O Christ, O Savior, in heaven the angels sing Your Resurrection.
And on earth we unworthy ones with pure hearts glorify You!

CHRIST IS RISEN!   HRISTOS A INVIAT!

Each year, hundreds of millions of Orthodox Christians gather in our churches, which, in the darkness of the night, represent Our Lord’s empty Tomb.  The Holy Light is brought from the Altar and we are invited to “Come, take the Light which does not fade, and Glorify Christ risen from the dead!”  That single light is passed from one to another, until the symbolic tomb is aglow with warm, brilliant light.

As young people and faithful members of our Church, we must be strong in our Faith, and not be afraid to share it and help it grow.  Support our parishes and do what you can to strengthen our union with each other, our beloved Vatra Românească, and our history.  At the same time, dedicate yourselves to our organization by reaching out to those who as yet have not been able to experience it.  This holds true for those in newer communities or churches currently without chapters, as well as for those individuals who may be new or not as active in existing parishes.  We must not be content with just “taking” the light, but rather, use it to illumine our own souls, and share it so that those around us may experience that same joy.  We cannot wait for someone else to bring this light to it, but rather let it shine through our actions.  Now is the time, as we do not know how many more opportunities we may have.

With our National Board, I pray for each of you, and ask for your prayers so that we may be brought closer together.  May the peace and joy of Our Lord’s Glorious Resurrection, radiate from within each of our hearts and souls as we celebrate this season.

TRULY, HE IS RISEN!  ADEVARAT A INVIAT!

With love and best wishes,

  
John E. Lazar
38th National A.R.O.Y. President