Introduction and Thanks: His Holiness Pope Shenouda begins by congratulating those present on the Feast of the Resurrection of the Lord Jesus Christ and thanking the official guests, state representatives, party leaders, and people’s representatives for their attendance and for sharing the joy.

Centrality of the Resurrection: He explains that Christ’s resurrection is a unique event because He rose by Himself by the power of divine life, and His resurrection is eternal and glorified; He is the “firstfruit of the sleeping (the first of those asleep).”

Meaning of the Resurrection for Humanity: The resurrection gave humanity the pledge of resurrection and made it possible for human nature to have a glorified resurrection; thus it defeated the majesty of death and removed humanity’s dread of the end.

Practical Spiritual Results: As a result of the resurrection, people were attached to eternity, renounced worldly life, considered the earth a strangerhood and the heavenly city their home, which led some to asceticism, monasticism, and love of God.

Moral Values and Hope: The resurrection gives life value and hope after death, and pushes people to work for the hereafter and to commit to righteousness and virtue because life has an eternal continuation and because creation has an eschatological standard.

Comfort for the Dead and Their Families: The Church uses the joy of the resurrection to comfort families, and reads passages about the resurrection to affirm that the departed will attain the resurrection and eternal life.

Prayer for the World: His Holiness asks for prayers for countries affected by wars and drought, that the Lord grant peace and provision, and he specifically prays for Egypt, the president, and all humanity.

Call to Live by the Resurrection: He concludes with an exhortation to ask God for strength to live in His fear, mercy, and love, so that we may enjoy a joyful resurrection that qualifies us to enter the Kingdom and enjoy God in eternity.

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