC’s work through almsgiving as we make the journey towards Pascha together. Donate now.
